Support Kim's Final Gelato Competition

Hi everyone! I’m Kim Zanni, owner and Master Gelato Chef at Gelato di Babbo, and I’m honored to share that I’ve been invited to represent the United States this September at the Scirubetta Festival — one of the most prestigious artisan gelato competitions in the world, held in Reggio Calabria, Italy.

This is an invite-only international event, and I’m proud to say I’ll be the only American competing, standing among the world’s top gelato chefs!

This will also be my final competition. Due to long-term health issues and needing a full ankle replacement, this incredible opportunity is likely the last time I’ll be able to stand behind a competition booth and represent our country doing what I love most — making truly artisan gelato by hand.

I’ve been honored to serve this community through Gelato di Babbo, but due to my health, I’ve had to shift my shop to a limited, part-time schedule, operating just a few days a week. At this point, it’s more a labor of love than a business — something I do to keep the spirit of artisan gelato alive and to bring a little joy to those who come in my shop.

Because of that, I don’t have the financial means to cover this trip on my own. That’s why I’m asking for your help to raise $11,000 to cover:

Travel expenses to and from Italy

Specialty ingredients and prep supplies

Entry and promotional materials to represent the USA with pride

If you’ve ever enjoyed a scoop when you come in my shop, shared a moment of joy over gelato, or believe in lifting up small-town dreams on a global stage, please consider donating or sharing this campaign.

This is more than a competition — it's a farewell, a dream, and a tribute to everything Gelato di Babbo has stood for.

Thank you for your support, your kindness, and for believing in this journey.

With love and gelato,

Kim Zanni

❤️

#Scirubetta2025 #TeamKimZanni #GelatoDiBabbo #SupportLocal #WomenInFood #USAinItaly #OneLastScoop