Brain freeze cool summer treats 

Gelato + espresso = affogato 

Ice cream goes with summer like no other food, at least in our minds.  Lately, though, we’ve had a taste for a variation: ice cream with a shot of espresso.  It’s called affogato, which means “drowned” in Italian, because a scoop of gelato (Italian ice cream, or choose regular, if need be) is plopped in a small bowl and a shot of hot, steaming espresso is poured over it.   

The sweet, bitter, rich and sharp flavors combine beautifully to satisfy an afternoon sweet tooth and inject an energy jolt at the same time.   

Ask for one at Meli Caffe (301 S. Halsted Chicago, IL 60661; 312 454-0748).  It costs $3.50 for regular size, $4.50 for large. 

Or try one of the lavazza locations around town (including 162 E. Ohio St.; 312-255-8850, www.lavazza.com ) where they call it Taglio al Caffe and it costs $3.39 

Or belly up to the ice cream bar at any spot where they sell both espresso and ice cream and ask them to dish one up. 

Where’s your favorite spot for affogato? Tell us at www.trinacriacoffeesystem.com