How One Carmel Restauranteur Increases Business

Gelato Da Vinci, the well-known bistro in Clay Terrace that offers the Italian version of ice cream has decided to take on a new endeavor…a nightly dinner and wine menu! “We needed to change, increase traffic and just do something different,” said Jim Colvin, one of the owners. “To survive a changed economy, we have to reinvent ourselves.”

So Jim and the other owners, his brothers and parents, decided to bring a little bit of Italy to Carmel. By adding the new and unique outdoor dining area, Gelato Da Vinci is able to capture the essence and feel of a true Italian bistro. When I first walked past, it just didn’t look like a typical restaurant in Indiana,” said Christy Nowlin, a local patron. “It was so quaint and cozy…and tasty!”

To improve their sales in 2008, they added their Sunday brunch. After that success, they started looking into the evening market. With lots of research and enthusiasm, Gelato Da Vinci now serves more than just yummy frozen desserts…

Not only did Gelato Da Vinci want to offer the neighborhood with an intimate, Italian dining experience, they wanted an affordable menu as well. “All of our food is prepared to order with all natural and fresh ingredients,” explained Jim. “We also want to take care of our customers, as they take care of us, by offering a moderately priced menu that doesn’t break the budget.” For those just wanting a low-key evening, Jim suggests ordering a glass of the house wine, the Formaggio Quattro antipasta (cheese plate), a flatbread and dessert.

For more information, hours of operation and locations or to make a reservation contact www.gelatodavinci.com or 317-816-9100.

Okay, I’m sold! I’ll never write another article hungry!