Boston - July 17, 2006

Inside Scoop

Arpeggio Cafe Ice Cream

You’ve had strudel that made you want to run yodeling up the Alps and tiramisu that sent you to the kitchen to weep on the chef’s apron strings.

But nothing beats the unadulterated bliss of the basic scoop.

If a spoonful of chocolate chip ice cream is enough to make you swoon, imagine what white chocolate almond or biscotti java chip will do to you. They’re just two of the 250 (yes, 250) flavors that you’ll find in rotation at South Boston’s little gem, Cafe Arpeggio.

The fresh cream and milk come from a dairy in Dartmouth. Dried cranberries come from Willows Cranberries in Wareham. And those raisins in the rum raisin have been soaking in booze for a week.

Who’s the diligent genius behind this vintage wonder? Rob Gould, with help from his family.

Just try to restrain yourself when you show your gratitude, eh?

Cafe Arpeggio, 398 West Broadway, South Boston (617-269-8822 or cafearpeggio.com).