Dojo Gelato
Findlay Market,137 Elder St, Cincinnati, OH, 45202
Dojo Gelato Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Cincinnati for healthy meals suggestion.
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Visit below restaurant in Cincinnati for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
Findlay Market,137 Elder St
Cincinnati, OH, 45202 - Phone (513) 328-9000
- Website https://www.dojogelato.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Tue
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
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Maureen B.
Do you know how Cincinnati people get all excited about food that really isn't very good? Dojo Gelato is a rare exception. If anything, it gets better every time I am there. I had the lemon cardamom today and it was wonderful - real flavors, complex flavors, not over-sweet like so much local food. The balsamic something-or-another (cherry?) was also lovely. The staff always gives great recommendations for combinations and that one small cup is more satisfying than a whole pot full of Graeters. It's worth every penny and it makes a real foodie smile.
(5)Marie E.
The nutella is my favorite flavor. I like to go by and pick up a couple of pints when we have people over if I don't feel like making dessert. I have done that twice now and the owner has been great about letting me sample as many flavors as I want before making my choices. He also fills the pints up to the very top which is great and well worth the money.
(4)Jessica S.
I LOVE THIS PLACE. My mom and I stopped here to get some gelato for my sister's birthday. We picked up a pint of The Elvis and Kit Kat. My sister LOVES Kit Kats so it was perfect that they had it for her birthday. We all loved the Elvis too. It had a great banana flavor. While we picked up the pints we had to (of course) gte some to go. I had half pistachio and half blackberry. My mom had half vanilla and half lemon. I am going to say hands down out of all the gelato I've had from Dojo the Pistachio was the best. I love it. I dream about it at night. The rest were great too- I tried the lemon and loved it too- I am a big fan of lemon flavored things and it was very lemony and delicious. Also everyone was very friendly. Overall it was an excellent experience. Can't wait to try some more flavors!
(5)Dan B.
I'm not a huge ice cream or gelato person unless I have a sudden craving for it. Dojo is a place where I definitely like to go when I want something sweet. They are always helpful and willing to let you try the flavors before you buy. Not only do they have your typical flavors but they like to mix it up by carrying some unusual and some gourmet options. One of my favorites was a very spicy chocolate gelato, which was surprisingly spicy but in a really satisfying way. They also serve really good coffee and sell it by the pound as well. If you are at findlay market or if you want gelato you should definitely give Dojo a shot.
(5)Brieanne S.
Holy heaven in my mouth!! This place is amazing!! I know that I have made it pretty clear that I am a loyal Graeters fan but I will be open and honest about my secert affair with Dojo. Anyone that has been here knows exactly what I'm talking about. And if you haven't been here...well....WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! The ever-changing list of flavors keeps me coming back for more. Not sure what to get? They will gladly offer you samples of anything you want to try. Narrowed your choice to 2 flavors but still can't make that final decision? Then get both. Yes, you can totally do that! I love ice cream-one of my guilty pleasures. And if I had Dojo readily available to me 24/7, lets just say the only thing that would be unhappy would be my scale.
(5)Shay F.
dojo cart catering! price is awesome, service is awesome. do it!
(5)Jerry N.
Ants on a log gelato--what?! That is correct. If you remember this childhood snack with fondness (celery stalk, peanut butter, with raisins lined up like little marching ants), first introduced to me by one Mr. Rogers, then this flavor would leave you reeling. I'm pretty sure my brain STILL hasn't fully comprehended what it experienced while enjoying this delectable treat ("celery + gelato = DOES NOT COMPUTE"). But I know it was delicious. They had tons of other awesome sounding flavors, but since I paired my AOAL with chocolate (also appropriately fantastic), I can't comment on those. My wife had...something or other. Much more boring than mine, whatever it was. But I'm sure it was fine. The staff (was it Do? Was it Jo? Was it Dojo owner Michael Christner?) was super friendly and inviting. I'm a fan, and when life next finds me in Cincinnati, I will make Dojo Gelato a top priority.
(4)Josh O.
I'll say this: if you don't like Dojo, there is clearly, objectively something wrong with you. We decided to head to Dojo after a healthy meal at Pho Lang Tang (review coming soon). This, somehow, would be my first time trying Dojo Gelato. I always saw the stand at Findlay Market and the mobile stand at various events, but somehow I managed never to give it a whirl. Today I would not let the opportunity pass and thank goodness I didn't. I was absolutely delighted. It lived up to the extreme praise I've heard from everyone who had tried it. I got two scoops in a cone: one of pumpkin and one of a sweet cream flavor that I am too uncultured to remember (it wasn't in English). Suffice it to say, both were delicious. The pumpkin was perfectly spiced and actually tasted like pumpkin, not artificial flavors. The other was also great, with the rich flavor of fresh cream. It was a nice mix between the two scoops, with the very flavorful pumpkin sitting atop the subtle sweet cream. I loved it, but I still had buyer's remorse. She got two scoops: one of salted caramel and one of pistachio. Out of the four flavors, the salted caramel, IMO, was easily tops. They had a million other flavors, though, from the typical (vanilla) to the waaaay out of the ordinary (kit kat). All I know is that I will be back and I will struggle to pick a flavor. If you're at Findlay Market or see the cart out on the town, don't miss the opportunity. You will regret it.
(5)Bradley G.
I don't make it out to Findlay Market very much, but when I do, Dojo is a staple for my visits. And that, coming from the least adventurous, non-dessert loving person you can imagine. But what won me over was Dojo's rotation of flavors, never keeping the same things on the shelves to get boring. Instead, a mix of new and old get thrown together to make a weekly challenge out of what to order. (My personal favorite being the bourbon) I imagine if you're new to Cincinnati, Dojo shouldn't be anything to go out of your way for. It's delicious, but with so many things to take in all over the city, save this for your second trip. But maybe in a few years, that'll change. With the addition of a van and cart, Dojo may grow to be a local must-have. So I would see it wise to keep an eye on this business. Dojo is terrific, and wonderfully simple. The menu -cut and dry- the service, the location, all of it's pretty great, and all of it will leave you eagerly awaiting the next list of flavors. Just writing about it is making me wish I had a pint in my freezer.
(4)Jennifer j.
Awesome. Friendly staff always willing to let you try their crazy but awesome flavors (Captain crunch and pumpkin ale are two of my husband's favorites) and then some more typical but amazing ones- Vietnamese coffee, Dutch chocolate, spectacular lemon sorbet, and the groovy new lemongrass and lime. A trip to Findlay market isn't complete without a trip to Dojo. Plus they also have great hot chocolate, and coffee from local roaster La Terza. Don't miss out on one of the things that makes Cincinnati awesome.
(5)Chelsea V.
Ice cream of the Italian persuasion... ...in my one stop grocery store ;)- Dojo sits at the entrance of the main pavilion at Findlay market in downtown Cincy. If you aren't familiar with Italian style ice cream, this is the place to get your fix. Don't be alarmed by all it's crazy flavors- Guiness, green tea or even plain chocolate, they are all fantastic. But remember, a little goes a long way- don't need much to appease your sweet tooth. And while your there, don't forget to snag a waffle from Belgium waffles right up the aisle to go with your new favorite cold tastey treat!
(4)Sean B.
A very welcome addition to Findlay Market, the kids at Dojo Gelato are dishing out delicious and creative takes on Italian ice cream. Try the Porkopolis (flavored with BACON!). My new favorite (sorry Madisono's) gelato. *Maybe* my new favorite ice cream.
(4)Fuzzysaurus L.
Great gelato in terms of flavor and texture. interesting selection of flavors as well, reminiscent of jeni's in columbus. some are ok, but there are definitely some outstanding ones like "vietnamese coffee" which is AMAZING. that plus no artificial anything and hormone free? Sold! have to thank my foodie buddy for this one as he discovered it!
(5)Ryan L.
The Dojo has such unique flavors that I don't where to start. With flavors like Cap'n Crunch, Nutella, Cream Cheese, and many other unique choices, I had a tough time choosing. I took a free taste of some cherry flavor, and enjoyed it. After some debate though, I opted for a Nutella/Sea Salt and Caramel cup. You get two flavors in the small cup ($3.75) and up to four flavors in the large cup ($4.75), so no matter what, you get to try at least two new flavors. Dojo makes their gelato in small batches and they ensure quality ingredients. The gelato was amazing, and was at the same level as Graeter's. I am excited for the summer so that I will have an excuse to visit Findlay Market and enjoy some more gelato!
(5)Rachel R.
I love Dojo! There are always new flavors and they're always tasty! My favorite was the spicy mango... it was like pow in my mouth! And... you can always taste a flavor using their reusable spoons! But no worries, they clean them of course! In fact, I'm going to get some right now!
(5)Chrissy S.
This is yummy stuff! I've been to the location at Findlay Market a number of times, and I even sought them out at the Crafty Supermarket this weekend. I'll admit, there are some flavors that I don't like, but they'll give you a sample if you ask nicely. In conclusion, I think you should try Dojo Gelato. As does everyone else who has reviewed this place!
(5)Liz A.
i am just writing this review to try to harass michael into making coconut. this is the only gelato flavor that i am aware of with its own fan club. michael never makes it because he claims it doesn't sell. anyone who is passing this up is going to have one more item on their list of regrets when they die. COCONUT GELATO FOR LIFE!!!
(5)Jorge T.
Dojo means "training ground" in Japanese, but at Dojo Gelato in Findlay Market, they can take the training wheels off. The Vietnamese coffee gelato is not just inspired, it is sheer masterful genius. For more "traditional" flavors, the Dutch Chocolate and Bourbon Vanilla take basic to another level with purity of flavor. Add to that Dojo's commitment to hormone-free dairy products, no artificial flavors, and priority to sourcing ingredients locally, and you can have your taste carnival and feel good about it.
(5)Becca E.
Can I add stars? Just multiply these stars because 5 is not good enough. Why do I love Dojo? Can we start with the flavors? Oh the flavors! I am actually partial to the fruit sorbettos myself, but never would I think I would want a frozen dessert with cilantro in it. But there it was and it was delicious!! I love the fact that I can sample any of the flavors before having to commit. I love that I can get multiple flavors per cup and that the bigger the cup the more flavors I get. I love that my brother, one of the pickiest eaters I know and one of the people who rarely shows any enthusiasm will not only go with me and try different flavors but actually seems to be enjoying himself. I love that going there feels like a special treat after a hard week. I love that they have a card where I can see just how much Dojo I have eaten and when I have eaten the right amount, I can get some for free. I love that they have a cart which goes to the Hyde Park Farmer's market which is right around the corner from me. This is one place you cannot miss.
(5)Michael C.
This is the best gelato in the city for sure. It's not as good as Italy but it'll do in a pinch. I had 4 flavors, Pineapple Express, Vietnamese Coffee, Cherry and another one in forgetting at the moment. Moral of the story is: I have had most of the flavors here and they are all above average. Even the sorbets hold up to the cream based gelato so if you are lactose intolerant like my wife there is still a great alternative that won't twist your bowels in knots! I suggest going on a weekday when you can take your time and mosey around the market without having to gobble it down before it melts from the heat of so many bodies pressed upon each other or someone breathes, coughs, sneezes in your general direction ultimately ruining your dreamy-creamy experience. They also sell gelato on fresh baked cookies as a sandwich to eliminate the waste but it was way too hot outside for it not to be a mess while wearing dress clothes!
(4)Cindy G.
This review is long overdue. As one of the pioneers of gelato in Cincinnati Dojo is simply the best. Located in Findlay Market this is the perfect stop on a weekend afternoon with your family. My boyfriend and I purposely start at the other end of Findlay and when we get to Dojo we simply can't resist. Pistachio is my all time favorite flavor. I love the saltiness and the sweet creamy balance. And they are always rotating seasonal flavors in and out and keeping it fresh! The owner is a gem and really cares about his businesses. See them out and about at events and festivals around town and you can even order them for catering now! What a super fun thing to have at a wedding, or office party. Also love catching them at Eli's after I kill a pork sammie. Because gelato and BBQ are pretty much the perfect summer pair. Stop by and see them, you won't regret it!
(4)Carcharodon M.
I was in for a treat at Bunbury when I came across the Dojo truck! My decision was made for me once I spotted the "Freshman 15" flavor of peanut butter Oreo. I received my scoop at once and even ordered the vegan strawberry balsamic sorbetti for my girlfriend. I'm incredibly impressed they thought to add the vegan option to make ordering much easier for the lactose intolerant folk. My girlfriend enjoyed the sorbetti so much, she went in for seconds. Which usually never happens because stuff like that is usually too tart for her. So two thumbs WAY up! The truck has a very welcoming carefree atmosphere about it in addition to its tasty treats. Even as I trudged past the Dojo truck around 11, they were still hopping! They had some suave music playing, changing colorful lights, and a bubble machine. Totally looking forward to another run in, hopefully soon!
(5)ANais M.
I had a small cup of banana bourbon sorbet. It tasted like unripe bananas (felt like it in my mouth too, that weird stickiness) but was overly sweet. Didn't taste the bourbon. At almost $5 a cup it was a disappointment.
(2)Henry J.
Dojo Gelato probably serves up the best gelato in the Cincinnati area. The texture is exceptionally smooth and creamy. There are an abundance of unique flavors that always make me go: "Wait, that can be made in to a dessert??" Examples of the surprising flavors: Coconut curry (Yum! to me) Olive oil (eh...) Chocolate wasabi (yay) Fior de latte (simply cream!) Vietnamese coffee (tastes like the real thing) Banana and bourbon (didn't like it) I was very tempted to dock a star from this review because certain gelato flavor staples, such as pistachio, are not part of their permanent flavors. Flavors almost always change here. But despite that shortcoming, their unique flavors make visiting here almost always an adventure.
(5)Katharine F.
Dojo is a family Cincy favorite. The Vietnamese coffee and Pistachio brings us together and the ever changing menu keeps us coming back. Coffee is excellent as well, and justifies having gelato in the morning with your cup of joe.
(5)Khoa N.
Love their Gelato! Tried their Vietnamese coffee with espresso. Not sure what their hours of operation is but you can guarantee that they will be there in the weekends.
(4)Tony S.
Little pricey but amazing Gelato.. Don't know I can add much more than what's already been said. They make all their own gelato and have seasonal flavors. I would recommend checking them out for dessert.
(4)Jeremiah A.
I really enjoyed the raspberry and goat cheese gelato. I also sampled the dutch chocolate and it was great as well. I would definitely return.
(4)Katie W.
Super tasty gelato, just one star off because there weren't that many flavors (compared to other bigger ice cream chains). I had the Churro and Bellini gelatos and I have no complaints. Salted caramel tasted good but a little on the sweet side. Will def go back and try other flavors!
(4)Zack F.
I'm giving them an extra star because their espresso is better than many of the coffee shops I've been to around town lately. I had the affogato. Oh my deliciousness overload. The espresso mixed with the dark chocolate gelato enveloped me in a rich velvety embrace. I couldn't decide whether to chug it down or savor it slowly.
