The problem with the Strada Franceză in Bucharest’s historic district is that it is entirely too full of options. Cheek-by-jowl, the little restaurants and cafes line the cobbled streets, their awnings, umbrella tables, and colorfully cushioned couches covering most of the cobbles, leaving only the center third of the street for walking. The vivid colors of the cafes stand in stark contrast to the somber grey of the upper floors of the Parisian-influenced 19th century buildings they occupy. Strolling through on a summer evening, everyone in the city and several surrounding countries seems to be here partaking of the multitude of offerings.

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We are not starving, but the late-summer heat has driven us from the hot cobbles to seek refuge inside one of the solidly renovated and climate-controlled cafes. Or in this case, Ice cream parlors. Like all that is new and modern in Bucharest, Cremeria Emilia has undeniable style. The bright white and chrome of the counters, fridges, and work-surfaces absolutely gleam. Little confectionary in displayed in perfectly aligned rows, and retro-style white porcelain ingredient containers line the counters and shelves. The parlor is clean, crisp, bright, and most importantly cool. Surprisingly, though, the climate-controlled upper floor dining area is nearly empty despite the out-the-door line we waited in at the counter. For some reason, every local seems to prefer to order the ice cream and sit in at the tables clustered under the awnings outside.

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We soak up the style of this little parlor. The clean, simple, bright interior is the perfect refuge in which to cool off with well-made ice cream. A little research into Cremeria Emilia shows that this is a franchise out of Italy, but they obviously know what they are doing in making their ice cream. The flavors are rich, and the texture is smooth. All in all, a really pleasing way to beat the late-afternoon heat.