If I were still in college, Zia’s Cafe & Gelato Bar would be my go-to sweet spot.

Walking in on a hot day is refreshing; several flavors of gelato—which is Italian for frozen— tempt you while music plays softly in the background. The menu offers a variety of pastries and drinks, as well as savory snacks and small plates. My mind was set on a bowl of gelato, but as I walked up to the counter, a small sign for an Amaretti Cookie Sandwich caught my eye (and appetite!). I ordered one with Tiramisu Gelato for the center, along with an Iced Chai Tea Latte to wash it down. My friends each ordered a small cup of gelato with two flavors, one of the more interesting being Chili Mango. We headed to the rear of the restaurant and sat at a cozy nook of couches nestled around a coffee table while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Our food’s presentation was impressive: My friends’ gelato arrived in petite silver bowls, the latte in a large clear mug, and the cookie sandwich on a colorful plate. The combination of the rich, creamy tiramisu gelato with the slightly crispy amaretti cookie was ingenious—it definitely left a mark on my palate. I foresee many return trips to Zia’s this summer!

Zia’s Cafe & Gelato Bar - El Dorado Hills, CA

— Jazmin White