(5)Steve H.
Simply amazing, someone with passion makes this great, creating outside the box, not typical vanilla n chocolate place exotic flavors. Staff friendly and knowledgeable. Thanks you do well
(5)Linsey G.
I typically don't love ice cream, but I love me the occasional Dojo. In fact, I had it for lunch just a few short weeks ago at Crafty Supermarket. I don't particularly like caramel anything, but everyone seems to love the Salted Caramel variety. Instead, I have found my one true joy in the Churro-flavored gelato. I've also tried a handful of other flavors (Fior de Latte, Pumpkin, and its variations of chocolate and vanilla), which have been good, but the Churros! Additionally, no matter where I've found Dojo (its flagship in Findlay Market, or its stands at Crafty Supermarket and Taste of OTR to name a few), the workers have been unbelievably friendly. It's a bit pricey, but I love it.
(4)Christine M.
Dojo Gelato is the end to a lot of good things- a successful day at the market, a great meal, or an otherwise bland afternoon. I like the Vietnamese coffee, vanilla, starchiatella (standard-ish fare) but love their combinations. The peanut butter and jelly, peanut butter and siracha (see a pb theme here and my totally lack of awareness of how to spell that tasty hot sauce). I've had great sweet, savory, and otherwise traditional flavors here. Typically, though I do love what they're slinging, I split a small with the husband because I find it keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. Also, I always want more the next time around. The flavors are intense, fulfilling, interesting. Love this place!
(5)Sandra F.
Great customer service and awesome Gelato. I went on a Sunday which was pretty busy. I was greeted and helped right away. The gentleman told me if there are any flavors I want to sample to let him know. I sampled the lemon ginger and was not thrilled. I ended up purchasing the salted caramel gelato. It was so good! I got it in a small cup which was tiny, but I didn't need much. I just ate lunch. It was just the right size, however the pricing I thought was a little high. $4.50, but great quality. I would definitely return and try another flavor. Located in Findlay Market.
(4)Lia V.
It just tastes so good when it hits your lips! The only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because the prices are outrageous... however... it's friggin' worth it. $4.50 for a small and that is all you need because this stuff is flavor dense. The dutch chocolate is just how I like my men - dark, luscious and rich ;-) I mean this is no comparison to the real stuff in Italy, but this gelato is pretty wonderful.
(4)Katie F.
Dojo is DELICIOUS. I love the chocolate gelato... it's creamy, rich, and like heaven in a spoonful for sweet tooths like myself! You may be surprised by how small the servings are - I was at first. But this gelato is so rich and filling that the smaller size is totally appropriate. It's not like ice cream. Don't be scared to ask for samples, the staff is super friendly and always really helpful. My only complaint is that it's a little too expensive for me, especially their coffee options.
(4)Elaine W.
You don't need me to tell you that they have gelato and the gelato is pretty frickin good. What I will tell you is that in the colder months (yes, now), they make Italian-style sipping chocolate. If you have been fortunate enough to try the real thing in Europe, you should be jumping in your seat right about now. Hold your horses, Dojo does a pretty good job, but it is not quite the same as what you get in Italy or Paris (chocolat a l'ancienne). It is just as thick, rich and creamy, but loaded with sugar. High standards aside, if you need a major chocolate fix and you love darker chocolate, this should take care of ya, and I'm not aware of any other place in Cincy that attempts to make sipping chocolate (kudos, Dojo). It comes in a 12 oz cup, which is generous for something this rich, especially compared to its teensy European counterpart. They can even add a shot of espresso if you like. Warning: if you treasure your tongue, do not take that first eager sip. Do not. Wait a little while and then enjoy it slowly. If you are in public, don't be alarmed if people give you weird stares. You'll soon realize why when you give yourself a chocolate-stained grin in the mirror.
(4)Jess H.
AFFOGATO. You must try it. I had it with a couple scoops of the chocolate gelato. Espresso + chocolate gelato = Heaven Of course, you can combine any gelato with the amazing espresso. A million thanks to the staff member who suggested this amazing concoction! She was very excited about my decision to try it.
(5)Katie H.
Today I made my first visit to Dojo! I love the atmosphere of Findlay Market, so that gets them off to a good start. I have to say I went in with high expectations...and that might be why I ended up being disappointed. I was told by friends and saw on their Facebook page that they usually have very unique flavors, but I guess I went in the wrong day. I sampled the Salted Caramel first - the flavor didn't have quite enough depth to pull off the sweetness. I sample the pumpkin and it was pretty nice. I sampled the Dark Chocolate and it was very yummy, but I didn't want to go with such an everyday flavor. When I asked what flavors were the most popular, I was the Salted Caramel, Dark Chocolate and Coffee. So, I gave the coffee a try and it was by far the best! I ended up taking home a pint of Pumpkin and Coffee. Over all I was pretty pleased with the quality of the gelato, I just had different flavor expectations. Definitely worth a visit in case they switch up the flavors soon.
(4)Katie F.
This is not a review for the gelato, but for the espresso. I don't know if it was an off day, or what, but I ordered a double espresso and (it took a while to make) when I tried it, it tasted so burnt and sour that after some debate, I returned and asked for a new one. A guy who looked in charge apologized and pulled the next serving himself (and I get that making espresso is kind of time consuming, but at this point I had waited about 10 cumulative minutes for 2 little cups of espresso in a very packed area and was a bit frustrated/embarrassed). Unfortunately, he did not use a spoon or straw to taste it himself, handed it to me, and (again) it had that bitter/sour/burnt flavor, and was unpalatable. At that point I was not going to complain and wait again in such a busy/packed space, so I walked out and just threw it away. I'm sure there was a less passive-aggressive way to resolve this, but at that point I was done, and their vibe did not seem to overly seek out feedback (eg: "Hey, so sorry it didn't work, please let us know if it's ok, it's no problem if it's not...") so the easiest solution was just to walk away.
(2)Laura G.
Well, I went on a diet yesterday but that just flew out the window. Oh Walnut & Banana gelato, you ruined me! However, my guilt was totally worth it. The serving sizes are generous and I can guarantee that you'll find something that tickles your fancy. It was 35 degrees outside when I picked up Dojo but I didn't let that stop me. The owner is beyond friendly and knowledgeable. He just seems to know what flavors will go great together and *poof* they do! Creamy, cold heaven right in my cup. Amen to that.
(5)Regina R.
This place rocks! Super friendly staff. Amazingly delicious, good quality gelato with funky fun flavors. I was kind of sold on Vietnamese coffee, but instead went for Nocciolo and Dutch Chocolate. Delicious. Next time though I'm going to follow the server's advice and order one of those gelato doused in espressos (names some cute Italian word for "drowning"). I do wish they had more options to choose from, but honestly, that's probably not a good idea considering I still had trouble choosing! Next time I'm totally going to get an Italian hot chocolate...ummm...right after my gelato espresso thingy...Ok, this may involve multiple trips. We sat at the little counter and enjoyed our gelato, chatting with the staff. So nice! Now we just need to have some sort of event so that we can hire one of their Dojo carts. Seriously, it's going to happen.
(4)Han L.
I stumbled upon this corner vendor while exploring Findlay market. They had a very interesting selection of flavors; Vietnamese coffee, lavender honey, and OLIVE OIL (?!?!), to name a few. There's 12 flavors total. Well, being Vietnamese, I gravitated towards the Vietnamese coffee flavor. Hot diggity, it reminded me of the cafe du monde brand coffee that old Vietnamese folks drink. It had a rich flavor. The olive oil was interesting. I was thinking to myself, man, what the hell does olive oil taste like? Well, it was good and I would agree it's "olive oil" I am eating. It's a light , clean flavor actually. Ok, the lavender honey was fantabulous. It was fragrant, but not perfumed. It actually reminded me of honeysuckles. Anywhichway, this place rocks. I like the efficient use of metal spoons instead of plastic, disposable ones. They also sell drinks here. Minus .05 pts for minimum five dollar cc/debit card use, so bring cash if you're planning on a small purchase!
(5)Shelbi R.
I had the pleasure of trying this while I was at Bunbury Music Festival last month. I got the vegan strawberry option and it was phenomenal. It's rare that you find a place that has a vegan option, not to mention a vegan option that is amazingly delicious! It was creamy just like ice cream and really refreshing. I bought two cups of it that day. I highly recommend this place!
(5)Chang Z.
Not a fan of gelato. But the flavor is really good! Kind of forget which ones I chose, but you can taste everyone before determine which flavors to go!
(5)Brittney B.
I had the strawberry balsamic sorbetto, sea salt caramel and Nutella flavors they were all fantastic! The cashier was really helpful and let me try lots of flavors, I'm indecisive, and I really appreciate her patience. I will be back very soon, this is my favorite gelato!
(5)Stacy S.
Went to Findlay Market on a Sunday just because we wanted to, and we were blown away when we saw the cool flavors. Had to try the Madtree gelato and the taste was astounding. I didn't expect it to really taste like the beer, but it really did. It was so interesting, but in a way that I talk about it to everyone. We bought a small and it was a perfect size, it was very rich in flavor. Definitely will go back. Took a bumper sticker.
(5)Alex S.
I knew I was in love with Dojo when they made Captain Crunch gelato. Even typing that made me love them a little bit more. For those confused (and I know I was) Gelato is: "Italy's regional variant of ice cream. As such, gelato is made with some of the same ingredients as most other frozen dairy desserts. Milk, cream, various sugars, flavoring including fruit and nut purees are the main ingredients. Gelato differs from ice cream in that it has a lower butterfat content, typically gelato contains 4-8% versus 14% for ice cream. Gelato generally has slightly lower sugar content, averaging between 16-22% versus approximately 21% for ice cream. Non-fat milk is added as a solid. The sugar content in gelato is precisely balanced with the water content to act as an anti-freeze, that is, to prevent the gelato from freezing solid." (Wikipedia) Basically, it's a delicious ice-cream like treat. What makes Dojo Gelato so special is they are constantly coming up with new and insane(ly awesome) flavors. Whatever Owner Mike dreams of, he makes it into a frozen dessert. The only real problem is this stuff's so good, it runs out quickly, and when it's gone, it's gone. You have to wait until they decide to make up more of that particular flavor, and that only seems to happen once in a basically never. Dojo is located in Findlay Market, but recently they acquired a custom-painted van to be the massive Dojo Cart that travels the city. Thanks Mike, just what I needed, more chances to eat your treats and get fat. The store also Tweets like crazy at both twitter.com/dojogelato and twitter.com/dojocart . Mmm, delicious tweets. If you're not sold at this point, then check your pulse, you're probably dead.
(5)Ryan Z.
Walked past this stand on Saturday and my eyes lit up at the sight of pistachio gelato! I waited in line and went to order a medium cup of the pistachio. Oops... it wasn't pistachio... it was avocado. It had the same coloring that is typically seen with pistachio. Even as an avocado lover, I can't imagine that avocado is a very popular flavor for gelato. The girl behind the counter recommended that I try the Nocciolo instead - describing it as an Italian hazelnut flavor. I wasn't particularly impressed with this flavor and at $5.25 for a 4 ounce serving, I don't see myself trying any of the others any time soon. Now, if I see pistachio on my next visit, I might change my mind.
(3)Princess T.
Seriously the BEST gelato EVER. This place is amazing, they always have a few special flavors, sometimes they're a hit and some times they're just OK. One of my favorite "special" flavors is Churro (Mexican flavor with tons of cinnamon flavor on it). PROS: Do you need any more than it being AMAZING gelato? CONS: None! This place absolutely rocks. TIP: Buy a pint and take it to go. It's always such a delightful treat to have a little gelato for desert after diner at home.
(5)Gale C.
Gelato heaven. And not just " the usual" flavors. Avocado, coconut, sea salt caramel. A " don't miss this because it is awesome" must go!! We sampled and ordered. Simply excellent!
(5)Bruce F.
Great name, friendly staff. Got a mocha, perfect blend between the coffee and chocolate. Tasted some Dutch chocolate gelato that tasted great.
(5)Will M.
For any complaint any may have about the culinary offerings of Cincinnati, there's no room to argue with their frozen treasures. I guess it's heritage, with Graeter's, but Dojo carries the torch (as does the underrated Hello Honey.) It's impossible not to love Dojo, and impossible to hit Findlay Market without trying some. Simply reading the flavors will be enough to intrigue you. I highly, highly recommend the Peanut Butter Sriracha, which is one of the best flavors of anything I've had, as well as the Apricot Cinnamon (which tastes like a cobbler.) The true winner, though, is an Affogato, which is an espresso with two scoops. I hate coffee, but love coffee ice cream, and putting two scoops of Salted Caramel gelato in espresso is an absolutely genius idea. The staff is quite friendly, even when working long shifts in Washington Park (amazing on a hot day.) Really, Dojo is just fantastic.
(5)Lauren M.
The first time I had gelato was in Austin, Texas. You know, since Texas is a state known for decent gelato. (It was good stuff, though!) My second experience with gelato was Dojo Gelato at a Yelp event. I think I was impressed, but the flavors didn't wow me. (Though to be fair, it was around the winter holidays and one of the flavors was eggnog, which I hate.) What won me over on that occasion, other than free delicious gelato was how personable and downright awesome the guys manning the cart were. Next time I saw the Dojo Cart, I stood in a long line at a Crafty Supermarket event in Clifton and they completely got me hooked. Really, guys? Coconut curry flavor? Be still my cold, dead heart. Or no, wait, bad writing metaphor/cliché. Aflutter went my cold, dead heart with the delightful peppiness of curried coconut yumminess. Not shy about mixing flavors, I got a half coconut curry and half cherry order, and it was so delicious, I had to restrain myself from licking the last drop out of the bowl. And I am pretty sure a more shameful person would have been embarrassed with the way I cleaned the spoon afterwards. Dojo Gelato: if you see the cart, they are worth whatever they're charging and a lengthy wait (if there is one). They are also worth a follow on twitter @dojogelato. Anytime I have mentioned them, they always thank me back in such a way that it's obviously not a thank-bot. Yay for fun customer service and a delicious product!
(5)Bill E.
When I come to Findlay Market to shop a must stop is Dojo, The workers are so friendly and nice and make a great cup of hot cocoa and from what friends say a great cup of coffee. Onto the Gelato, they always change the flavors weekly and I like that, it gives customers more opportunity to try different flavors. My favorite they have made was like Alex said Captain Crunch and I love the sorbets like grapefruit sorbetto. Mexican Vanilla is divine as well. Cincinnati's best Gelato.
(5)Amy E.
Dojo Gelato-- creamy, interesting flavors, great customer service. Vietnamese coffee is delicious, and paired well with Nocciolo-- and I should have thrown some Dutch Chocolate in that mix. Really, all the flavors are good-- the classic ones, and the more interesting ones. There's a gelato place in Vancouver that has 134 flavors, including crazy ones-- but the problem with that place was that the gelato, while it had interesting flavors (kim chee, Guinness), the gelato was not that good. NOT the case for this place. You get interesting flavors with the quality gelato. I suppose there aren't that many flavors on any given day, but no worries, because you can't go wrong with the flavors that are offered. So go get yourself some gelato!
