If one wants a taste of Italy in uptown New Orleans but doesn’t have a car or would prefer to walk, look no further than Carrollton Hall.

The formerly vacant spot located between Buddig Hall and Carrollton Hall next to the Turnaround, has a new dining option called La Divina.

Originally, the space was going to be filled by a company called Mellow Mushroom from Georgia. Mellow Mushroom, however, backed out of the deal allowing Katrina and Carmello Turrillo to open up their shop in place of the pizzeria.

“Loyola asked us to be there. They wanted a local, sustainable business that prioritized environmentally friendly equipment, so here we are,” Katrina said.

According to the Turrillo’s, La Divina is the only place in the State of Louisiana that creates gelato from scratch, without pastes or bases.

They use Smith’s Creamery milk from hormone free cows, organic sugar, fresh eggs and local produce.

The menu does not end with gelato. La Divina also serves paninis, a pasta of the day, fresh baked pastries and baked goods such as cake, brownies and cookies.

After consuming the fresh Italian food, one can indulge in an espresso, cappuccino, homemade lemonade, iced tea or imported Italian sodas.

Katrina and Carmello Turrillo say they think they have brought a more refined version of Italian lifestyle to Loyola University, linking great food with friendship.

Katrina Turillo described the connection to Loyola as, ” a good fit with the students and a school with the priorities as La Divina.”

The culture of Italy can be found in the food, along with the special programs La Divina will be instating.

They intend to start an Italian conversation class, host a scrabble night, play an Italian movie once a week and broadcast European football games.

According to Katrina, these programs should be introduced to the student body around the middle of September.

The creamery, open since Aug. 22, has already met with very positive feedback and warm reception from freshmen, parents, upperclassmen and residential life staff alike, satisfying their sweet tooth.

“The food is incredible,” Woody Rinker, general studies freshman said. “I’m so excited it came to campus.” Rinker said he would definitely eat there again.

If you want to have a great time with delicious food and fabulous friendships check out the La Divina Gelateria shop located the bottom of Carrollton Hall.

Catherine Carter can be reached at [email protected]