Our Coffee

Authentic Italian Coffee & Espresso

A hand holding a plastic cup of coffee or iced beverage with a green logo of Gelato 101, against a backdrop of an ocean with waves and a clear blue sky in Encinitas, California.

When unsurpassed quality is combined with mastery of technique, hospitality at its best, and passion for authentic espresso preparation and presentation, the result is perfection in the cup-a multi-sensory experience that can only be described as art.

illy recognizes the elite cafés where this high standard is achieved with the designation Artisti del Gusto (Artists of Taste), and invites you to enjoy the ultimate Italian espresso experience at an Artisti del Gusto café" GELATO 101 is proud to be has designated as an "Artisti del Gusto" café!

White stylized hand logo on a red background.
Signature logo reading 'Artistel Gusto' in black cursive handwriting.
A white coffee cup with the illy logo, filled with black coffee, on a matching saucer surrounded by scattered coffee beans on a wooden surface.

illy Espresso

Based in Trieste, Italy, illy has been "seeking perfection" since its inception in 1933. This search has led them to become a world renowned and authoritative figure in the coffee industry. Consisting of pure Arabica beans, illy espresso is silky, smooth and consistent. We love working with illy for its great vision and high values, but what we really find irresistible is illy's flavor, fine color and the way it can make hours pass like moments. Stop in to one of our locations and you'll see what we mean.

Gelato 101 Locations

A gift card with a green background displaying the logo and text for Gelato 101, placed over a background of ice cream decorated with cookies and sprinkles.

Give the the gift of Authentic Gelato, Italian Coffee, and more!

Full Service Catering

A tray of panna cotta garnished with fresh mint and lime slices on a wooden table, with a blue neon sign and a framed picture in the background.

Add a little extra flavor to your next party or event with a Gelato display of your favorite flavors!

Testimonials Widget

“Wow! This place is awesome for rich, amazing gelato. Try the opera- it’s hazelnut and a mix of pine nuts and pistachios. Love also that they have a little indoor space to eat your ice cream and vine with friends, in addition to the patio”

- Daja Phillips, Google Local Guide

“Best gelato ever!

Generous size also. So creamy, you’ll go back for more. Flavors were very natural tasting and well prepared!”

- Patricia, Tripadvisor

“We love Gelato 101!!

They offer amazing flavors and they are so fresh and tasty. It is a small shop, but they do have an outdoor patio with sitting. I feel like I am back in Italy when I have their gelato. They make the gelato daily and use the best ingredients. They are very friendly. It is a family-owned business. We will be back!!”

- Serene E. Yelp Elite

“WOW, one of my top favorite gelato shops!

The customer service here was great. They let you sample. I got the pistachio and hazelnut in the small cup and got a good amount for close to $6. They give you more for this size compared to other gelato shops I've been to which is awesome! Great service, great price and serving, delicious, cute outdoor patio, and close to the beach! A must visit when in downtown Encinitas!”

- Lana T. Yelp Elite

“This is some of the best gelato I’ve had. And yes, I've been to Italy. ;) The Opera, the Tiramisu, and the Sea Salt Caramel were amazing. Every time I go I find a new favorite flavor. Today it was Chocolate Peanut Butter. They seem to have new flavors often, and it always tastes so fresh and natural. I am in love. And now, they have a Solana Beach location too. Yay!”

- Dawn, Google Local Guide

“Oh my goodness this was amazing Gelato. Reasonable prices and vibey lil spot! The girl helping us out was on top of it. Did not disappoint!”

- Maria Bailey, Google

“Truly excellent coconut gelato, intensely flavored, not too sweet. Nutty with a wonderful texture. Together with dark chocolate drowned in espresso made an exceptional treat. The staff were cheerful, attentive and quick. The ambiance of the pretty, shaded patio gave the perfect seaside feel. I have lived in Italy and this recaptures the real experience. Bravissimi!”

- Murray Writtle, Google

“This charming beach vibe gelato spot has it all! The gelato is the best I have ever had. And they make a divine Thai Tea Boba! The staff was friendly and made solid recommendations that would make anyone a return customer. Lots of seating and roomy enough to have a few friends and maybe your pup as well.”

- Nathan, Google Local Guide

“You could raise your own cow, hand fed on organic grasses and flowers, massaged by loving hands, and milked by virgins and it still wouldn't taste as good as Gelato 101. The quality is unquestionable, the flavors insanely intense, the Gelato 101 is altogether, ethereal. This place has ruined ‘ice cream’ for me, happily. Nothing else will do.”

- Jacintha Jaa, Google Local Guide