Gelato Brand Eyes Spring Opening At Home Of Former Annapolis Coffee Shop

ANNAPOLIS, MD — A gelato brand that grew out of childhood memories at an Italian port city is coming to a Maryland waterfront in Annapolis next year.

Pitango Gelato announced Tuesday that its 10th location would be setting up base at 124 Dock St., the space that previously housed Bitty & Beau's Coffee until it closed in September.

Officials are eyeing an opening in spring 2027. The official opening date will be announced at a later time.

Tasting Table rated it as one of the "best ice cream shops to try" in the D.C. region. "If you're traveling with someone lactose-intolerant or vegan, they won't feel limited by Pitango's menu, as half of it is dairy-free sorbet," the outlet wrote.

The new shop will be owned and operated by Sam and Semy Lee, who signed on as the brand's first franchisees in Virginia's Old Town Alexandria.

"Our experience in Alexandria has shown us how much people value a neighborhood place where they can enjoy exceptional gelato and spend time together," Sam Lee said in a statement.

"Annapolis has the waterfront setting and strong sense of community that make it a wonderful fit for Pitango. Semy and I are excited to bring that experience to Dock Street."

Pitango Gelato was founded in 2006 and is known for its selection of gelatos made without any artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. It operates locations across D.C., Maryland and Virginia, including a bakery in Baltimore.

Bitty & Beau's Coffee operated out of 124 Dock St. for several years, and became known for providing employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Related: New Coffee Shop To Open In Annapolis Amid City Dock Troubles

It's closure coincided with the end of its seven-year lease and growing frustrations by local businesses surrounding the ongoing City Dock project, which aims to clamp down on chronic flooding in the waterfront area.

Businesses owners have highlighted that the construction project has seriously impacted foot traffic as nearby parking was reduced. The construction project is expected to continue into 2028.

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