The Bend Gelato Shop with a Tasting Flight That Will Make You Want to Try Every Single Flavor

Bonta Gelato in Bend, Oregon, has a line out the door, and for good reason. This shop's gelato is creamy, flavorful, and delicious, and comes in a wide range of bright flavors from caramel to mango. But best of all, the shop offers a tasting flight of six generous scoops so you can taste many of them at once. It is perfect for sharing or special occasions.

On a recent visit to Bend, I kept noticing people holding small cups of gelato—walking down the street, in the lobby of my hotel, and walking out of the Bonta Gelato shop. Finally, I decided I had to try it, too.

Bonta Gelato is a beloved gelato chain here in Oregon, attracting hungry locals and tourists for a fresh scoop daily. The chain has six locations—four in Bend, one in Redmond, and one in Portland—so there are ample opportunities to try it for yourself, no matter where in the state you're coming from.

When I walked into this adorably charming store, I noticed a sign for a gelato tasting flight. With the flight, I could pick six flavors rather than two—no need to spend time deciding which flavor to get! Of course, a traditional scoop or two of handcrafted, artisan gelato is perfectly wonderful, but a tasting flight is an exciting culinary experience.

It was hard to narrow down the options, but I settled on a range of fruity and chocolatey flavors. Each one was more delicious than the next! Not only are the scoops rich, sweet, and smooth, but the presentation can't be beat. I can't wait to go back for another round next time I'm in Bend.

Some of the more classic and popular flavors include Dulce de Leche, salted vanilla and chocolate, and stracciatella—a vanilla base with rich chocolately pieces blended throughout. The shop even offers vegan flavors, meaning dairy-free folks can join in on the fun!

Can't make it to the in-person shops? No problem: Bonta Gelato now sells pints at major grocers like Albertsons, and local Oregon establishments like Market of Choice and Newport Avenue Market. Imagine curling up to watch a movie with a pint of this deliciousness in hand.

Overall, if you have a sweet tooth, I highly suggest visiting this charming hidden gem in Oregon. For more information on hours, location, and available flavors, check out the Bonta Gelato website. You'll get updated on the seasonal flavors, too!

If your visit to Bend is part of a road trip, you may want to stock up on car-friendly snacks for the drive there—but save room for the delicious gelato. While you're in the area, stop by Rosemary and Fox on NW Lava Road, or Dear Irene on NW Brooks Street, for mouthwatering meals and cocktails.

Need a place to stay? Check out these seven trending vacation rentals in Oregon that folks book over and over again.