Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Zena
Hi NATALIE, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
How It All Began
Roberto and Natalie’s story starts with a sweet twist. Their first date was at an ice cream shop in Manhattan Beach, but although the date was perfect, the ice cream fell short of expectations. As a lighthearted joke, Roberto, who also works in the culinary industry, suggested they go to Italy, learn the craft of authentic gelato, and open their own shop. Little did they know that this playful idea would soon turn into a shared dream and a real business venture.
A Journey to Italy
True to their word, the couple traveled to Bologna, the heart of Italy’s gelato-making tradition. There, they enrolled in a master class that immersed them in the art and science of creating authentic gelato. For nearly two months, they explored Italian towns, attended fairs, and studied the local ingredients that elevate this craft. This hands-on experience deepened their passion and gave them the foundation they needed to bring something special back home.
The Beginning of a Dream in Los Angeles
Once they returned to Los Angeles, Roberto and Natalie began experimenting in their home kitchen, crafting gelato for friends and family. Their creations quickly gained enthusiastic fans, which motivated them to search for a permanent place to share their passion with the community. They knew their next step was to open a space that could embody the warmth and authenticity they wanted to offer.
Falling in Love with Moorpark
After an extensive search, they found the perfect spot in Moorpark. The charm of the area, along with its welcoming community and beautiful scenery, immediately captured their hearts. They knew this was where they wanted to put down roots. Over the next three months, they worked tirelessly to decorate the shop, navigate the licensing process, and wait for their specialized equipment to arrive from Italy.
The Gelato Ethos
From day one, Roberto and Natalie have committed to quality without compromise. Their gelato is made entirely from scratch using the best natural ingredients. They source fresh products from local farmers and farmers markets to ensure every scoop is packed with flavor. With a focus on inclusivity, they offer gluten-free handmade waffle cones, dairy-free, and vegan options. Che Gelato even caters to pets, offering two flavors of dog-friendly gelato in three variations, ensuring everyone—whether human or furry—feels welcome.
Recognition and Community Support
Although Che Gelato! is still new and not everyone knows about it yet, the city of Moorpark has already recognized their hard work and dedication. In 2024, the business was awarded “Best New Business,” a testament to the couple’s commitment to the community and their passion for creating high-quality gelato. This recognition has reinforced their belief that they are in the right place, doing what they were meant to do, surrounded by a supportive and vibrant community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The Challenges of Opening Che Gelato!
Starting Che Gelato! has been a rewarding journey, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. From the moment Roberto and Natalie returned from Italy, they faced the reality that turning their dream into a business would require patience, perseverance, and hard work. Finding the right location alone was a demanding process, as they wanted a space that not only fit their needs but also connected with a supportive community. Eventually, they found the perfect spot in Moorpark, but that was just the beginning of their hurdles.
Navigating Permits and Regulations
One of the biggest challenges was navigating the complex web of permits, licenses, and health regulations required to open a food establishment. Each step demanded careful attention to detail, from building inspections to health codes, and delays were inevitable. The process was time-consuming, and at times, it felt like a never-ending maze of paperwork. However, Roberto and Natalie’s determination kept them focused, knowing that the effort would be worth it in the end.
Managing Logistics and Equipment
Another significant obstacle was sourcing the specialized equipment they needed from Italy. The delivery process took longer than expected, forcing them to adjust their timelines multiple times. Managing logistics across international borders added another layer of complexity, with customs delays and unforeseen challenges. Meanwhile, they juggled decorating the shop and setting up operations, knowing that every delay meant a longer wait to start serving their gelato to the community.
Perfecting the Product
Even after the equipment arrived, mastering the production process wasn’t easy. Although they had trained in Bologna, creating consistently high-quality gelato on a commercial scale was a new challenge. Each recipe required experimentation to adapt to the ingredients available locally, and there were many trial-and-error moments. The couple was committed to making everything from scratch without shortcuts, which added to the workload but was essential to ensuring the authenticity they wanted to deliver.
Financial and Emotional Pressure
Opening Che Gelato! also came with financial risks and emotional pressures. With savings on the line and the demands of launching a new business, there were moments of uncertainty and stress. Balancing these pressures while maintaining enthusiasm for the project was not always easy. However, the couple leaned on each other for support, sharing the belief that the challenges were part of the process and that their passion would see them through.
Gratitude and Growth
Despite the obstacles, Roberto and Natalie are grateful for how far they’ve come. Every setback has taught them valuable lessons about running a business, problem-solving, and staying resilient. They also found that the support from the Moorpark community made all the difference, helping them stay motivated during tough times. With their doors now open and the recognition of being named “Best New Business of 2024,” Che Gelato! is proof that even the most challenging journeys can lead to something sweet and meaningful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The Joy of Crafting Gelato and Sorbet from Scratch
At Che Gelato!, every scoop represents the passion and dedication that Roberto and Natalie pour into their craft. They take pride in creating gelato and sorbet entirely from scratch, using high-quality, natural ingredients without shortcuts. From selecting the freshest fruits and nuts to perfecting the balance of flavors, the process is a labor of love. Every batch is carefully prepared to ensure it meets their high standards, reflecting their commitment to authenticity and quality.
