Global chocolate and gelato brand opens first Long Island store

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An internationally known chocolate and gelato maker has opened its first Long Island location. 

Venchi, a 145-year-old Italian brand, just opened an 880-square-foot Chocogelateria at the Roosevelt Field mall in Garden City. The new shop is located on the main level across from the Apple store. 

More than 50 varieties of Venchi chocolates, which are made in Italy, are on display in the Roosevelt Field boutique, where customers can create their own chocolate assortment. Venchi also offers a selection of boxed chocolates. The brand’s chocolates contain noble fats such as olive oil and cocoa butter, are gluten-free, and some are vegan friendly, according to the company. 

Venchi gelato is made fresh daily in the store using natural ingredients in traditional Italian recipes. Gelato is offered in 24 flavors daily and can be put in a cup or cone featuring a rim of Venchi’s hazelnut and chocolate spread dipped in a choice of grains. The gelato can also be blended into a signature shake. 

Other offerings include Italian coffees, hot chocolate and crepes made with the brand’s Piedmont hazelnut and chocolate spread dispensed from a chocolate fountain. 

Venchi’s history dates back to 1878 when Silviano Venchi, a 20-year-old from Turin, used two bronze cauldrons to experiment with chocolate, according to the company. The brand has more than 350 chocolate recipes and 90 gelato flavors. It is sold in more than 70 countries and more than 180 boutiques in cities including London, Hong Kong, Dubai, New York, Berlin, Shanghai and Tokyo.