(5)Ed J.
Top notch gelato - the Vietnamese coffee is a favorite, but the best thing to do is try the crazy favors. I once had a cup half and half consisting of chocolate with chili on one side and pumpkin ale on the other. I didn't mix them but they were very good juxtaposed. Best combo I had there was Dutch chocolate with Captain Crunch in the same cup. Go and try the special flavors - you won't be sorry. Dojo also has fantastic espresso - a great pick-me-up after roaming around Findlay Market for an hour or so.
(5)Ben N.
Forget about the Graeter's vs. Aglamesis debate. Both are fantastic, but Dojo Gelato makes and sells the best ice cream in Cincinnati. (And, yes: Gelato IS ice cream. It's just a different type of ice cream....) Five stars for the Dojo product: The creaminess of the texture and the concentration of flavor beats all of the local competition, as good as some of it is, hands-down. The pleasures here are simple, but they are intense. Only reason to scale back a star is the prices, which are quite high. ($3.75 for an itty-bitty serving?!) But I'm not going to do it. This stuff is obviously hand-made in small batches with quality ingredients, and I recognize that this isn't anything close to cheap to do. Just one more of many excellent reasons to visit Findlay Market.
(5)Lindy T.
Believe it or not, I visit the Dojo not for gelato (although it is great)....I come here because it is the very best latte in the entire city, hands down. The barista knows his stuff and pleases this coffee geek each and every time. And they change out the coffee roasters often so you get to taste something new, sometimes local, sometimes not. Love it, keep up the good work.
(5)Jessica N.
Dojo is awesome. Every time I go here, I get something different, and it's always great. So great that I almost always buy a pint ... or two. The owner is really cool as well. I've had conversations with him on multiple occasions and he is really laid back and helpful. Flavors I can recommend: FLUFFERNUTTER!, captain crunch, gingerbread (was most likely seasonal), olive oil, egg nog (also most likely seasonal), dutch chocolate, almond, their coffee flavor ... and, well, any flavor they are offering, basically. Oh yeah, their hot chocolate is YUM. It's real hot chocolate, as in they melt the chocolate right there and do it up. I got the hot chocolate with the cayenne pepper, which might be a little too spicy for some, but it's so creamy and rich. The pints are upwards of 8 dollars but it's worth it to me.
(5)John B.
This past weekend included a long overdue trip to Findlay Market and while enjoying some great cheese from Krause's, bread from Skirtz & Johnston, and some grub from Fresh Table, we struck up a conversation with a woman that happened to be the wife of Mike the Dojo Gelato owner. Cool! After our lunch, we headed to Dojo and decided on the Cap'n Crunch and Grapefruit sorbetto. Both flavors were great and so fresh and yummy. The small size is just the right amount to share when you don't have much room left for sweet stuff. I grabbed a sticker from the counter and, as part of the very unofficial Dojo ninja street team, I'll have to place it somewhere that will get maximum impact. While we were there we heard another customer ask about having some chocolate offerings, as they did not really have the widest variety of flavors this time. Oh well, I know they change up their flavors all the time. As per their website, they do cater, so I'll have to talk to my boss about having Dojo at our next work function.
(4)Sarah F.
A trip to Findley Market is not complete without a dish of Dojo gelato. It's dense, rich, creamy and packed with flavor. Some very unusual flavors too! (on my last trip one of the offerings was "Fat Elvis" with banana, peanut butter, and bacon!). So far, my favorite (while certainly not the most adventurous) is a small Dutch chocolate and Hazelnut. It tasted like a chocolate truffle in ice cream form. Yum! Yes, it's a little pricey, but you're paying for quality here, people! Also, you can get multiple flavors per cup for the same price (2 in the small, 4 in the large). And trust me, it's so rich that a small is plenty for 1 person!
(5)Jaime S.
DOJO!!!! If you have been to Findlay Market, aren't lactose intolerant or a vegan and you haven't had Dojo you need to reevaluate your priorities. Everything about this stand is perfect, of course the Gelato is great, but you know they are good people when the free company stickers are a play on tasting spoons and the Black Flag bar logo! This isn't ice cream, this is so much more. Ultra creamy and silky smooth, this frozen treat has no equal in the area. Sure, we are blessed with several great ice cream shops in Cincinnati, but remember this isn't ice cream. A simple look at the constantly rotating flavors and you know you are in for something special. With standards like mexican vanilla, dutch chocolate and salted carmel side by side with creative flavors like fluffernutter, captain crunch and the notorious sriracha peanut-butter this is OH! OH! OH! AND THEY MAKE HUDY GELATO!!! YES HUDY GELATO!!! Sorry where was I? its good stuff. Dojo is more than just gelato though. They have some of the best coffee in the area and several different floats ranging from coffee and gelato to the truly magical El Mariachi, Mexican Coke and the Mexican Vanilla float. Do yourself a favor, eat more Dojo! 4 out of 5 doctors recommend at least one serving a week!
(5)Kennie G.
Dojo managed to simultaneously enchant me and blow my mind. A friend of mine hipped me to Dojo a while back when she brought me some Porkopolis gelato. Wrap your mind around this: maple flavored gelato with bits of BACON. Bacon makes everything better, right? Actually, the jury is still out on that. My tastebuds were muy confused! This flavor blew my mind, and even thought I'm not sure I liked it, I immediately knew I'd be back for more. The next flavor I tried was lemon ginger, and boy was that one yummy. Everything tasted so fresh... it was like a cold bite of springtime. I can't wait to go back for more. Their flavors are never the same every time, so you can always look forward to trying something new, but they will let a few favorites stick around. It's a tad pricey, but it's delicious, and you can tell it's made with love and high quality ingredients. Peanut butter sriracha is the next flavor my friend wants me to try. I'm down.
(4)Hans G.
Meh... maybe I didn't find the right flavor on my first attempt. I got the mint and it was overwhelmingly strong... not what I was expecting.
(2)Lizbeth T.
I love this gelato so much that I stop for a small cup whenever I'm at Findlay Market, even if it means eating dessert before my meal or on a day when I am not really in the mood for sweets. Yes, the flavors change constantly which can make it difficult to find your favorites, but the selection is always so amazing that I usually have a hard time making up my mind and end up mixing two flavors.
(5)Jordan E.
Loved LOVED LOVE IT. Read about this place on yelp and it did not disappoint! I got the 2 flavor cup with Dutch chocolate and salted caramel. It was so yummy and much better for you than ice cream! My boyfriend and I can't wait to return and try some new flavors, and def trying an espresso! Any suggestion espresso lovers ?
(5)Angela C.
Have I really not reviewed Dojo? How could I not have already discussed how I cannot visit Findlay Market without being suckered into buying a little cup of Dojo Gelato. Evil, evil, I say. I love gelato, and I love Dojo Gelato. You won't get your typical gelato here, but who wants that anyway? You will find many fun and funky flavors in creamy delicious form. They sound weird, but taste really good. The tiny small size is plenty for me though, it's that rich. I always get half and half to try two flavors, and haven't been disappointed yet.
(4)Dr. E.
One of the better frozen treats I've had in the midwest. A little pricey, but a good reward for a hard week of work.
(5)Jessica S.
I don't know why it took me so long to write a review for Dojo Gelato! It's beyond ice cream... beyond simple confections you can find anywhere else... it's creamy, delicious creativity! Located at a far end of Findlay Market, there are a number of flavors of gelato from which you can choose: from the simplicity of vanilla or chocolate, to the slightly more insane Captin' Crunch or Hot Chocolate (it's spicy, yum!), and everywhere in between. My personal favorite is to get a small (hey, I have to portion-control somehow!) with half Nutella gelato and half Vanilla Bean gelato. Another honorable mention is Vanilla Bean and Veitnamese Coffee. Just thinking about this place makes me want to grab my keys and go to Findlay Market for a gelato fix... maybe I will...!
(5)Mike M.
LOVE IT. michael is the man and dojo is the tops. all the flavors are good. period. not much more to say here except that, if you have not been to dojo, then you best get movin'!
(5)Adolfo N.
Creamy, fatty, delicious. Adventurous flavors to go along with some standard treats. Be sure to ask for a flavor pairing from the staff if you don't have a favorite. They will treat you right, and as always, ask for a sample, no need to waste money on a flavor you aren't going to love. Expect to pay about 5 bucks per person, servings are a little smaller, but its for your own good. You don't want to become Fatty McButter pants overnight do you?
(4)Jeremy B.
This was the second stop in my Findlay visit last Friday, and it was added to the list of places I regret finding shortly before I leave... Oh Dojo Gelato, why did you never just come get me from my house? Well after talking to the owner, I imagine that would be quite difficult, considering he dedicates his life to this work. He told me a cool story, a true stick-it-to-the-man saga, a real f&*k-the-marching-ants tale where he broke free of his corporate job to open up this gelato stand. And he is just as thankful for doing it as his patrons are, even though that seems hard to believe. I had to indulge, so I got the $5 four-flavor cup, and let him choose with one caveat: I get the Cap'n Crunch. This intrigued me so much that it had to be included, but he chose for me the Sam Adams Double Chocolate Bock, the Pistachio, and a Cherry (I think it was Cherry Amarena, not Ameretto). They were all delicious and the Cap'n Crunch was as good as advertised. It tasted exactly like the cereal, but was a completely different experience considering the form in which it was presented. Oh Dojo Gelato, I'm sorry I found you so late, but mark my word: I will return.
(5)Rachael G.
I love gelato, so it would be hard for me to have anything negative to say about Dojo. On a beautiful warm sunny day, one can sit outside of Findlay Market with a cup (or cone, the cones are unique and delicious, the sweetness doesn't hit you til the end) of gelato and think, "man, life can't get much better than this." I had the Chocolate n' Porter and it was great, it tasted like a dark chocolate; it was also very rich as I couldn't finish one tiny scoop (a rarity for me). I just wish they had more flavors at any given time, but I suppose this will only entice me to keep returning frequently, to see what new and interesting flavors they have come up with.
(4)Eric L.
Definitely better than Graeters, but not quite the high art that gelato can/should be. A common case of "trying too hard to impress with unique flavors, but proprietors don't have a very discerning palate" The good: Dutch chocolate: an oldie but goodie, and executed well. Rich dark chocolate and a creamy thick gelato with great texture. Most people do this decently; the differentiating factor was the depth of the chocolate flavor. I bet a little espresso in the milk during the process would really make this pop. The bad: "Peanut butter sriracha" is NOT a dessert flavor for a whole cup. Its a 1/2 teaspoon taste for novelty. However, I understand that novelty sells, so you probably get a lot of sales for this. There's a difference between making money and making gelato though, and I'd prefer if you made gelato. Good marketing ploy though, and the press always likes something different, so you might be winning on this, despite my criticism. "Lemongrass" is a brilliant thought, but separating "Lemon" from "Lemongrass" is the key to making this special. Lemongrass has a subtle flavor to it that would elevate this sorbetto to the next level, but you missed it. "Sea salt caramel" -- I consider this one the biggest failure. Its a common dessert idea to use savory notes, and lots of people do it well. its like you saw someone else do this, but missed the point of having the savory notes. Like the failure to distinguish between "lemon" and "lemongrass", this was just "caramel" not "sea salt caramel". A sexy name does not make a fancy gelato. Cure: bigger pieces of rock salt. As I finish this up, I realize that you HAVE to make flavors like the ones mentioned above in order to get people in the door and to have reporters and articles written about you. But you could definitely do better on lemongrass and sea salt caramel. Ciao Bella is the mark to beat.
(3)Stacey L.
I am a super huge fan of Gelato, so a stop at Dojo is a requirement for any trip to Findlay Market. If you have never tried Gelato before, it is ice creams even creamier cousin. Dojo is one of only a handful of places to get it in Cincinnati. Their flavor offerings rotate regularly, so you never really know what will be there when you show up. It is a nice surprise to see a new flavor you have never tried before! I was a huge fan of their Cap'n Crunch! Servings are small and on their pricier side for what is essentially ice cream. But, think of it as supporting a local business! And their Gelato is really spectacular! They are located right at the front of Findlay near the patio, which makes a quick stop much easier. Service is always quick and given with a smile. Not sure which one you want, they will let you try a sample!
(4)Glenna M.
When I asked @DojoGelato on twitter about a paticular flavor of gelato and what it tasted like, I got the response back that it was as good as getting a hug from a baby Ewok. Now, not being a Star Wars fan (I've never seen any of them) the reference was wasted on me. However, I am a BIG fan of Dojo Gelato. My favorite flavors thus far being the Apple Cider Sorbetto mixed with the Pumpkin . But honestly, I've never put a spadeful into my mouth and said " no no, this is gross take it away" . More likely I used my self defense training in keeping those who tried to "share" with me far far away. Also I'm led to understand they make a mean espresso and coffee so try that too. My advice on Dojo is taste it all, taste it often. Take pints home, take them to your friends.
(5)Emily H.
Does Dojo really need another 5 star review from me? Oh well, I'll give it to them anyway because they deserve another voice saying how awesome they are :) Ever since I had gelato in Italy I wondered, "Why the heck is all ice cream not like this!?" It's amazing and I wouldn't care if I ever ate another kind of ice cream again! So, naturally I was ecstatic to find that Cincinnati has it's own gelato. YUM. When I finally had my first taste I was in love. I love that they have traditional ice cream flavors (Chocolate and Vanilla, but it's no ordinary vanilla) as well as more creative flavors (like Lavendar Honey and Capt 'n Crunch). I had a small serving with a mix of Dutch Chocolate and Salted Caramel. They were both superb! I was torn between those, Nutella and Capt 'n Crunch. I did have a sample of Capt 'n Crunch and I think next time I will try those two flavors... maybe with a shot of espresso on top. Oh yeah, baby. Besides having amazing gelato, they have a great location at Findlay Market. I could get myself into serious sweets trouble in that place so I have to pace myself! Bottom Line: I LOVE YOU DOJO.
(5)Zach B.
just experienced Dojo Gelato for the first time today down at findlay market. I think one of the best things about dojo is their variety of vastly different flavors. I sampled a salted carmel and olive oil. I ended up with Mexican vanilla and a spicy chocolate, the name of it escapes me. the Spicy chocolate had a mean bite to it but the vanilla really cooled it down. they let me sample a bunch of different flavors. The olive oil was strange but i could see how it would be great with other flavors. A regular cup is about 4 bucks and is more than enough serving for something so rich. The staff was friendly. Ill defiantly visit again when I am in findlay market.
(4)Andrea R.
