Sant Ambroeus opened in 1936, immediately filling a void for Manhattan’s well-heeled gelato connoisseurs. This esteemed location offers the most authentic version of the Italian ice cream this side of the Atlantic, as well as homemade cookies, expertly brewed cappuccini, and a full lunch and dinner menu. The West Village outpost at 259 W 4th St. is like the it-girl granddaughter of a high society doyenne, maintaining the chicness of an esteemed family name with youthful charm and a dose of edge.