Husband and wife duo Simon and Margaret Bailey hope to serve the folk of Chichester for “years to come” at a new authentic Italian ice cream shop.
The artisan gelateria has opened its doors in the heart of the city, and is already proving a hit with residents.
Baileys Artisan Gelato is the creation of the couple, who were inspired to set up shop last year after studying the art of gelato-making at the Carpigiani Gelato University in Bologna. Prior to this venture, Mr Bailey worked as a finance partner and Mrs Bailey as a teacher.
The establishment serves a range of gelatos, sorbets, waffles and cakes, as well as teas and coffees, and most produce is sourced locally. The milk and cream is organic and hails from Chichester’s well-respected Home Farm in Goodwood, the coffee is roasted at Edgecumbes in nearby Arundel, and the seasonal fruit is delivered from local orchards.
The Baileys churn their gelati themselves in the shop’s specially designed basement, using the same traditional Italian production techniques and equipment on which they were taught in Bologna. The flavours, however, are authentically British and seasonal.
Salted caramel is a customer favourite, but there are also more uncommon offerings such as a Sussex honey yoghurt gelato and a damson sorbet. A dairy-free gelato made using coconut milk is soon to be added to their repertoire.
Co-founder Margaret says she loves to get creative with her mixing. She said: “There’s absolutely nothing I enjoy more than getting creative and experimenting with flavours in what the Italians refer to as the ‘laboratory’ downstairs.
“We love hearing customer feedback, and are always striving to ensure that we have something for everybody to enjoy. We are really looking forward to introducing some wintery flavours soon, which will wonderfully complement a warm Liege waffle and a hot drink.”
Baileys Artisan Gelato also offer a takeaway service, allowing customers to take home a litre or half litre of their delicious gelato to enjoy at home. Should customers want to enjoy their sweet treat on the premises however, there is a bright and tranquil seating area upstairs that overlooks the famous Market Cross in the street outside.
And Simon Bailey says the response to the opening of the shop has been heartening. He said: “We are committed to the highest quality in the ingredients we use and the products we offer to our discerning customers, and are delighted by the warm response we have had from our customers so far!
“We are proud to be a local and independent business, and are looking forward to providing a welcoming and exciting venue for locals and visitors alike in the years to come.”
Baileys Artisan Gelato can be found next to the Market Cross on West Street and is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am.
