MARIO’S ITALIAN LEMONADE

Dessert Shop – Little Italy.

Flavor Scale (1-5): 3.8

There’s a beloved tradition in Chicago that signals the start of summer: the opening of the city’s most popular Italian ice shop every May 1st. As newbies to this seasonal treat, my friend and I decided to check it out during the first week of May. Apparently, it’s a rite of passage for Chicagoans, so we decided to see what all the fuss was about.

When we arrived, there was a long line of eager customers but thankfully, the line moved quickly. The shop has a variety of flavors, and the best part? You can mix up to two flavors! I went for a blend of Blue Raspberry and Watermelon, while my friend got the POG (Passionfruit, Orange, and Guava). The Italian ice was flavorful, refreshingly cold, and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. What really stood out was the presence of actual fruit in the mix. Definitely the perfect way to cool down on a hot day.

If you’re in Chicago and haven’t tried this iconic Italian ice shop yet, make sure to add it to your list. It’s a tasty way to welcome the warmer weather and enjoy a local gem. Plus, with so many flavors to choose from, there’s always a reason to go back for more!