Lovelight welcomed in summer with Sandra Foti of Piccolina Gelateria in Hawthorn, providing an awning to the façade in the 1960s Italianstyle of the business. We caught up with Sandra afterwards to hear the full Piccolina story over ‘Better Than Nutella’ flavoured gelato.

The idea of owning a traditional gelateria precipitated for Sandra in childhood. She would prepare gelato with her father and wonder why they could not find anything so natural in the shops! The dream resurfaced in 2014 when Sandra travelled to Tuscany and met with an Italian pastry chef who taught her the traditional technique of making gelato.

In the months leading up to official opening, Sandra worked meticulously to produce her own branding (possibly the former graphic designer’s best ever brief!) and collaborated with interior designers Hecker Guthrie to create a distinctly vintage Italian-inspired look for Piccolina.

Sandra began crafting the first flavours of gelato and granita on site, using strictly local seasonal produce, and skipping on artificial flavours and colours and preservatives entirely. With mango, lemon, pistachio, peanut butter and chocolate brownie gelato, as well as watermelon, lime and mint-flavoured granita, picking a favourite would prove a challenge for Sandra. She has however discovered a favourite part of the process: roasting fresh nuts and having the aroma waft throughout the gelateria.

Just a few months into service, the Piccolina dream has transpired into thousands of satiated customers and a very proud Sandra. Her enthusiasm and commitment to design process is testament to her success. We are excited to have been a part of this story and wish Sandra ongoing momentum with her delicious and natural treats! Skip on down to 802 Glenferrie Road Hawthorn to have your ‘-37 degrees gelato in 30+ degree temperature’ mouth-watering experience today.