A Lochmaben cafe in Dumfries and Galloway has received recognition for their exceptional gelato at the World Gelato Masters Festival in Manchester. Martin Crolla, a fourth-generation ice cream maker, operates A Crolla & Sons alongside his cousin Sean and mother Roslyn. The cafe, which has been in the family since 1915, recently transitioned from offering just one vanilla flavour to an impressive selection of 20 flavours following a rebranding and machinery upgrade in 2019.
During the competition, Martin paid tribute to his father and mentor, Lorenzo, naming his creation after him. The dessert, named Lorenzo, featured White Chocolate and Honey Gelato with a Raspberry Variegato and Pistachio Crema. Martin expressed his pride in representing his family, Gelateria, and town, thanking everyone involved for the unforgettable experience.
The Crolla family’s gelato legacy traces back to their Italian roots in the late 1800s, with Martin’s ancestors settling in Lochmaben after moving around various locations. Last year, the cafe clinched the title of Best Family-Run Business at the Scottish Italian Awards, along with two highly recommended awards for Best Team and Best Gelateria/Dessert Cafe.
Martin’s dedication to preserving his family’s gelato tradition and innovative flavour combinations have garnered acclaim both locally and beyond. His commitment to quality and excellence in gelato-making shines through in his creations and his passion for the craft is evident in his award-winning entries.
Overall, the success of A Crolla & Sons highlights the rich heritage and talent within the Dumfries and Galloway community, showcasing how a family’s passion for gelato-making can transcend generations and earn recognition on a global platform.