Fontana Gelato, Naha

Kokusai Dori gelato that might be the best in Naha

Normally a place like Fontana Gelato would stand out for its blaze of color (this place would fit right into Harajuku) but given that this gelato shop in Naha is located in the thick of things on Kokusai Dori, the colors don’t stand out as much. Still, the tasty looking scoops on show were enough to attract the attention of this expat travelling in Okinawa. The gelato at Fontana is made on site on the second floor of this petite establishment. At the time of visiting I spotted at least 16 very moreish looking flavors from the suitably tropical (mango, pineapple, Okinawan lemon, dragon fruit), through the weird (Rainbow Milk), to the staple (Chocolate). There are also seasonal offerings and I think I spotted the Okinawa staple, Beni-Imo (sweet potato). I went with the Okinawa Lemon as I have a penchant for all things sour - it delivered! Orders are made at the small streetside counter and hesitant English was spoken by the kindly young staff working at the time. Gelato are labelled in English and Japanese and there’s a sweet hand-written sign explaining how to order. It’s a simple enough process though - single or double, cone or cup - but the sentiment was appreciated. Singles at Fontana Gelato are 380 yen, doubles 430 yen. There’s a small bench where you can sit and lick but most people here take their pictures (the lineup of gelato is a popular photo op), order, and eat on the go. Staff didn’t seem to mind photos being taken although it probably helps if you’re ordering something. Given the sweaty climate in Naha gelato is a bit of a no-brainer and the gelato, though I’m no expert, at Fontana looks the part if nothing else but judging from its popularity it could be the best in Naha. A recommended stop for a cooling bite as you stroll around Kokusai Dori, I’d say. Fontana Gelato is at the northeast end of Kokusai Dori about 200 m from Makishi station. Hours: 10:00 - 21:30