I've been to Italy a few times, and because of this I might consider myself a snob when it comes to gelato. Dojo is about as good as it gets in the USA. My first experience with Dojo was actually at the Hyde Park Farmer's market this past summer. I was told that if I mixed the pineapple-basil sorbet with the salty caramel gelato, it would taste like a pineapple upside down cake. It was absolutely true. Amazing!! I've also tried the dark chocolate, nutella, and pistachio, and of those pistachio is by far my favorite. It's so hard to find authentic pistachio gelato, but Dojo figured out the secret to creating the perfect flavor without the neon green color that many gelato shops offer. As much as I love gelato, though, I don't really crave cold desserts in the middle of winter. But that doesn't keep me away from Dojo. I went to the Findlay Market location this past weekend to try the Italian Hot Chocolate. Also referred to as Cioccolato Caldo and Sipping Chocolate, it really tastes like you're eating a liquid candy bar. AMAZING!!! Sooo rich and thick, but by far, the best dessert drink I've ever tasted. Incidentally, while I was waiting for my hot chocolate to be prepared, I sampled the Fat Elvis gelato. It's a peanut butter gelato with small bits of bacon mixed in. I was a little skeptical, it was actually pretty good. Not sure I'd want to eat an entire cup of it...but that's only because I much prefer straight sweetness to the sweet and savory mix, and the hot chocolate had me covered there.
(5)Patricia L.
How do I love the Dojo? Let me count the ways... Fior de Latte. Lemon Rosemary Sorbetto. Pumpkin. Nutella. Vietnamese Coffee. Coconut. Amarena Cherry. Apple Cider Sorbetto... And my new favorite Honey Dew Melon. This place is legit. The staff is super-friendly, and of course, the gelato is excellent. Smooth, handmade, and tasty. Sure, there have been a few flavors that I haven't loved, but given the fickle nature of my taste buds and the new selections that pop up regularly, that is bound to happen once in a while. The only real downside is that I can't get my favorite flavors any time I want. However, the creativity at Dojo Gelato more than makes up for that and keeps me happy! Oh, and say it's rainy and you think it's too cold for gelato? Italian Hot Chocolate. Yum. (Also, it's never too cold for gelato! You crazy people!)
(5)Dan M.
This gelato stand is a cool idea, but unfortunately, the gelato isn't really that great. It has a good, smooth texture and is prepared the traditional way. However, the other selling point to gelato is the rich flavors. Dojo Gelato kind of misses the mark on that one. The sea salt caramel tastes mostly like salt (so, I guess that's rich, technically), and the chocolate doesn't really taste very chocolatey. It's really unfortunate because I yearn to love everything in Findlay Market. The gelato here is definitely not bad, it's just not really exciting at all. When I have such excellent dessert options as Yagoot, Aglamesis Brothers, and Graeter's in the city, well, I'm just likely to go somewhere else. Bottom Line: I'd be back if I needed dessert at Findlay Market.
(3)Noah G.
Great gelato! I've read great things about this place, and let me tell you they're true! Dojo salvaged my botched trip to Findlay for pho... and made me happy again! I tried the sweet salty caramel, and the diavolo which is a spicy rich chocolate gelato. I've had these very same style flavors elsewhere, at an icecream place, and they did not disappoint at Dojo Gelato either. The diavolo is a deep dark, rich chocolate flavor with a very intense and spicy kick at the end from the ancho and cayenne chile's. I like the spicy afterburn a lot. The salty caramel is creamy and just the right sweetness with a salty kick. To top it all off, the owner at the counter was great. Really nice, and hooked us up with a Dojo sticker! Woot! I'll be back!
(5)Meg G.
I dream about Dojo Gelato. I get cravings for it. It is a welcome addition to what is otherwise a very 'blah' ice cream market, meaning all other offerings are basically the same. Dojo brings a uniqueness factor. The selection of flavors varies, and each batch is handmade with only the freshest ingredients. Some of the flavors may seen strange, (Maple/bacon, really??) but trust me, just give them a try. Like me, you'll find yourself waiting for them to produce that flavor again. And you'll want more. So ahead, have some. It will make your mouth happy.
(5)Amanda S.
We visited Findlay today and I tried Dojo for the second time. The first time, I wasn't so impressed. It was good but didn't rock my world. But today? Today I am a changed woman after sampling the Vietnamese coffee and Fior de Latte. The Vietnamese coffee was beyond fantastic! The coffee flavor wasn't kick-you-in-the-pants intense but it was definitely there. My three-year old niece absolutely loved it. She waltzed through Findlay in a post-Vietnamese coffee euphoria. The Fior de Latte was some tasty business for sure. It's subtly sweet and so creamy. It made me want to hug a cow. And the people there are friendly and it's inexpensive. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area.
(4)Shawna K.
First trip to Dojo left me wanting more! More flavors, more mixtures, more creativity in my gelato creation. One trip is just not enough. I mean, I didn't even get to taste their St. Patty's inspired Guinness gelato! And then after reading other reviews, I hear about wild flavors like Walnut Banana, Captain Crunch, eggnog, and hot cocoa!! The two dudes working behind the counter were friendly, joking with us and let us taste as many flavors as we wanted! Not wanting to hold up the line too much, we went with a salted caramel, mexican vanilla, and mocha flavored gelato and all were dynamite! Smooth, creamy, flavor explosion after flavor explosion in our mouths! And somehow because you think "gelato" and not ice cream, the guilty pleasure doesn't feel as guilty! I can rationalize almost any calorie away! It is right on your way in or right on your way out depending on your market route, but either way, don't come or go without doing your taste buds a favor and hooking em up with some Dojo Gelato!
(4)Allison J.
I think the highest compliment I can give Dojo Gelato is that they think I'm stalking them. I can't help it, when they keep turning up at street festivals and events around town with their amazing gelato, I have to have some. Dojo is constantly mixing up new and adventurous flavors (try the maple and candied bacon Porkopolis if it's available) so it's always fun to see what they've whipped up. They've got a permanent place inside Findlay Market, but you can find the gelato cart at lots of farmers markets around town.
(5)Amy S.
After trying some of the flavors Dojo Gelato had to offer at a Yelp event this past winter, I wanted to stop by while I was at Findlay Market to give it another try. I don't know what I'm missing....maybe I'm just spoiled by Jeni's ice cream in Columbus. Or maybe because I indulged in some Madison's Gelato right before coming here. Either way, I've tasted better gelato.
(2)Eric G.
Hard to believe, but by definition gelato (Italian ice cream) has far lower fat content than premium ice cream or frozen custard. Try any of Dojo Gelato's magnificent flavors and you would swear you are eating a high fat treat. And flavors; ranging from the Dutch Chocolate and Pistachio you might expect, to something slightly out of the ordinary like Vietnamese Vanilla, to flavors you won't find anywhere else, like Dogfish Head Pumpkin Ale, Samuel Adams Double Bock, Porkopolis (with BACON bits) or Matcha Kit Kat (Matcha is a green tea). Try to find those flavors at Baskin Robbins! Don't pass by the chance to stop by their Findlay Market home base or mobile locations at local festivals to try some of this wonderfully original and totally Cincinnati treat.
(5)Leisa W.
Ah, Dojo. Just thinking about them makes me happy and wistful at the same time, like when I remember my days living in Hawaii, or friends that I haven't seen in a while. Happy, because I live within walking distance from Dojo; and wistful, because I don't have any in front of me RIGHT NOW. People--Dojo Gelato is one of the reasons we moved to Cincinnati. OK, we had already decided to move, but it was a confirmation. When we first visited Cincy, we checked out Findlay Market (a wonder in itself), and discovered Dojo. Since it was early May, they had made "Mint Julep" in honor of Derby, and the bourbon & mint taste was so realistic, so amazing, that I felt like a lush for eating it before lunch. We also had the "Peanut Butter Stracciatella", which was rich and like a really high-class Reese's Cup. I've said it before--I adore ice cream. You've no idea how much thought I give to ice cream. It's a sickness, I know. So I'm telling you, I KNOW ice cream, and Dojo is fantastic. They use real ingredients (not flavorings--there was real bourbon in that Mint Julep). They handcraft the stuff, so its made in small batches and when it's gone for the day, it's gone until they decide to make that flavor again. And I won't lie, it's pricey (I don't eat as much as I'd like because of that fact), but if you have the $$, it's absolutely worth it. Treat yourself at their Findlay Market location or when you see the Dojo Cart around town!
(5)Stephanie P.
Going to Dojo Gelato is like an adventure. First, you need to push through the crowds in Findlay to get to their stand. Once you do, you are met with friendly faces and delicious treats. The flavors are constantly changing, with a few continuous favorites. Every flavor is so unique-- Mexican vanilla, coconut, eggnog, captain crunch and salted caramel (my absolute favorite!) I absolutely love Dojo, and the fact that they travel around and can be found at various events and street festivals is awesome. Only downside is that it's a little on the pricey side ($4 for a small and $5 for a regular). But, it is so delicious it's worth it.
(5)Steve F.
Some very interesting flavors offered here, making it a neat stop if you're wandering the market and want a little something to cool down with. I'll admit a couple of the flavors didn't please everyone, but that's what you get when you try things like rosewater gelato... by and large most of the offerings were tasty.
(3)Victoria K.
My favorite thing about Dojo Gelato at Findlay Market is the coffee. If you enjoy the luxury of sipping your coffee out of a real cup while watching the hustle and bustle of the market shoppers, Dojo should be your first choice for coffee. They offer to go cups & "for here" cups for all of their drinks. You can take your coffee outside to any of the red tables and simply return your glass when finished. My go to is the Cuban Cordato, my mom loves their lattes, and the regular coffee is great. They are known for their gelato, which is also excellent. A little taste of Italy in OTR!
(5)Bianca D.
Dojo gelato is quality stuff! At about $5 a cup it had better be worth it! And it was. A cozy little stand that greets you at the entrance of Findlay market, it easy to see why this stuff won best of Cincinnati. I commented on how beautiful the espresso machine was and the manager told us it was custom made for dojo, with their custom color of "dojo blue" the side showed the inner workings with a display light. Like a steam punk espresso machine! I tried the fig orange, which I loved, and I hate figs...but the description had "fat kid" and "cake" in it, so I was sold. The other half of my cups real estate went to fleur de latté, basically sweet cream. It was delicious. My friend had vanilla, which I tried and it was also great! The Flavors were fabulous, the texture was smooth with no crystallization, I just wish the temperature was a little lower. I like my gelato more on the frozen firm side rather than soft serve texture. Each cup, small or large, had the option of 2 flavors. Then you can get a super combo with four flavors for around $6. With afagattos and gelato"wiches" made with 2 fresh baked cookies just around the corner, I'll definitely be back.
(4)Rick B.
This is another one of those treats that you'll find in Cincinnati's historic food and farm shopping area - Findlay Market. All the way at the end of the inside market walk, across the stall that Colonel De uses, is this little gelato place. If you are in the Findlay Market stop by here ... lush gelato that you can walk the market with. Good stuff. Fresh made daily and they sell a great cup of coffee too. Not a lot to say other than Try It.
(4)Toree C.
The customer service here is fantastic! The staff is bubbly and helpful; which really upgrades the experience. The gelato is delicious, I personally had the Bourbon Vanilla and the Vietnamese Coffee. Both were memorable in the best way. I look forward to trying their other offerings.
(5)Stephanie O.
There is literally nothing more satisfying than a pretty, breezy day walking around Findlay with a cup of Dojo Gelato. There really isn't much to say about this place other than you need to try it immediately, and then you need to come back 4+ times a week. My personal favorite is the espresso (made with their own espresso!) and sweet cream. I won't bore you with a 5 page novel explaining my devotion to how perfect this place is, I will just go tell you to try it. And love it. Because it's amazing.
(5)Jessi G.
Every time I see the Dojo Gelato truck out and about (basically at every festival, concert, or craft fair in Cincy) I stop and get their gelato because it is the best in town! They always have very interesting flavors (I recently had Captain Crunch gelato, and it legit tasted like a bowl of cereal from my childhood!), and their ice cream is consistently smooth and creamy. Their prices are kind of high (almost $5 for a small bowl with two types of gelato), but it's worth it for a special treat! Keep doing what you do, Dojo Gelato!
(5)Sal R.
Yum! The gelato here bursts with flavor, and they switch up the flavors all the time. I want the coffee that makes the Vietnamese Coffee flavor. Take home a pint ($8) and they'll put 1 or 2 flavors in, one on top of the other. Combining the malted milk + coffee is amazing, and the employees have always been quick and friendly. The pint price is not unreasonable to support a local business with high quality. However, it's just high enough to give only 4 stars. It'd be better if I got some perk for how much money I spend there monthly, like a "buy two" special deal or a frequent customer card.
(4)Andrea J.
We had their truck at a work event, but the actual location in Findlay Market has more selection. Its at the end of the market, on the corner. If you're a salted caramel fan, this gelato does not disappoint!! Creamy rich flavor. Just wish the scoops were bigger!!
(4)Ryan M.
This place is absolutely wonderful. I don't think there has been a flavor that I have not liked. The consistencies of the gelato are always spot on and perfect. The flavors are never too much or too little. I do have some beef though, they brought a wonderful flavor called peanut butter jelly time and had it for just a little bit and I have not seen it since. This flavor is by far my favorite, so if somebody from this company reads this bring back the peanut butter jelly time! They have a truck to shows up to different places and constantly active in the community and you can get them behind Eli's barbecue which I've written a review on already and is also phenomenal these two in a combination can't be beat. Do yourself a favor and go to Findley Market this summer and enjoy a nice cold bowl of their gelato.
(4)Jennifer R.
In the interest of full disclosure, I know the owner. However, even if I didn't know him from Adam, I'd still be obsessed with it. You know you've found a good stand at Findlay if you can't get near it. Dojo is right by an entrance and most often you will find the area clogged. But be patient, it's worth it! My favorite is actually a sorbetto, the lemon rosemary. Every flavor I've tried has been fantastic. Love the olive oil, lavender honey, pistachio and egg nog. Don't be afraid of the "weird" flavors that don't seem to belong in gelato--if you give them a try I promise you'll see that Michael's interpretation works!
(5)Amy C.
I've definitely had better gelato. I tried the mango sorbet one, and that was 'meh...just ok' at best. The dutch chocolate was better, so it averaged out to a 2 star. Better ice cream in town at graeters and yagoot...I'd pass on this one for sure. Overpriced for 'meh' ice cream. Only positive is that the selection is very interesting.
(2)Amy T.
Oh boy, do I love Dojo Gelato. Every flavor is delicious, from the egg nog with real bourbon, to the nostalgically delightful Cap'n Crunch. The owners are wonderful (I am acquainted with Mrs. Dojo from Miami U events), but the regular staff are just as knowledgable and friendly. If you're curious about a weird flavor (like the curiously delicious Olive Oil), don't be shy - ask for a taste! My next order will be for my gelato affogato-style - a shot of La Terza espresso over some fabulous flavor of the week. Yum!
(5)Juliane S.
If you don't like DoJo, you are not human. Made with local fresh ingrediants by hand right in the back of their own little space in Findlay Market. Supporting DoJo is supporting the underdog that really should win....look for their cart and follow them on twitter. I just cannot say enough about this business and how truly good their product is....
(5)Trisha K.
