Peppermint Affogato at Disney Springs: A Must-Try Holiday Treat!
If you love coffee, gelato, or anything that signals the start of the holidays at Walt Disney World, there’s a new must-try treat waiting for you at Disney Springs. The Peppermint Affogato from Vivoli il Gelato combines the best of both worlds: rich Italian gelato and freshly brewed espresso, all wrapped up in holiday flavor. What’s not to love about that?
It’s festive, cozy, and exactly the kind of treat that makes a Disney Springs visit feel special during the holidays. Whether you’re popping over after a park day or spending a relaxing morning exploring the shops, this is one stop worth adding to your list.
Where to Find It
You’ll find Vivoli il Gelato in The Landing area of Disney Springs, right across from The BOATHOUSE. The shop is a hidden gem, unassuming from the outside but filled with charm once you step inside.
Vivoli il Gelato’s story stretches all the way back to Florence, Italy, where the Vivoli family first began making gelato generations ago. The Orlando location was brought to life by Nick Valenti, the creative mind behind some of Walt Disney World’s most beloved restaurants, including Via Napoli, Tutto Italia, Simply Capri (in Flamingo Crossings) and Space 220. That background alone tells you this is a place that values craft and flavor.
What to Expect
If you’ve never had an affogato before, it’s a classic Italian dessert where hot espresso is poured over cold gelato. The result is a rich, creamy mix that’s equal parts dessert and pick-me-up.
This particular version swaps traditional toppings for a holiday twist. The Peppermint Affogato features vanilla gelato sprinkled with crushed peppermint candy, then finished with a shot of freshly brewed espresso. The espresso melts through the gelato, creating a swirl of sweetness and warmth with every bite.
It’s available for $11, which is right in line with Vivoli’s premium pricing for handcrafted gelato. Guests can choose to enjoy it “for here,” served in a charming ceramic mug and saucer, or “to go” in a paper cup that’s easier to carry if you’re continuing to explore Disney Springs.
The first sip feels like Christmas in a cup. The peppermint balances beautifully with the espresso’s bitterness, and the vanilla gelato softens the whole experience into something silky and refreshing. It’s one of those Disney treats that doesn’t rely on being over the top. It’s simple, elegant, and delicious.
Atmosphere and Tips
If you’ve been to Vivoli before, you might notice a few changes. The shop recently completed a small refurbishment, and while the old window seating has been removed, it’s easy to find a comfortable spot outdoors to enjoy your affogato.
There’s plenty of seating outside, especially across the walkway in the amphitheater area. On cooler days, you might even want to linger there a while with hot espresso in hand, holiday music floating through the air, and twinkling lights around the water.
Disney Springs itself is fully decked out for the season by late-November. Between the Christmas Tree Stroll, the live entertainment, and seasonal merchandise, it’s a destination all on its own. Pairing that festive atmosphere with something warm and sweet like this makes for a perfect little Disney memory.
Why It’s Worth the Stop
Sometimes the best moments on a Disney trip aren’t the ones you plan down to the minute. They’re the small, unexpected breaks that make you pause and smile. That’s what the Peppermint Affogato offers.
It’s a chance to slow down, take in your surroundings, and savor something handmade and flavorful. And if you’re staying nearby at a Disney Vacation Club resort like Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, or Riviera Resort, it’s just a short walk, or bus or boat ride, away.
Vivoli il Gelato also operates a smaller location at EPCOT’s Italy pavilion, so if you find yourself hooked, you can easily enjoy another affogato between rides and World Showcase strolls.
Final Thoughts
The Peppermint Affogato at Vivoli il Gelato is more than a holiday beverage. It’s an experience that captures the joy of the season in every sip. Between its authentic Italian roots, cheerful presentation, and festive flavor, it’s a treat that stands out in a sea of seasonal offerings.
Join me for my first time getting Vivoli il Gelato’s Peppermint Affogato in the video below:
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