Ferrante's Marketplace Cafe - Dessert First

Someday my prince will come.   
Until then,
I'll be charmed by 
Ferrante's Marketplace Café

Photo Credit: Ferrante's

Life is short, so let's begin with dessert.  On these warm summer days, I suggest Gelato!  As you may know, Gelato is Italian for ice cream and available at Ferrante's Marketplace Cafe atop Spokane's South Hill. The word Gelato is derived from the Latin word "gelātus." (meaning frozen). Gelato is made with milk, cream, various sugars, and flavoring such as fresh fruit and nut purees. I find it's not as creamy as traditional ice cream and that the flavors are much more intense. Although the flavors change from time to time, I happily discovered a wino bonus;  

BLUEBERRY MERLOT GELATO! 
Blueberry Merlot Gelato! Photo Credit: SIP

And yes, you can taste the Merlot. It's magnificent and perfect for Spokane summers. Ferrante's also carry a delicious VERY BERRY ZINFANDEL flavor.  So here's your SIP TIP: The Gelato delivery day is Tuesdays. You can call ahead and they'll order you a pint or better yet a tub (30 servings), invite some friends (hint hint) over for a chilled Merlot or Zin on the patio.

Photo Credit: Ferrante's
As if that wasn't reason enough to go, Ferrante's is also one of my favorite restaurants for tasteful, yet casual dining.  It really is charming; Café tables, warm paint colors and sidewalk patio dining. There's a delightful gift shop with a unique selection of truly special finds. You know, the "one for you, one for me" kind of gift buying.  This has become my go to place for gifts.

Here's the second wino bonus; Ferrante's may have the least expensive wine-by-glass prices around. (Maybe don't tell them that). Expect a very nice selection of local, regional and Italian wines, which are also available to purchase and take home.

Dine in or get gourmet-take-away and eat for at home or for a impromptu picnic in Manito Park. The menu is simple, classic Italian. Ferrante's specialties are perfect hand-tossed thin crust pizzas, just-right baked calzones, pastas served with Tuscan bread, creative salads and of course, the Italian street-side quality Gelato. Ferrante's uses the freshest ingredients available and that's a difference you can taste. When you arrive, you're at an unimpressive strip-mall but don't turn back, as you'll be charmed to make their acquaintance.


If you've experienced Ferrante's then you know what I'm talking about. If not, get there already, as you are truly missing out. 

Photo Credit: Spokane7
Ferrante's is located on the South Hill at 4516 South Regal Street, Spokane, WA 99223 509.443.6304 http://www.doitalian.com/

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