Believe me, I want to like it. I DO! Maybe I just don't have a taste for Gelato or something. I have tried many of their flavors and the only one I would ever be interested in putting in my mouth ever again is the chocolate. I'll probably keep trying and in turn, keep wondering why.
(3)Chang Z.
Not a fan of gelato. But the flavor is really good! Kind of forget which ones I chose, but you can taste everyone before determine which flavors to go!
(5)Brittney B.
I had the strawberry balsamic sorbetto, sea salt caramel and Nutella flavors they were all fantastic! The cashier was really helpful and let me try lots of flavors, I'm indecisive, and I really appreciate her patience. I will be back very soon, this is my favorite gelato!
(5)Will M.
For any complaint any may have about the culinary offerings of Cincinnati, there's no room to argue with their frozen treasures. I guess it's heritage, with Graeter's, but Dojo carries the torch (as does the underrated Hello Honey.) It's impossible not to love Dojo, and impossible to hit Findlay Market without trying some. Simply reading the flavors will be enough to intrigue you. I highly, highly recommend the Peanut Butter Sriracha, which is one of the best flavors of anything I've had, as well as the Apricot Cinnamon (which tastes like a cobbler.) The true winner, though, is an Affogato, which is an espresso with two scoops. I hate coffee, but love coffee ice cream, and putting two scoops of Salted Caramel gelato in espresso is an absolutely genius idea. The staff is quite friendly, even when working long shifts in Washington Park (amazing on a hot day.) Really, Dojo is just fantastic.
(5)Lauren M.
The first time I had gelato was in Austin, Texas. You know, since Texas is a state known for decent gelato. (It was good stuff, though!) My second experience with gelato was Dojo Gelato at a Yelp event. I think I was impressed, but the flavors didn't wow me. (Though to be fair, it was around the winter holidays and one of the flavors was eggnog, which I hate.) What won me over on that occasion, other than free delicious gelato was how personable and downright awesome the guys manning the cart were. Next time I saw the Dojo Cart, I stood in a long line at a Crafty Supermarket event in Clifton and they completely got me hooked. Really, guys? Coconut curry flavor? Be still my cold, dead heart. Or no, wait, bad writing metaphor/cliché. Aflutter went my cold, dead heart with the delightful peppiness of curried coconut yumminess. Not shy about mixing flavors, I got a half coconut curry and half cherry order, and it was so delicious, I had to restrain myself from licking the last drop out of the bowl. And I am pretty sure a more shameful person would have been embarrassed with the way I cleaned the spoon afterwards. Dojo Gelato: if you see the cart, they are worth whatever they're charging and a lengthy wait (if there is one). They are also worth a follow on twitter @dojogelato. Anytime I have mentioned them, they always thank me back in such a way that it's obviously not a thank-bot. Yay for fun customer service and a delicious product!
(5)Bill E.
When I come to Findlay Market to shop a must stop is Dojo, The workers are so friendly and nice and make a great cup of hot cocoa and from what friends say a great cup of coffee. Onto the Gelato, they always change the flavors weekly and I like that, it gives customers more opportunity to try different flavors. My favorite they have made was like Alex said Captain Crunch and I love the sorbets like grapefruit sorbetto. Mexican Vanilla is divine as well. Cincinnati's best Gelato.
(5)Jorge T.
Dojo means "training ground" in Japanese, but at Dojo Gelato in Findlay Market, they can take the training wheels off. The Vietnamese coffee gelato is not just inspired, it is sheer masterful genius. For more "traditional" flavors, the Dutch Chocolate and Bourbon Vanilla take basic to another level with purity of flavor. Add to that Dojo's commitment to hormone-free dairy products, no artificial flavors, and priority to sourcing ingredients locally, and you can have your taste carnival and feel good about it.
(5)Becca E.
Can I add stars? Just multiply these stars because 5 is not good enough. Why do I love Dojo? Can we start with the flavors? Oh the flavors! I am actually partial to the fruit sorbettos myself, but never would I think I would want a frozen dessert with cilantro in it. But there it was and it was delicious!! I love the fact that I can sample any of the flavors before having to commit. I love that I can get multiple flavors per cup and that the bigger the cup the more flavors I get. I love that my brother, one of the pickiest eaters I know and one of the people who rarely shows any enthusiasm will not only go with me and try different flavors but actually seems to be enjoying himself. I love that going there feels like a special treat after a hard week. I love that they have a card where I can see just how much Dojo I have eaten and when I have eaten the right amount, I can get some for free. I love that they have a cart which goes to the Hyde Park Farmer's market which is right around the corner from me. This is one place you cannot miss.
(5)Jessica S.
I LOVE THIS PLACE. My mom and I stopped here to get some gelato for my sister's birthday. We picked up a pint of The Elvis and Kit Kat. My sister LOVES Kit Kats so it was perfect that they had it for her birthday. We all loved the Elvis too. It had a great banana flavor. While we picked up the pints we had to (of course) gte some to go. I had half pistachio and half blackberry. My mom had half vanilla and half lemon. I am going to say hands down out of all the gelato I've had from Dojo the Pistachio was the best. I love it. I dream about it at night. The rest were great too- I tried the lemon and loved it too- I am a big fan of lemon flavored things and it was very lemony and delicious. Also everyone was very friendly. Overall it was an excellent experience. Can't wait to try some more flavors!
(5)Dan B.
I'm not a huge ice cream or gelato person unless I have a sudden craving for it. Dojo is a place where I definitely like to go when I want something sweet. They are always helpful and willing to let you try the flavors before you buy. Not only do they have your typical flavors but they like to mix it up by carrying some unusual and some gourmet options. One of my favorites was a very spicy chocolate gelato, which was surprisingly spicy but in a really satisfying way. They also serve really good coffee and sell it by the pound as well. If you are at findlay market or if you want gelato you should definitely give Dojo a shot.
(5)Brieanne S.
Holy heaven in my mouth!! This place is amazing!! I know that I have made it pretty clear that I am a loyal Graeters fan but I will be open and honest about my secert affair with Dojo. Anyone that has been here knows exactly what I'm talking about. And if you haven't been here...well....WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! The ever-changing list of flavors keeps me coming back for more. Not sure what to get? They will gladly offer you samples of anything you want to try. Narrowed your choice to 2 flavors but still can't make that final decision? Then get both. Yes, you can totally do that! I love ice cream-one of my guilty pleasures. And if I had Dojo readily available to me 24/7, lets just say the only thing that would be unhappy would be my scale.
(5)Shay F.
dojo cart catering! price is awesome, service is awesome. do it!
(5)Jerry N.
Ants on a log gelato--what?! That is correct. If you remember this childhood snack with fondness (celery stalk, peanut butter, with raisins lined up like little marching ants), first introduced to me by one Mr. Rogers, then this flavor would leave you reeling. I'm pretty sure my brain STILL hasn't fully comprehended what it experienced while enjoying this delectable treat ("celery + gelato = DOES NOT COMPUTE"). But I know it was delicious. They had tons of other awesome sounding flavors, but since I paired my AOAL with chocolate (also appropriately fantastic), I can't comment on those. My wife had...something or other. Much more boring than mine, whatever it was. But I'm sure it was fine. The staff (was it Do? Was it Jo? Was it Dojo owner Michael Christner?) was super friendly and inviting. I'm a fan, and when life next finds me in Cincinnati, I will make Dojo Gelato a top priority.
(4)Sal R.
Yum! The gelato here bursts with flavor, and they switch up the flavors all the time. I want the coffee that makes the Vietnamese Coffee flavor. Take home a pint ($8) and they'll put 1 or 2 flavors in, one on top of the other. Combining the malted milk + coffee is amazing, and the employees have always been quick and friendly. The pint price is not unreasonable to support a local business with high quality. However, it's just high enough to give only 4 stars. It'd be better if I got some perk for how much money I spend there monthly, like a "buy two" special deal or a frequent customer card.
(4)Andrea J.
We had their truck at a work event, but the actual location in Findlay Market has more selection. Its at the end of the market, on the corner. If you're a salted caramel fan, this gelato does not disappoint!! Creamy rich flavor. Just wish the scoops were bigger!!
(4)Amy E.
Dojo Gelato-- creamy, interesting flavors, great customer service. Vietnamese coffee is delicious, and paired well with Nocciolo-- and I should have thrown some Dutch Chocolate in that mix. Really, all the flavors are good-- the classic ones, and the more interesting ones. There's a gelato place in Vancouver that has 134 flavors, including crazy ones-- but the problem with that place was that the gelato, while it had interesting flavors (kim chee, Guinness), the gelato was not that good. NOT the case for this place. You get interesting flavors with the quality gelato. I suppose there aren't that many flavors on any given day, but no worries, because you can't go wrong with the flavors that are offered. So go get yourself some gelato!
(5)Ed J.
Top notch gelato - the Vietnamese coffee is a favorite, but the best thing to do is try the crazy favors. I once had a cup half and half consisting of chocolate with chili on one side and pumpkin ale on the other. I didn't mix them but they were very good juxtaposed. Best combo I had there was Dutch chocolate with Captain Crunch in the same cup. Go and try the special flavors - you won't be sorry. Dojo also has fantastic espresso - a great pick-me-up after roaming around Findlay Market for an hour or so.
(5)Ben N.
Forget about the Graeter's vs. Aglamesis debate. Both are fantastic, but Dojo Gelato makes and sells the best ice cream in Cincinnati. (And, yes: Gelato IS ice cream. It's just a different type of ice cream....) Five stars for the Dojo product: The creaminess of the texture and the concentration of flavor beats all of the local competition, as good as some of it is, hands-down. The pleasures here are simple, but they are intense. Only reason to scale back a star is the prices, which are quite high. ($3.75 for an itty-bitty serving?!) But I'm not going to do it. This stuff is obviously hand-made in small batches with quality ingredients, and I recognize that this isn't anything close to cheap to do. Just one more of many excellent reasons to visit Findlay Market.
(5)Lindy T.
Believe it or not, I visit the Dojo not for gelato (although it is great)....I come here because it is the very best latte in the entire city, hands down. The barista knows his stuff and pleases this coffee geek each and every time. And they change out the coffee roasters often so you get to taste something new, sometimes local, sometimes not. Love it, keep up the good work.
(5)Jessica N.
Dojo is awesome. Every time I go here, I get something different, and it's always great. So great that I almost always buy a pint ... or two. The owner is really cool as well. I've had conversations with him on multiple occasions and he is really laid back and helpful. Flavors I can recommend: FLUFFERNUTTER!, captain crunch, gingerbread (was most likely seasonal), olive oil, egg nog (also most likely seasonal), dutch chocolate, almond, their coffee flavor ... and, well, any flavor they are offering, basically. Oh yeah, their hot chocolate is YUM. It's real hot chocolate, as in they melt the chocolate right there and do it up. I got the hot chocolate with the cayenne pepper, which might be a little too spicy for some, but it's so creamy and rich. The pints are upwards of 8 dollars but it's worth it to me.
(5)John B.
This past weekend included a long overdue trip to Findlay Market and while enjoying some great cheese from Krause's, bread from Skirtz & Johnston, and some grub from Fresh Table, we struck up a conversation with a woman that happened to be the wife of Mike the Dojo Gelato owner. Cool! After our lunch, we headed to Dojo and decided on the Cap'n Crunch and Grapefruit sorbetto. Both flavors were great and so fresh and yummy. The small size is just the right amount to share when you don't have much room left for sweet stuff. I grabbed a sticker from the counter and, as part of the very unofficial Dojo ninja street team, I'll have to place it somewhere that will get maximum impact. While we were there we heard another customer ask about having some chocolate offerings, as they did not really have the widest variety of flavors this time. Oh well, I know they change up their flavors all the time. As per their website, they do cater, so I'll have to talk to my boss about having Dojo at our next work function.
(4)Dr. E.
One of the better frozen treats I've had in the midwest. A little pricey, but a good reward for a hard week of work.
(5)Laura G.
Well, I went on a diet yesterday but that just flew out the window. Oh Walnut & Banana gelato, you ruined me! However, my guilt was totally worth it. The serving sizes are generous and I can guarantee that you'll find something that tickles your fancy. It was 35 degrees outside when I picked up Dojo but I didn't let that stop me. The owner is beyond friendly and knowledgeable. He just seems to know what flavors will go great together and *poof* they do! Creamy, cold heaven right in my cup. Amen to that.
(5)Jessica S.
I don't know why it took me so long to write a review for Dojo Gelato! It's beyond ice cream... beyond simple confections you can find anywhere else... it's creamy, delicious creativity! Located at a far end of Findlay Market, there are a number of flavors of gelato from which you can choose: from the simplicity of vanilla or chocolate, to the slightly more insane Captin' Crunch or Hot Chocolate (it's spicy, yum!), and everywhere in between. My personal favorite is to get a small (hey, I have to portion-control somehow!) with half Nutella gelato and half Vanilla Bean gelato. Another honorable mention is Vanilla Bean and Veitnamese Coffee. Just thinking about this place makes me want to grab my keys and go to Findlay Market for a gelato fix... maybe I will...!
(5)Mike M.
LOVE IT. michael is the man and dojo is the tops. all the flavors are good. period. not much more to say here except that, if you have not been to dojo, then you best get movin'!
(5)Adolfo N.
Creamy, fatty, delicious. Adventurous flavors to go along with some standard treats. Be sure to ask for a flavor pairing from the staff if you don't have a favorite. They will treat you right, and as always, ask for a sample, no need to waste money on a flavor you aren't going to love. Expect to pay about 5 bucks per person, servings are a little smaller, but its for your own good. You don't want to become Fatty McButter pants overnight do you?
(4)Jeremy B.
This was the second stop in my Findlay visit last Friday, and it was added to the list of places I regret finding shortly before I leave... Oh Dojo Gelato, why did you never just come get me from my house? Well after talking to the owner, I imagine that would be quite difficult, considering he dedicates his life to this work. He told me a cool story, a true stick-it-to-the-man saga, a real f&*k-the-marching-ants tale where he broke free of his corporate job to open up this gelato stand. And he is just as thankful for doing it as his patrons are, even though that seems hard to believe. I had to indulge, so I got the $5 four-flavor cup, and let him choose with one caveat: I get the Cap'n Crunch. This intrigued me so much that it had to be included, but he chose for me the Sam Adams Double Chocolate Bock, the Pistachio, and a Cherry (I think it was Cherry Amarena, not Ameretto). They were all delicious and the Cap'n Crunch was as good as advertised. It tasted exactly like the cereal, but was a completely different experience considering the form in which it was presented. Oh Dojo Gelato, I'm sorry I found you so late, but mark my word: I will return.
(5)Rachael G.
I love gelato, so it would be hard for me to have anything negative to say about Dojo. On a beautiful warm sunny day, one can sit outside of Findlay Market with a cup (or cone, the cones are unique and delicious, the sweetness doesn't hit you til the end) of gelato and think, "man, life can't get much better than this." I had the Chocolate n' Porter and it was great, it tasted like a dark chocolate; it was also very rich as I couldn't finish one tiny scoop (a rarity for me). I just wish they had more flavors at any given time, but I suppose this will only entice me to keep returning frequently, to see what new and interesting flavors they have come up with.
