Places I like

Do you like gelato? Do you live in Phoenix? If so, you've got to get to The Gelato Spot (www.gelatospot.com). This occupies space next to one of the all-too-numerous "trendy" coffee bars that have spread fungus-like across the Valley, but don't hold that against them. It's at 3164 East Camelback Road, just west of 32nd Street, in the Safeway plaza. This is the same plaza that Molina Fine Jewelers is in, so be careful where you park and walk (Molina employs conspicuously armed guards).

But I digress. The gelato is fantastic. It's offered in cones and cups, to-go or to eat there. There are tables inside and out, but there's always a crowd. It's open late most nights (11PM). It's all made right there, and as quickly as it's eaten, you're always assured of getting a fresh batch. There's a ton of flavors, from the traditional to the Americanized. The folks behind the counter are connoisseurs, but aren't snooty about it. They're into gelato, and want you to enjoy it, too. To that end, there are baskets full of sample spoons that they employ to generously dole out samples. If you aren't familiar with a flavor, just ask and a sample will be cheerfully provided. If you're shy, just gaze at it for a bit, and you'll be asked if you'd like a sample.

The verdict: the perfect spot for folks that like gelato, or have never tried it