The Magic of Sharing Samples
One of the most rewarding aspects of running Che Gelato is seeing customers’ reactions when they try a sample for the first time. There’s something special about offering that first taste—whether it’s a rich pistachio gelato or a refreshing Frutti di Bosco sorbet—and watching their faces light up. These moments remind Roberto and Natalie why they embarked on this journey: to bring joy to people through flavors that evoke excitement and nostalgia.
Creating Delightful Dilemmas
At Che Gelato!, the variety of flavors often leaves customers pleasantly overwhelmed. With options ranging from vegan sorbets to decadent gelatos, each sample becomes a little experience of its own. The couple feels a sense of pride when customers find it difficult to choose just one flavor. It’s a sign that their efforts to create irresistible combinations are paying off, making every decision a delightful challenge for their guests.
An Invitation to Explore New Tastes
Offering samples also allows Roberto and Natalie to introduce customers to new and unique flavors they may not have considered. Whether it’s the creamy Nutella with chocolate and almonds or a lavender and blueberry sorbet, every taste is an invitation to explore. For the couple, these interactions are more than just transactions—they are opportunities to share stories about the ingredients and the inspiration behind each recipe.
Building a Connection Through Flavor
Beyond the flavors themselves, the joy of sampling builds a personal connection between Che Gelato! and its customers. These moments spark conversations, laughter, and shared memories, turning first-time visitors into loyal patrons. Roberto and Natalie love being part of these experiences, knowing that their gelato creates lasting impressions and contributes to moments of happiness in people’s lives.
Pride in Every Scoop
Ultimately, what makes these moments so special for Roberto and Natalie is the pride they feel in their product. Each sample represents hours of work, from sourcing ingredients to perfecting textures and flavors. Seeing customers appreciate their efforts, savor every bite, and struggle to choose a favorite reinforces why they love what they do. For them, it’s not just about making gelato—it’s about crafting experiences that people will remember long after the last spoonful.
How do you define success?
The Uncertainty of Success
Building Che Gelato from the ground up has been a challenging journey, and Roberto and Natalie know that success is not guaranteed. The road to establishing a thriving business is filled with unknowns, and they are still in the early stages of their venture. While they’ve poured their hearts into perfecting their gelato and building connections with customers, they understand that success takes time, effort, and sometimes a bit of luck.
Navigating the Early Stages
Like any new business, Che Gelato faces uncertainties—whether it’s market demand, competition, or shifting trends. The couple knows that even with passion and hard work, there are no shortcuts to sustainable success. Each day presents new challenges, and as a small business, they must constantly adapt and learn to navigate the ups and downs.
Balancing Hope and Uncertainty
Despite the uncertainties, Roberto and Natalie remain optimistic. They hope their dedication to quality and authenticity will help them carve out a place in the competitive market. However, the weight of the unknown can be daunting, as they don’t know what the future holds or how the business will evolve. Yet, they embrace this uncertainty with cautious hope, believing that persistence and passion are key to staying on the right path.
A Commitment to the Craft
At the heart of their hope is their love for gelato-making. Regardless of the challenges they face, Roberto and Natalie want to stay in the gelato business for the long haul. They know that success isn’t just measured by profits—it’s also about doing something they love and creating meaningful experiences for their customers. Their goal is to grow steadily while maintaining the quality and community focus that set them apart.
The Role of Community Support
They also understand that much of their future depends on community support. Che Gelato is still gaining visibility, and building a loyal customer base takes time. Each customer that walks through their doors brings them closer to their dream, reinforcing their belief that they’re on the right track. The positive response so far, including the award from Moorpark, gives them hope and encourages them to keep moving forward.
Looking to the Future
While they can’t predict what lies ahead, Roberto and Natalie remain committed to giving their best every day. They continue to invest their time, creativity, and energy into Che Gelato!, hoping it will grow into a lasting part of the community. Their journey is still unfolding, and though the path may not always be smooth, they believe that with persistence, they can build a future doing what they love.
Pricing:
- ONE SCOOP 7.75
- TWO SCOOPS 8.75
- TWO SCOOPS 9.75
- K-9 PUPSILE 4.50
- KIDS SIZES AVAILABLE
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.CheGelato.com
- Instagram: @chegelatousa
- Facebook: chegelatousa
- Yelp: Che Gelato
- Other: tiktok: @chegelatousa