(4)Sarah F.
A trip to Findley Market is not complete without a dish of Dojo gelato. It's dense, rich, creamy and packed with flavor. Some very unusual flavors too! (on my last trip one of the offerings was "Fat Elvis" with banana, peanut butter, and bacon!). So far, my favorite (while certainly not the most adventurous) is a small Dutch chocolate and Hazelnut. It tasted like a chocolate truffle in ice cream form. Yum! Yes, it's a little pricey, but you're paying for quality here, people! Also, you can get multiple flavors per cup for the same price (2 in the small, 4 in the large). And trust me, it's so rich that a small is plenty for 1 person!
(5)Jaime S.
DOJO!!!! If you have been to Findlay Market, aren't lactose intolerant or a vegan and you haven't had Dojo you need to reevaluate your priorities. Everything about this stand is perfect, of course the Gelato is great, but you know they are good people when the free company stickers are a play on tasting spoons and the Black Flag bar logo! This isn't ice cream, this is so much more. Ultra creamy and silky smooth, this frozen treat has no equal in the area. Sure, we are blessed with several great ice cream shops in Cincinnati, but remember this isn't ice cream. A simple look at the constantly rotating flavors and you know you are in for something special. With standards like mexican vanilla, dutch chocolate and salted carmel side by side with creative flavors like fluffernutter, captain crunch and the notorious sriracha peanut-butter this is OH! OH! OH! AND THEY MAKE HUDY GELATO!!! YES HUDY GELATO!!! Sorry where was I? its good stuff. Dojo is more than just gelato though. They have some of the best coffee in the area and several different floats ranging from coffee and gelato to the truly magical El Mariachi, Mexican Coke and the Mexican Vanilla float. Do yourself a favor, eat more Dojo! 4 out of 5 doctors recommend at least one serving a week!
(5)Kennie G.
Dojo managed to simultaneously enchant me and blow my mind. A friend of mine hipped me to Dojo a while back when she brought me some Porkopolis gelato. Wrap your mind around this: maple flavored gelato with bits of BACON. Bacon makes everything better, right? Actually, the jury is still out on that. My tastebuds were muy confused! This flavor blew my mind, and even thought I'm not sure I liked it, I immediately knew I'd be back for more. The next flavor I tried was lemon ginger, and boy was that one yummy. Everything tasted so fresh... it was like a cold bite of springtime. I can't wait to go back for more. Their flavors are never the same every time, so you can always look forward to trying something new, but they will let a few favorites stick around. It's a tad pricey, but it's delicious, and you can tell it's made with love and high quality ingredients. Peanut butter sriracha is the next flavor my friend wants me to try. I'm down.
(4)Hans G.
Meh... maybe I didn't find the right flavor on my first attempt. I got the mint and it was overwhelmingly strong... not what I was expecting.
(2)Lizbeth T.
I love this gelato so much that I stop for a small cup whenever I'm at Findlay Market, even if it means eating dessert before my meal or on a day when I am not really in the mood for sweets. Yes, the flavors change constantly which can make it difficult to find your favorites, but the selection is always so amazing that I usually have a hard time making up my mind and end up mixing two flavors.
(5)Jordan E.
Loved LOVED LOVE IT. Read about this place on yelp and it did not disappoint! I got the 2 flavor cup with Dutch chocolate and salted caramel. It was so yummy and much better for you than ice cream! My boyfriend and I can't wait to return and try some new flavors, and def trying an espresso! Any suggestion espresso lovers ?
(5)Angela C.
Have I really not reviewed Dojo? How could I not have already discussed how I cannot visit Findlay Market without being suckered into buying a little cup of Dojo Gelato. Evil, evil, I say. I love gelato, and I love Dojo Gelato. You won't get your typical gelato here, but who wants that anyway? You will find many fun and funky flavors in creamy delicious form. They sound weird, but taste really good. The tiny small size is plenty for me though, it's that rich. I always get half and half to try two flavors, and haven't been disappointed yet.
(4)Victoria K.
My favorite thing about Dojo Gelato at Findlay Market is the coffee. If you enjoy the luxury of sipping your coffee out of a real cup while watching the hustle and bustle of the market shoppers, Dojo should be your first choice for coffee. They offer to go cups & "for here" cups for all of their drinks. You can take your coffee outside to any of the red tables and simply return your glass when finished. My go to is the Cuban Cordato, my mom loves their lattes, and the regular coffee is great. They are known for their gelato, which is also excellent. A little taste of Italy in OTR!
(5)Dan M.
This gelato stand is a cool idea, but unfortunately, the gelato isn't really that great. It has a good, smooth texture and is prepared the traditional way. However, the other selling point to gelato is the rich flavors. Dojo Gelato kind of misses the mark on that one. The sea salt caramel tastes mostly like salt (so, I guess that's rich, technically), and the chocolate doesn't really taste very chocolatey. It's really unfortunate because I yearn to love everything in Findlay Market. The gelato here is definitely not bad, it's just not really exciting at all. When I have such excellent dessert options as Yagoot, Aglamesis Brothers, and Graeter's in the city, well, I'm just likely to go somewhere else. Bottom Line: I'd be back if I needed dessert at Findlay Market.
(3)Noah G.
Great gelato! I've read great things about this place, and let me tell you they're true! Dojo salvaged my botched trip to Findlay for pho... and made me happy again! I tried the sweet salty caramel, and the diavolo which is a spicy rich chocolate gelato. I've had these very same style flavors elsewhere, at an icecream place, and they did not disappoint at Dojo Gelato either. The diavolo is a deep dark, rich chocolate flavor with a very intense and spicy kick at the end from the ancho and cayenne chile's. I like the spicy afterburn a lot. The salty caramel is creamy and just the right sweetness with a salty kick. To top it all off, the owner at the counter was great. Really nice, and hooked us up with a Dojo sticker! Woot! I'll be back!
(5)Meg G.
I dream about Dojo Gelato. I get cravings for it. It is a welcome addition to what is otherwise a very 'blah' ice cream market, meaning all other offerings are basically the same. Dojo brings a uniqueness factor. The selection of flavors varies, and each batch is handmade with only the freshest ingredients. Some of the flavors may seen strange, (Maple/bacon, really??) but trust me, just give them a try. Like me, you'll find yourself waiting for them to produce that flavor again. And you'll want more. So ahead, have some. It will make your mouth happy.
(5)Amanda S.
We visited Findlay today and I tried Dojo for the second time. The first time, I wasn't so impressed. It was good but didn't rock my world. But today? Today I am a changed woman after sampling the Vietnamese coffee and Fior de Latte. The Vietnamese coffee was beyond fantastic! The coffee flavor wasn't kick-you-in-the-pants intense but it was definitely there. My three-year old niece absolutely loved it. She waltzed through Findlay in a post-Vietnamese coffee euphoria. The Fior de Latte was some tasty business for sure. It's subtly sweet and so creamy. It made me want to hug a cow. And the people there are friendly and it's inexpensive. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area.
(4)Patricia L.
How do I love the Dojo? Let me count the ways... Fior de Latte. Lemon Rosemary Sorbetto. Pumpkin. Nutella. Vietnamese Coffee. Coconut. Amarena Cherry. Apple Cider Sorbetto... And my new favorite Honey Dew Melon. This place is legit. The staff is super-friendly, and of course, the gelato is excellent. Smooth, handmade, and tasty. Sure, there have been a few flavors that I haven't loved, but given the fickle nature of my taste buds and the new selections that pop up regularly, that is bound to happen once in a while. The only real downside is that I can't get my favorite flavors any time I want. However, the creativity at Dojo Gelato more than makes up for that and keeps me happy! Oh, and say it's rainy and you think it's too cold for gelato? Italian Hot Chocolate. Yum. (Also, it's never too cold for gelato! You crazy people!)
(5)Shawna K.
First trip to Dojo left me wanting more! More flavors, more mixtures, more creativity in my gelato creation. One trip is just not enough. I mean, I didn't even get to taste their St. Patty's inspired Guinness gelato! And then after reading other reviews, I hear about wild flavors like Walnut Banana, Captain Crunch, eggnog, and hot cocoa!! The two dudes working behind the counter were friendly, joking with us and let us taste as many flavors as we wanted! Not wanting to hold up the line too much, we went with a salted caramel, mexican vanilla, and mocha flavored gelato and all were dynamite! Smooth, creamy, flavor explosion after flavor explosion in our mouths! And somehow because you think "gelato" and not ice cream, the guilty pleasure doesn't feel as guilty! I can rationalize almost any calorie away! It is right on your way in or right on your way out depending on your market route, but either way, don't come or go without doing your taste buds a favor and hooking em up with some Dojo Gelato!
(4)Josh O.
I'll say this: if you don't like Dojo, there is clearly, objectively something wrong with you. We decided to head to Dojo after a healthy meal at Pho Lang Tang (review coming soon). This, somehow, would be my first time trying Dojo Gelato. I always saw the stand at Findlay Market and the mobile stand at various events, but somehow I managed never to give it a whirl. Today I would not let the opportunity pass and thank goodness I didn't. I was absolutely delighted. It lived up to the extreme praise I've heard from everyone who had tried it. I got two scoops in a cone: one of pumpkin and one of a sweet cream flavor that I am too uncultured to remember (it wasn't in English). Suffice it to say, both were delicious. The pumpkin was perfectly spiced and actually tasted like pumpkin, not artificial flavors. The other was also great, with the rich flavor of fresh cream. It was a nice mix between the two scoops, with the very flavorful pumpkin sitting atop the subtle sweet cream. I loved it, but I still had buyer's remorse. She got two scoops: one of salted caramel and one of pistachio. Out of the four flavors, the salted caramel, IMO, was easily tops. They had a million other flavors, though, from the typical (vanilla) to the waaaay out of the ordinary (kit kat). All I know is that I will be back and I will struggle to pick a flavor. If you're at Findlay Market or see the cart out on the town, don't miss the opportunity. You will regret it.
(5)Amy T.
Oh boy, do I love Dojo Gelato. Every flavor is delicious, from the egg nog with real bourbon, to the nostalgically delightful Cap'n Crunch. The owners are wonderful (I am acquainted with Mrs. Dojo from Miami U events), but the regular staff are just as knowledgable and friendly. If you're curious about a weird flavor (like the curiously delicious Olive Oil), don't be shy - ask for a taste! My next order will be for my gelato affogato-style - a shot of La Terza espresso over some fabulous flavor of the week. Yum!
(5)Jennifer R.
In the interest of full disclosure, I know the owner. However, even if I didn't know him from Adam, I'd still be obsessed with it. You know you've found a good stand at Findlay if you can't get near it. Dojo is right by an entrance and most often you will find the area clogged. But be patient, it's worth it! My favorite is actually a sorbetto, the lemon rosemary. Every flavor I've tried has been fantastic. Love the olive oil, lavender honey, pistachio and egg nog. Don't be afraid of the "weird" flavors that don't seem to belong in gelato--if you give them a try I promise you'll see that Michael's interpretation works!
(5)Juliane S.
If you don't like DoJo, you are not human. Made with local fresh ingrediants by hand right in the back of their own little space in Findlay Market. Supporting DoJo is supporting the underdog that really should win....look for their cart and follow them on twitter. I just cannot say enough about this business and how truly good their product is....
(5)Bradley G.
I don't make it out to Findlay Market very much, but when I do, Dojo is a staple for my visits. And that, coming from the least adventurous, non-dessert loving person you can imagine. But what won me over was Dojo's rotation of flavors, never keeping the same things on the shelves to get boring. Instead, a mix of new and old get thrown together to make a weekly challenge out of what to order. (My personal favorite being the bourbon) I imagine if you're new to Cincinnati, Dojo shouldn't be anything to go out of your way for. It's delicious, but with so many things to take in all over the city, save this for your second trip. But maybe in a few years, that'll change. With the addition of a van and cart, Dojo may grow to be a local must-have. So I would see it wise to keep an eye on this business. Dojo is terrific, and wonderfully simple. The menu -cut and dry- the service, the location, all of it's pretty great, and all of it will leave you eagerly awaiting the next list of flavors. Just writing about it is making me wish I had a pint in my freezer.
(4)Alex S.
I knew I was in love with Dojo when they made Captain Crunch gelato. Even typing that made me love them a little bit more. For those confused (and I know I was) Gelato is: "Italy's regional variant of ice cream. As such, gelato is made with some of the same ingredients as most other frozen dairy desserts. Milk, cream, various sugars, flavoring including fruit and nut purees are the main ingredients. Gelato differs from ice cream in that it has a lower butterfat content, typically gelato contains 4-8% versus 14% for ice cream. Gelato generally has slightly lower sugar content, averaging between 16-22% versus approximately 21% for ice cream. Non-fat milk is added as a solid. The sugar content in gelato is precisely balanced with the water content to act as an anti-freeze, that is, to prevent the gelato from freezing solid." (Wikipedia) Basically, it's a delicious ice-cream like treat. What makes Dojo Gelato so special is they are constantly coming up with new and insane(ly awesome) flavors. Whatever Owner Mike dreams of, he makes it into a frozen dessert. The only real problem is this stuff's so good, it runs out quickly, and when it's gone, it's gone. You have to wait until they decide to make up more of that particular flavor, and that only seems to happen once in a basically never. Dojo is located in Findlay Market, but recently they acquired a custom-painted van to be the massive Dojo Cart that travels the city. Thanks Mike, just what I needed, more chances to eat your treats and get fat. The store also Tweets like crazy at both twitter.com/dojogelato and twitter.com/dojocart . Mmm, delicious tweets. If you're not sold at this point, then check your pulse, you're probably dead.
(5)Bianca D.
Dojo gelato is quality stuff! At about $5 a cup it had better be worth it! And it was. A cozy little stand that greets you at the entrance of Findlay market, it easy to see why this stuff won best of Cincinnati. I commented on how beautiful the espresso machine was and the manager told us it was custom made for dojo, with their custom color of "dojo blue" the side showed the inner workings with a display light. Like a steam punk espresso machine! I tried the fig orange, which I loved, and I hate figs...but the description had "fat kid" and "cake" in it, so I was sold. The other half of my cups real estate went to fleur de latté, basically sweet cream. It was delicious. My friend had vanilla, which I tried and it was also great! The Flavors were fabulous, the texture was smooth with no crystallization, I just wish the temperature was a little lower. I like my gelato more on the frozen firm side rather than soft serve texture. Each cup, small or large, had the option of 2 flavors. Then you can get a super combo with four flavors for around $6. With afagattos and gelato"wiches" made with 2 fresh baked cookies just around the corner, I'll definitely be back.
(4)Rick B.
This is another one of those treats that you'll find in Cincinnati's historic food and farm shopping area - Findlay Market. All the way at the end of the inside market walk, across the stall that Colonel De uses, is this little gelato place. If you are in the Findlay Market stop by here ... lush gelato that you can walk the market with. Good stuff. Fresh made daily and they sell a great cup of coffee too. Not a lot to say other than Try It.
