In November 2024, we hosted the UK leg of the world-renowned Gelato Festival, in partnership with Carpigiani and Sigep!
With three heats across London, Manchester, and Hereford the gelato scene in the UK had never been more fired up, as some of the nation’s best gelato chefs brought their a-game to compete for their place in the Gelato Festival World Masters European Finals in Italy this year!
Taking place in Bologna, 30th – 31st October 2025, three UK finalists will compete against more than 40 gelato chefs from across Europe to battle it out for their spot in the World Masters! These competitions truly highlight the talent across our industry, recognising the skill and passion that goes into creating stand-out artisan gelato recipes.
Ahead of the European finals, we caught up with our UK winners! Please meet Hereford’s winner: Daniele Panunzio of Panunzio’s Kitchen Gelati Italiani in Bristol.
Daniele, the Founder and Managing Director of the Bristol-based Panunzio’s Kitchen Gelati Italiani, blew the judges away with his unique ‘Monte Bianco’ recipe – a gelato inspired by his favourite childhood treat, with White Lake goat’s cheese, caramelised salted pecans, and fresh raspberry sauce.
An artisan gelato chef through and through, Daniele’s recipes are layered with authentic and homemade flavours that reflect not only his upbringing in Rome but love of memorable sensory experiences. Using global ingredients to create outstanding gelato recipes, this has led to many awards and accolades for his shop in Cotham Hill, which since its opening in 2022, has gained a loyal following. With such appreciation for his craft, from customers and award bodies alike, Daniele says he feels there has been a positive shift in the industry.
Speaking of the UK gelato scene, Daniele says: “From my point of view, the premium gelato industry in the UK is evolving rapidly, driven by consumer demand for authentic, artisanal experiences and cleaner ingredient labels. I find it very interesting reading industry-leading publications like The Caterer and Speciality Food Magazine, where trends such as plant-based alternatives, low-sugar recipes, and bold, globally inspired flavours are gaining traction. It’s exciting to see gelato shifting from a seasonal treat to a year-round indulgence, with growth opportunities in both retail and experiential formats like boutique gelaterias and pop-ups.”
Looking back to last year, it is still clear why Daniele stood out to the judges. He knew his dish was a bold choice – a choice that could have cost him but instead has propelled his creativity and talent to a global stage. Presenting his dish in Hereford, it was evident to the panel of industry experts how carefully considered the flavour profiles and textures of the recipe were, whilst also telling a story of childhood memories by paying tribute to his grandmother. The judges scooped this concept right up.
Looking back on the challenge Daniele says: “I’m thrilled that I’ve officially qualified for the European Finals of the Gelato Challenge, a milestone that marks an exciting chapter in my journey within the premium gelato industry.
“Competing in the regional rounds was an incredible experience. It not only allowed me to showcase my passion for artisan gelato but also pushed me to innovate and refine my craft. One of the highlights was receiving feedback on how judges who appreciated the balance of flavour and texture in my entry and praised my creative use of high-quality ingredients while maintaining authenticity, defining my choice BOLD.
“The competition reaffirmed just how dynamic and forward-thinking the gelato community is. I walked away inspired by fellow competitors and filled with new ideas for flavour combinations and techniques, especially as consumer trends lean toward health-conscious formulations and globally inspired profiles.
“Looking ahead to the European Finals, I’m more motivated than ever to elevate my work and represent the creativity and craftsmanship that define this evolving industry.”
Carpigiani UK is thrilled by the success of 2024. Recognised globally, we are pleased to showcase the best gelato chefs in the UK as part of the Gelato Festival World Masters and look forward to supporting more gelato artisans through future competitions to come.
Be sure to watch this space and keep an eye on our socials as we keep you up to date with Daniele’s progress in the European Finals! Good luck Daniele!