In Rome, you can come across an ice cream shop in almost every corner of the city. However, there is one particular “gelateria” that stands out in a neighborhood near the Vatican.
SEBASTIÁN PADRÓN
Owner, Padrón Gelateria Artigianale
“They are different because I make a very traditional ice cream without additives, as it was done many years ago.”
This is Sebastián Padrón, an Argentinian from La Plata who opened “Padrón Gelateria Artigianale” near St. Peter’s Square. He offers traditional Argentinian flavors, artisanal methods of production, and even traditional pastries and Argentinian products.
SEBASTIÁN PADRÓN
Owner, Padrón Gelateria Artigianale
We have many Argentinean customers, many Latin American clients, and well, even a very special customer.
He is referring to his favorite customer and the most famous Argentinian among his clients, the one and only Pope Francis.
Since their grand opening, Sebastián has served several Vatican staff members and priests that eventually convinced the pope to taste his products. Pope Francis was so pleased that he sent him a personal thank you letter, a medallion, and this certificate as a symbol of his appreciation.
He says that the pope’s favorite ice cream flavor is undoubtedly Argentinian’s favorite: Dulce de Leche. An ingredient he proudly imports from his native country.
Last week, Sebastián and his family received a very unexpected surprise.
SEBASTIÁN PADRÓN
Owner, Padrón Gelateria Artigianale
“Last week we received a surprise. It was a phone call to thank us for the service that we have with him. For the ice cream and empanadas that we brought him as a gift. He told us if we wanted to meet him, and so we did.”
Sebastián and his family were invited to personally meet the pope in Santa Marta in the Vatican. There, they talked and exchanged gifts. Sebastian says that the attention he gave them, especially to his children, was very touching.
SEBASTIÁN PADRÓN
Owner, Padrón Gelateria Artigianale
“A very simple person, very humble and kind. The thing that moved us the most was when he made a gesture with his head saying that being with us and talking to us made him felt like a neighbor, like feeling like home.”
Sebastián's hard work and perseverance throughout the years has undoubtedly produced him many rewards. He says the most important one has been being able to serve and meet the Argentinian pontiff, that grandfather-like neighbor that he makes him feel at home.
Christian Campos