(4)Toree C.
The customer service here is fantastic! The staff is bubbly and helpful; which really upgrades the experience. The gelato is delicious, I personally had the Bourbon Vanilla and the Vietnamese Coffee. Both were memorable in the best way. I look forward to trying their other offerings.
(5)Stephanie O.
There is literally nothing more satisfying than a pretty, breezy day walking around Findlay with a cup of Dojo Gelato. There really isn't much to say about this place other than you need to try it immediately, and then you need to come back 4+ times a week. My personal favorite is the espresso (made with their own espresso!) and sweet cream. I won't bore you with a 5 page novel explaining my devotion to how perfect this place is, I will just go tell you to try it. And love it. Because it's amazing.
(5)Jessi G.
Every time I see the Dojo Gelato truck out and about (basically at every festival, concert, or craft fair in Cincy) I stop and get their gelato because it is the best in town! They always have very interesting flavors (I recently had Captain Crunch gelato, and it legit tasted like a bowl of cereal from my childhood!), and their ice cream is consistently smooth and creamy. Their prices are kind of high (almost $5 for a small bowl with two types of gelato), but it's worth it for a special treat! Keep doing what you do, Dojo Gelato!
(5)Ryan M.
This place is absolutely wonderful. I don't think there has been a flavor that I have not liked. The consistencies of the gelato are always spot on and perfect. The flavors are never too much or too little. I do have some beef though, they brought a wonderful flavor called peanut butter jelly time and had it for just a little bit and I have not seen it since. This flavor is by far my favorite, so if somebody from this company reads this bring back the peanut butter jelly time! They have a truck to shows up to different places and constantly active in the community and you can get them behind Eli's barbecue which I've written a review on already and is also phenomenal these two in a combination can't be beat. Do yourself a favor and go to Findley Market this summer and enjoy a nice cold bowl of their gelato.
(4)Elaine W.
You don't need me to tell you that they have gelato and the gelato is pretty frickin good. What I will tell you is that in the colder months (yes, now), they make Italian-style sipping chocolate. If you have been fortunate enough to try the real thing in Europe, you should be jumping in your seat right about now. Hold your horses, Dojo does a pretty good job, but it is not quite the same as what you get in Italy or Paris (chocolat a l'ancienne). It is just as thick, rich and creamy, but loaded with sugar. High standards aside, if you need a major chocolate fix and you love darker chocolate, this should take care of ya, and I'm not aware of any other place in Cincy that attempts to make sipping chocolate (kudos, Dojo). It comes in a 12 oz cup, which is generous for something this rich, especially compared to its teensy European counterpart. They can even add a shot of espresso if you like. Warning: if you treasure your tongue, do not take that first eager sip. Do not. Wait a little while and then enjoy it slowly. If you are in public, don't be alarmed if people give you weird stares. You'll soon realize why when you give yourself a chocolate-stained grin in the mirror.
(4)Jess H.
AFFOGATO. You must try it. I had it with a couple scoops of the chocolate gelato. Espresso + chocolate gelato = Heaven Of course, you can combine any gelato with the amazing espresso. A million thanks to the staff member who suggested this amazing concoction! She was very excited about my decision to try it.
(5)Katie H.
Today I made my first visit to Dojo! I love the atmosphere of Findlay Market, so that gets them off to a good start. I have to say I went in with high expectations...and that might be why I ended up being disappointed. I was told by friends and saw on their Facebook page that they usually have very unique flavors, but I guess I went in the wrong day. I sampled the Salted Caramel first - the flavor didn't have quite enough depth to pull off the sweetness. I sample the pumpkin and it was pretty nice. I sampled the Dark Chocolate and it was very yummy, but I didn't want to go with such an everyday flavor. When I asked what flavors were the most popular, I was the Salted Caramel, Dark Chocolate and Coffee. So, I gave the coffee a try and it was by far the best! I ended up taking home a pint of Pumpkin and Coffee. Over all I was pretty pleased with the quality of the gelato, I just had different flavor expectations. Definitely worth a visit in case they switch up the flavors soon.
(4)Henry J.
Dojo Gelato probably serves up the best gelato in the Cincinnati area. The texture is exceptionally smooth and creamy. There are an abundance of unique flavors that always make me go: "Wait, that can be made in to a dessert??" Examples of the surprising flavors: Coconut curry (Yum! to me) Olive oil (eh...) Chocolate wasabi (yay) Fior de latte (simply cream!) Vietnamese coffee (tastes like the real thing) Banana and bourbon (didn't like it) I was very tempted to dock a star from this review because certain gelato flavor staples, such as pistachio, are not part of their permanent flavors. Flavors almost always change here. But despite that shortcoming, their unique flavors make visiting here almost always an adventure.
(5)Katharine F.
Dojo is a family Cincy favorite. The Vietnamese coffee and Pistachio brings us together and the ever changing menu keeps us coming back. Coffee is excellent as well, and justifies having gelato in the morning with your cup of joe.
(5)Khoa N.
Love their Gelato! Tried their Vietnamese coffee with espresso. Not sure what their hours of operation is but you can guarantee that they will be there in the weekends.
(4)Tony S.
Little pricey but amazing Gelato.. Don't know I can add much more than what's already been said. They make all their own gelato and have seasonal flavors. I would recommend checking them out for dessert.
(4)Jeremiah A.
I really enjoyed the raspberry and goat cheese gelato. I also sampled the dutch chocolate and it was great as well. I would definitely return.
(4)Katie W.
Super tasty gelato, just one star off because there weren't that many flavors (compared to other bigger ice cream chains). I had the Churro and Bellini gelatos and I have no complaints. Salted caramel tasted good but a little on the sweet side. Will def go back and try other flavors!
(4)Zack F.
I'm giving them an extra star because their espresso is better than many of the coffee shops I've been to around town lately. I had the affogato. Oh my deliciousness overload. The espresso mixed with the dark chocolate gelato enveloped me in a rich velvety embrace. I couldn't decide whether to chug it down or savor it slowly.
(5)Steve H.
Simply amazing, someone with passion makes this great, creating outside the box, not typical vanilla n chocolate place exotic flavors. Staff friendly and knowledgeable. Thanks you do well
(5)Linsey G.
I typically don't love ice cream, but I love me the occasional Dojo. In fact, I had it for lunch just a few short weeks ago at Crafty Supermarket. I don't particularly like caramel anything, but everyone seems to love the Salted Caramel variety. Instead, I have found my one true joy in the Churro-flavored gelato. I've also tried a handful of other flavors (Fior de Latte, Pumpkin, and its variations of chocolate and vanilla), which have been good, but the Churros! Additionally, no matter where I've found Dojo (its flagship in Findlay Market, or its stands at Crafty Supermarket and Taste of OTR to name a few), the workers have been unbelievably friendly. It's a bit pricey, but I love it.
(4)Christine M.
Dojo Gelato is the end to a lot of good things- a successful day at the market, a great meal, or an otherwise bland afternoon. I like the Vietnamese coffee, vanilla, starchiatella (standard-ish fare) but love their combinations. The peanut butter and jelly, peanut butter and siracha (see a pb theme here and my totally lack of awareness of how to spell that tasty hot sauce). I've had great sweet, savory, and otherwise traditional flavors here. Typically, though I do love what they're slinging, I split a small with the husband because I find it keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. Also, I always want more the next time around. The flavors are intense, fulfilling, interesting. Love this place!
(5)Sandra F.
Great customer service and awesome Gelato. I went on a Sunday which was pretty busy. I was greeted and helped right away. The gentleman told me if there are any flavors I want to sample to let him know. I sampled the lemon ginger and was not thrilled. I ended up purchasing the salted caramel gelato. It was so good! I got it in a small cup which was tiny, but I didn't need much. I just ate lunch. It was just the right size, however the pricing I thought was a little high. $4.50, but great quality. I would definitely return and try another flavor. Located in Findlay Market.
(4)Lia V.
It just tastes so good when it hits your lips! The only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because the prices are outrageous... however... it's friggin' worth it. $4.50 for a small and that is all you need because this stuff is flavor dense. The dutch chocolate is just how I like my men - dark, luscious and rich ;-) I mean this is no comparison to the real stuff in Italy, but this gelato is pretty wonderful.
(4)Katie F.
Dojo is DELICIOUS. I love the chocolate gelato... it's creamy, rich, and like heaven in a spoonful for sweet tooths like myself! You may be surprised by how small the servings are - I was at first. But this gelato is so rich and filling that the smaller size is totally appropriate. It's not like ice cream. Don't be scared to ask for samples, the staff is super friendly and always really helpful. My only complaint is that it's a little too expensive for me, especially their coffee options.
(4)Katie F.
This is not a review for the gelato, but for the espresso. I don't know if it was an off day, or what, but I ordered a double espresso and (it took a while to make) when I tried it, it tasted so burnt and sour that after some debate, I returned and asked for a new one. A guy who looked in charge apologized and pulled the next serving himself (and I get that making espresso is kind of time consuming, but at this point I had waited about 10 cumulative minutes for 2 little cups of espresso in a very packed area and was a bit frustrated/embarrassed). Unfortunately, he did not use a spoon or straw to taste it himself, handed it to me, and (again) it had that bitter/sour/burnt flavor, and was unpalatable. At that point I was not going to complain and wait again in such a busy/packed space, so I walked out and just threw it away. I'm sure there was a less passive-aggressive way to resolve this, but at that point I was done, and their vibe did not seem to overly seek out feedback (eg: "Hey, so sorry it didn't work, please let us know if it's ok, it's no problem if it's not...") so the easiest solution was just to walk away.
(2)Regina R.
This place rocks! Super friendly staff. Amazingly delicious, good quality gelato with funky fun flavors. I was kind of sold on Vietnamese coffee, but instead went for Nocciolo and Dutch Chocolate. Delicious. Next time though I'm going to follow the server's advice and order one of those gelato doused in espressos (names some cute Italian word for "drowning"). I do wish they had more options to choose from, but honestly, that's probably not a good idea considering I still had trouble choosing! Next time I'm totally going to get an Italian hot chocolate...ummm...right after my gelato espresso thingy...Ok, this may involve multiple trips. We sat at the little counter and enjoyed our gelato, chatting with the staff. So nice! Now we just need to have some sort of event so that we can hire one of their Dojo carts. Seriously, it's going to happen.
(4)Han L.
I stumbled upon this corner vendor while exploring Findlay market. They had a very interesting selection of flavors; Vietnamese coffee, lavender honey, and OLIVE OIL (?!?!), to name a few. There's 12 flavors total. Well, being Vietnamese, I gravitated towards the Vietnamese coffee flavor. Hot diggity, it reminded me of the cafe du monde brand coffee that old Vietnamese folks drink. It had a rich flavor. The olive oil was interesting. I was thinking to myself, man, what the hell does olive oil taste like? Well, it was good and I would agree it's "olive oil" I am eating. It's a light , clean flavor actually. Ok, the lavender honey was fantabulous. It was fragrant, but not perfumed. It actually reminded me of honeysuckles. Anywhichway, this place rocks. I like the efficient use of metal spoons instead of plastic, disposable ones. They also sell drinks here. Minus .05 pts for minimum five dollar cc/debit card use, so bring cash if you're planning on a small purchase!
(5)Shelbi R.
I had the pleasure of trying this while I was at Bunbury Music Festival last month. I got the vegan strawberry option and it was phenomenal. It's rare that you find a place that has a vegan option, not to mention a vegan option that is amazingly delicious! It was creamy just like ice cream and really refreshing. I bought two cups of it that day. I highly recommend this place!
(5)Stacy S.
Went to Findlay Market on a Sunday just because we wanted to, and we were blown away when we saw the cool flavors. Had to try the Madtree gelato and the taste was astounding. I didn't expect it to really taste like the beer, but it really did. It was so interesting, but in a way that I talk about it to everyone. We bought a small and it was a perfect size, it was very rich in flavor. Definitely will go back. Took a bumper sticker.
(5)Jennifer j.
Awesome. Friendly staff always willing to let you try their crazy but awesome flavors (Captain crunch and pumpkin ale are two of my husband's favorites) and then some more typical but amazing ones- Vietnamese coffee, Dutch chocolate, spectacular lemon sorbet, and the groovy new lemongrass and lime. A trip to Findlay market isn't complete without a trip to Dojo. Plus they also have great hot chocolate, and coffee from local roaster La Terza. Don't miss out on one of the things that makes Cincinnati awesome.
(5)Fuzzysaurus L.
Great gelato in terms of flavor and texture. interesting selection of flavors as well, reminiscent of jeni's in columbus. some are ok, but there are definitely some outstanding ones like "vietnamese coffee" which is AMAZING. that plus no artificial anything and hormone free? Sold! have to thank my foodie buddy for this one as he discovered it!
(5)Maureen B.
Do you know how Cincinnati people get all excited about food that really isn't very good? Dojo Gelato is a rare exception. If anything, it gets better every time I am there. I had the lemon cardamom today and it was wonderful - real flavors, complex flavors, not over-sweet like so much local food. The balsamic something-or-another (cherry?) was also lovely. The staff always gives great recommendations for combinations and that one small cup is more satisfying than a whole pot full of Graeters. It's worth every penny and it makes a real foodie smile.
(5)Marie E.
The nutella is my favorite flavor. I like to go by and pick up a couple of pints when we have people over if I don't feel like making dessert. I have done that twice now and the owner has been great about letting me sample as many flavors as I want before making my choices. He also fills the pints up to the very top which is great and well worth the money.
(4)Chelsea V.
Ice cream of the Italian persuasion... ...in my one stop grocery store ;)- Dojo sits at the entrance of the main pavilion at Findlay market in downtown Cincy. If you aren't familiar with Italian style ice cream, this is the place to get your fix. Don't be alarmed by all it's crazy flavors- Guiness, green tea or even plain chocolate, they are all fantastic. But remember, a little goes a long way- don't need much to appease your sweet tooth. And while your there, don't forget to snag a waffle from Belgium waffles right up the aisle to go with your new favorite cold tastey treat!
(4)Sean B.
A very welcome addition to Findlay Market, the kids at Dojo Gelato are dishing out delicious and creative takes on Italian ice cream. Try the Porkopolis (flavored with BACON!). My new favorite (sorry Madisono's) gelato. *Maybe* my new favorite ice cream.
(4)Stephanie P.
Going to Dojo Gelato is like an adventure. First, you need to push through the crowds in Findlay to get to their stand. Once you do, you are met with friendly faces and delicious treats. The flavors are constantly changing, with a few continuous favorites. Every flavor is so unique-- Mexican vanilla, coconut, eggnog, captain crunch and salted caramel (my absolute favorite!) I absolutely love Dojo, and the fact that they travel around and can be found at various events and street festivals is awesome. Only downside is that it's a little on the pricey side ($4 for a small and $5 for a regular). But, it is so delicious it's worth it.
(5)Steve F.
