Jannettas Gelateria on South Street in St Andrews has been serving traditional Italian gelato to the Fife seaside town since 1908, making it a family-run favourite for 118 years. With around 50 flavours of gelato and sorbet to choose from, deciding what to order can be the hardest part of a visit.
A family tradition since 1908
The business dates back to the 1890s, when the Jannetta family left Atina, a small village in Italy's Lazio region, and moved to Scotland's north-east coast. Bennett Jannetta, Antonia Rosa and their four children brought their knowledge of traditional gelato and sorbet making with them. The family opened their shop at 31 South Street in St Andrews in 1908, and it remains at the same address today, with the craft passed down through five generations.
According to the family, the gelato is still made in the same building, with traditional methods remaining at the heart of what they do. The ingredients bring together the best of both countries, with Scottish dairy and berries sourced from growers in Fife sitting alongside ingredients brought over from Italy.
A taste of Italy in St Andrews
During a recent weekend away in St Andrews, a visit to the shop made it easy to see why it continues to attract a steady stream of customers. Six different flavours were tried, including tiramisu, raspberry ripple, tayberry sorbet, banoffee, wild cherry and white chocolate and raspberry. There was something for everyone, from fruity and refreshing sorbet to sweeter, more indulgent gelatos.
Despite the number of people coming through the door, the service was quick and friendly. When struggling to settle on choices, a member of staff was happy to offer suggestions, which made the experience all the more enjoyable.
A familiar part of St Andrews
The combination of flavours and history has helped the shop become a familiar part of St Andrews, welcoming everyone from students and residents to tourists exploring the town. For anyone planning a day trip or a weekend away, Jannettas is an easy addition to the itinerary, whether you fancy a classic flavour or want to try something a little different. After 118 years, five generations and countless scoops, the shop is still serving up a little taste of Italy in Scotland.
