Arlequin Gelati & César Milano

Roberto Francia is not Niçois by birth, but he has become Niçois at heart. Arriving from Milan in 2006 with his transalpine master glacier expertise, this passionate artisan opened Arlequin Gelati at 9 avenue Malausséna, steps from the Libération market. In 2014, the profession awarded him the highest national distinction: France's No.1 artisan glacier. A title that says everything about Roberto's standard of rigour.

What sets Arlequin apart from all others is first the ingredient philosophy: fresh alpine milk, Italian panna, Piedmont hazelnuts, Bronte pistachios (the world's finest, from the slopes of Etna in Sicily), 70% Santo Domingo dark chocolate, Guérande sea salt. Premium ingredients that Roberto personally selects, accepting to pay the price of excellence. The menu changes weekly by availability and season — a rotation that obliges loyal customers to return regularly.

Signature Flavours

The Divine — fior di latte, hazelnut, white chocolate ganache and pistachio — is Arlequin's emblematic creation, the one clients return specifically for. César and Max are the other star flavours. The range includes Christmas ice cream logs by order (stracciatella-mango, pistachio-mango). Roberto also offers tasting before ordering — a generous practice that wins him constant praise.

César Milano

Arlequin's little brother, at 43 avenue Jean Médecin, offers the same menu enriched with a few exclusive creations. More central, it attracts passing customers on Nice's main artery.

Pricing

Scoop from €2.50. 2-scoop cone €4.50. Christmas log on order.

Guest Reviews

Highlights: Arlequin generates lyrical reviews — visitors who cross all of Nice to return, regulars since the 2006 opening, foreigners who make Arlequin their first stop on every Nice return. Roberto's generosity (flavour tasting, generous portions) is consistently mentioned. The Divine is cited as the finest ice cream flavour ever tasted by many visitors.

Areas for improvement: Avenue Malausséna location is slightly off the tourist circuit — a detour is needed. Some recent reviews mention less attentive service from certain employees (not Roberto himself). The 30-flavour rotating menu, though excellent, is less vast than Fenocchio's.

Overall: Arlequin is Nice's absolute excellence glacier — the one connoisseurs choose for the finest ingredients and most memorable flavours. An imperative detour for serious enthusiasts.