Some very interesting flavors offered here, making it a neat stop if you're wandering the market and want a little something to cool down with. I'll admit a couple of the flavors didn't please everyone, but that's what you get when you try things like rosewater gelato... by and large most of the offerings were tasty.
(3)Amy C.
I've definitely had better gelato. I tried the mango sorbet one, and that was 'meh...just ok' at best. The dutch chocolate was better, so it averaged out to a 2 star. Better ice cream in town at graeters and yagoot...I'd pass on this one for sure. Overpriced for 'meh' ice cream. Only positive is that the selection is very interesting.
(2)Ryan L.
The Dojo has such unique flavors that I don't where to start. With flavors like Cap'n Crunch, Nutella, Cream Cheese, and many other unique choices, I had a tough time choosing. I took a free taste of some cherry flavor, and enjoyed it. After some debate though, I opted for a Nutella/Sea Salt and Caramel cup. You get two flavors in the small cup ($3.75) and up to four flavors in the large cup ($4.75), so no matter what, you get to try at least two new flavors. Dojo makes their gelato in small batches and they ensure quality ingredients. The gelato was amazing, and was at the same level as Graeter's. I am excited for the summer so that I will have an excuse to visit Findlay Market and enjoy some more gelato!
(5)Rachel R.
I love Dojo! There are always new flavors and they're always tasty! My favorite was the spicy mango... it was like pow in my mouth! And... you can always taste a flavor using their reusable spoons! But no worries, they clean them of course! In fact, I'm going to get some right now!
(5)Chrissy S.
This is yummy stuff! I've been to the location at Findlay Market a number of times, and I even sought them out at the Crafty Supermarket this weekend. I'll admit, there are some flavors that I don't like, but they'll give you a sample if you ask nicely. In conclusion, I think you should try Dojo Gelato. As does everyone else who has reviewed this place!
(5)Liz A.
i am just writing this review to try to harass michael into making coconut. this is the only gelato flavor that i am aware of with its own fan club. michael never makes it because he claims it doesn't sell. anyone who is passing this up is going to have one more item on their list of regrets when they die. COCONUT GELATO FOR LIFE!!!
(5)Michael C.
This is the best gelato in the city for sure. It's not as good as Italy but it'll do in a pinch. I had 4 flavors, Pineapple Express, Vietnamese Coffee, Cherry and another one in forgetting at the moment. Moral of the story is: I have had most of the flavors here and they are all above average. Even the sorbets hold up to the cream based gelato so if you are lactose intolerant like my wife there is still a great alternative that won't twist your bowels in knots! I suggest going on a weekday when you can take your time and mosey around the market without having to gobble it down before it melts from the heat of so many bodies pressed upon each other or someone breathes, coughs, sneezes in your general direction ultimately ruining your dreamy-creamy experience. They also sell gelato on fresh baked cookies as a sandwich to eliminate the waste but it was way too hot outside for it not to be a mess while wearing dress clothes!
(4)Cindy G.
This review is long overdue. As one of the pioneers of gelato in Cincinnati Dojo is simply the best. Located in Findlay Market this is the perfect stop on a weekend afternoon with your family. My boyfriend and I purposely start at the other end of Findlay and when we get to Dojo we simply can't resist. Pistachio is my all time favorite flavor. I love the saltiness and the sweet creamy balance. And they are always rotating seasonal flavors in and out and keeping it fresh! The owner is a gem and really cares about his businesses. See them out and about at events and festivals around town and you can even order them for catering now! What a super fun thing to have at a wedding, or office party. Also love catching them at Eli's after I kill a pork sammie. Because gelato and BBQ are pretty much the perfect summer pair. Stop by and see them, you won't regret it!
(4)Carcharodon M.
I was in for a treat at Bunbury when I came across the Dojo truck! My decision was made for me once I spotted the "Freshman 15" flavor of peanut butter Oreo. I received my scoop at once and even ordered the vegan strawberry balsamic sorbetti for my girlfriend. I'm incredibly impressed they thought to add the vegan option to make ordering much easier for the lactose intolerant folk. My girlfriend enjoyed the sorbetti so much, she went in for seconds. Which usually never happens because stuff like that is usually too tart for her. So two thumbs WAY up! The truck has a very welcoming carefree atmosphere about it in addition to its tasty treats. Even as I trudged past the Dojo truck around 11, they were still hopping! They had some suave music playing, changing colorful lights, and a bubble machine. Totally looking forward to another run in, hopefully soon!
(5)ANais M.
I had a small cup of banana bourbon sorbet. It tasted like unripe bananas (felt like it in my mouth too, that weird stickiness) but was overly sweet. Didn't taste the bourbon. At almost $5 a cup it was a disappointment.
(2)Ryan Z.
Walked past this stand on Saturday and my eyes lit up at the sight of pistachio gelato! I waited in line and went to order a medium cup of the pistachio. Oops... it wasn't pistachio... it was avocado. It had the same coloring that is typically seen with pistachio. Even as an avocado lover, I can't imagine that avocado is a very popular flavor for gelato. The girl behind the counter recommended that I try the Nocciolo instead - describing it as an Italian hazelnut flavor. I wasn't particularly impressed with this flavor and at $5.25 for a 4 ounce serving, I don't see myself trying any of the others any time soon. Now, if I see pistachio on my next visit, I might change my mind.
(3)Princess T.
Seriously the BEST gelato EVER. This place is amazing, they always have a few special flavors, sometimes they're a hit and some times they're just OK. One of my favorite "special" flavors is Churro (Mexican flavor with tons of cinnamon flavor on it). PROS: Do you need any more than it being AMAZING gelato? CONS: None! This place absolutely rocks. TIP: Buy a pint and take it to go. It's always such a delightful treat to have a little gelato for desert after diner at home.
(5)Gale C.
Gelato heaven. And not just " the usual" flavors. Avocado, coconut, sea salt caramel. A " don't miss this because it is awesome" must go!! We sampled and ordered. Simply excellent!
(5)Bruce F.
Great name, friendly staff. Got a mocha, perfect blend between the coffee and chocolate. Tasted some Dutch chocolate gelato that tasted great.
(5)Eric L.
Definitely better than Graeters, but not quite the high art that gelato can/should be. A common case of "trying too hard to impress with unique flavors, but proprietors don't have a very discerning palate" The good: Dutch chocolate: an oldie but goodie, and executed well. Rich dark chocolate and a creamy thick gelato with great texture. Most people do this decently; the differentiating factor was the depth of the chocolate flavor. I bet a little espresso in the milk during the process would really make this pop. The bad: "Peanut butter sriracha" is NOT a dessert flavor for a whole cup. Its a 1/2 teaspoon taste for novelty. However, I understand that novelty sells, so you probably get a lot of sales for this. There's a difference between making money and making gelato though, and I'd prefer if you made gelato. Good marketing ploy though, and the press always likes something different, so you might be winning on this, despite my criticism. "Lemongrass" is a brilliant thought, but separating "Lemon" from "Lemongrass" is the key to making this special. Lemongrass has a subtle flavor to it that would elevate this sorbetto to the next level, but you missed it. "Sea salt caramel" -- I consider this one the biggest failure. Its a common dessert idea to use savory notes, and lots of people do it well. its like you saw someone else do this, but missed the point of having the savory notes. Like the failure to distinguish between "lemon" and "lemongrass", this was just "caramel" not "sea salt caramel". A sexy name does not make a fancy gelato. Cure: bigger pieces of rock salt. As I finish this up, I realize that you HAVE to make flavors like the ones mentioned above in order to get people in the door and to have reporters and articles written about you. But you could definitely do better on lemongrass and sea salt caramel. Ciao Bella is the mark to beat.
(3)Stacey L.
I am a super huge fan of Gelato, so a stop at Dojo is a requirement for any trip to Findlay Market. If you have never tried Gelato before, it is ice creams even creamier cousin. Dojo is one of only a handful of places to get it in Cincinnati. Their flavor offerings rotate regularly, so you never really know what will be there when you show up. It is a nice surprise to see a new flavor you have never tried before! I was a huge fan of their Cap'n Crunch! Servings are small and on their pricier side for what is essentially ice cream. But, think of it as supporting a local business! And their Gelato is really spectacular! They are located right at the front of Findlay near the patio, which makes a quick stop much easier. Service is always quick and given with a smile. Not sure which one you want, they will let you try a sample!
(4)Glenna M.
When I asked @DojoGelato on twitter about a paticular flavor of gelato and what it tasted like, I got the response back that it was as good as getting a hug from a baby Ewok. Now, not being a Star Wars fan (I've never seen any of them) the reference was wasted on me. However, I am a BIG fan of Dojo Gelato. My favorite flavors thus far being the Apple Cider Sorbetto mixed with the Pumpkin . But honestly, I've never put a spadeful into my mouth and said " no no, this is gross take it away" . More likely I used my self defense training in keeping those who tried to "share" with me far far away. Also I'm led to understand they make a mean espresso and coffee so try that too. My advice on Dojo is taste it all, taste it often. Take pints home, take them to your friends.
(5)Emily H.
Does Dojo really need another 5 star review from me? Oh well, I'll give it to them anyway because they deserve another voice saying how awesome they are :) Ever since I had gelato in Italy I wondered, "Why the heck is all ice cream not like this!?" It's amazing and I wouldn't care if I ever ate another kind of ice cream again! So, naturally I was ecstatic to find that Cincinnati has it's own gelato. YUM. When I finally had my first taste I was in love. I love that they have traditional ice cream flavors (Chocolate and Vanilla, but it's no ordinary vanilla) as well as more creative flavors (like Lavendar Honey and Capt 'n Crunch). I had a small serving with a mix of Dutch Chocolate and Salted Caramel. They were both superb! I was torn between those, Nutella and Capt 'n Crunch. I did have a sample of Capt 'n Crunch and I think next time I will try those two flavors... maybe with a shot of espresso on top. Oh yeah, baby. Besides having amazing gelato, they have a great location at Findlay Market. I could get myself into serious sweets trouble in that place so I have to pace myself! Bottom Line: I LOVE YOU DOJO.
(5)Zach B.
just experienced Dojo Gelato for the first time today down at findlay market. I think one of the best things about dojo is their variety of vastly different flavors. I sampled a salted carmel and olive oil. I ended up with Mexican vanilla and a spicy chocolate, the name of it escapes me. the Spicy chocolate had a mean bite to it but the vanilla really cooled it down. they let me sample a bunch of different flavors. The olive oil was strange but i could see how it would be great with other flavors. A regular cup is about 4 bucks and is more than enough serving for something so rich. The staff was friendly. Ill defiantly visit again when I am in findlay market.
(4)Andrea R.
I've been to Italy a few times, and because of this I might consider myself a snob when it comes to gelato. Dojo is about as good as it gets in the USA. My first experience with Dojo was actually at the Hyde Park Farmer's market this past summer. I was told that if I mixed the pineapple-basil sorbet with the salty caramel gelato, it would taste like a pineapple upside down cake. It was absolutely true. Amazing!! I've also tried the dark chocolate, nutella, and pistachio, and of those pistachio is by far my favorite. It's so hard to find authentic pistachio gelato, but Dojo figured out the secret to creating the perfect flavor without the neon green color that many gelato shops offer. As much as I love gelato, though, I don't really crave cold desserts in the middle of winter. But that doesn't keep me away from Dojo. I went to the Findlay Market location this past weekend to try the Italian Hot Chocolate. Also referred to as Cioccolato Caldo and Sipping Chocolate, it really tastes like you're eating a liquid candy bar. AMAZING!!! Sooo rich and thick, but by far, the best dessert drink I've ever tasted. Incidentally, while I was waiting for my hot chocolate to be prepared, I sampled the Fat Elvis gelato. It's a peanut butter gelato with small bits of bacon mixed in. I was a little skeptical, it was actually pretty good. Not sure I'd want to eat an entire cup of it...but that's only because I much prefer straight sweetness to the sweet and savory mix, and the hot chocolate had me covered there.
(5)Allison J.
I think the highest compliment I can give Dojo Gelato is that they think I'm stalking them. I can't help it, when they keep turning up at street festivals and events around town with their amazing gelato, I have to have some. Dojo is constantly mixing up new and adventurous flavors (try the maple and candied bacon Porkopolis if it's available) so it's always fun to see what they've whipped up. They've got a permanent place inside Findlay Market, but you can find the gelato cart at lots of farmers markets around town.
(5)Amy S.
After trying some of the flavors Dojo Gelato had to offer at a Yelp event this past winter, I wanted to stop by while I was at Findlay Market to give it another try. I don't know what I'm missing....maybe I'm just spoiled by Jeni's ice cream in Columbus. Or maybe because I indulged in some Madison's Gelato right before coming here. Either way, I've tasted better gelato.
(2)Eric G.
Hard to believe, but by definition gelato (Italian ice cream) has far lower fat content than premium ice cream or frozen custard. Try any of Dojo Gelato's magnificent flavors and you would swear you are eating a high fat treat. And flavors; ranging from the Dutch Chocolate and Pistachio you might expect, to something slightly out of the ordinary like Vietnamese Vanilla, to flavors you won't find anywhere else, like Dogfish Head Pumpkin Ale, Samuel Adams Double Bock, Porkopolis (with BACON bits) or Matcha Kit Kat (Matcha is a green tea). Try to find those flavors at Baskin Robbins! Don't pass by the chance to stop by their Findlay Market home base or mobile locations at local festivals to try some of this wonderfully original and totally Cincinnati treat.
(5)Leisa W.
Ah, Dojo. Just thinking about them makes me happy and wistful at the same time, like when I remember my days living in Hawaii, or friends that I haven't seen in a while. Happy, because I live within walking distance from Dojo; and wistful, because I don't have any in front of me RIGHT NOW. People--Dojo Gelato is one of the reasons we moved to Cincinnati. OK, we had already decided to move, but it was a confirmation. When we first visited Cincy, we checked out Findlay Market (a wonder in itself), and discovered Dojo. Since it was early May, they had made "Mint Julep" in honor of Derby, and the bourbon & mint taste was so realistic, so amazing, that I felt like a lush for eating it before lunch. We also had the "Peanut Butter Stracciatella", which was rich and like a really high-class Reese's Cup. I've said it before--I adore ice cream. You've no idea how much thought I give to ice cream. It's a sickness, I know. So I'm telling you, I KNOW ice cream, and Dojo is fantastic. They use real ingredients (not flavorings--there was real bourbon in that Mint Julep). They handcraft the stuff, so its made in small batches and when it's gone for the day, it's gone until they decide to make that flavor again. And I won't lie, it's pricey (I don't eat as much as I'd like because of that fact), but if you have the $$, it's absolutely worth it. Treat yourself at their Findlay Market location or when you see the Dojo Cart around town!
(5)Trisha K.
Believe me, I want to like it. I DO! Maybe I just don't have a taste for Gelato or something. I have tried many of their flavors and the only one I would ever be interested in putting in my mouth ever again is the chocolate. I'll probably keep trying and in turn, keep wondering why.
(3)