Elevated Indulgence: V Gelato Redefines Dairy-Free Dessert in Miami

Source: V Gelato

Reported By: Caroline Dalal

Miami’s Wynwood district is no stranger to creative expression — but just steps from its colorful murals and buzzy cafes, a new kind of artistry is taking center stage. V Gelato, the brainchild of internationally acclaimed Gelato Master Eric Dorval, is fast becoming a destination for the most discerning dessert lovers. It’s more than the best dairy-free gelato in Miami — it’s a love letter to craftsmanship, culture, and flavor.

Every cup at V Gelato begins with a philosophy: that dessert can be both indulgent and intentional. Behind that ethos is Chef Eric Dorval, whose culinary journey spans fine pastry training in Quebec, advanced study at Bologna’s esteemed Gelato University, and an award-winning career on the global stage. Dorval is the first and only North American Gelato Ambassador for the Association of Italian Gelato — a distinction that signals not only technical mastery, but a passion for pushing the craft forward.

His accolades include a Gold Medal at the 2018 Gelato Festival Chicago Championship and international acclaim at the Gelato Festival All Stars in Florence, where he was recognized for creating the Best Beer Gelato in the World. Yet despite his decorated background, the heart of V Gelato is personal: a tribute to his wife, who developed a milk intolerance, and the spark for a dairy-free concept with no compromise on taste or texture.

Chef Eric’s creations go well beyond the standard scoop. The menu at V Gelato features rotating, dairy-free flavors handcrafted in-house using premium, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Crowd favorites include the creamy nostalgia of Strawberry Shortcake, the earthy intensity of Black Sesame, and the fresh, unexpected brightness of Orange Carrot. Each offering is developed with a chef’s precision and an artist’s intuition — designed to surprise, comfort, and delight.

One standout is the Black Pearl, a showstopping blend of black sesame and activated charcoal that’s as complex in flavor as it is striking in appearance. And for those who prefer their gelato with a little extra kick, the affogatos and espresso drinks deliver a refined twist on the traditional Italian pairing.

True to Chef Eric’s mission, even the menu sizing leans into the shop’s signature charm — a small cup is “a little love,” medium is “more love,” and a large is “big love.” This isn’t just branding. It’s a reflection of the experience: warm, welcoming, and elevated.

Set against Wynwood’s artistic backdrop, V Gelato is a natural extension of the neighborhood’s cultural richness. The space itself is modern and minimal, allowing the product — and the story behind it — to shine. Guests can savor their scoops inside the design-forward gelateria or take their cups to go, blending into the rhythm of Miami’s most creatively charged district.

While Miami has no shortage of dessert destinations, V Gelato has carved out something singular: a plant-based gelato experience that’s as luxurious as it is inclusive. Vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, every element is designed to meet the highest standard — not just for dietary needs, but for flavor, texture, and presentation.