Editor's note: As of 2020, this business is permanently closed.

We're officially in ice cream season, but don't limit your frozen treat enjoyment to the standard (and admittedly delicious) soft-serve cones. There's a whole world of cold and creamy desserts out there! And you can get a taste of some of the best global flavors here in New Hampshire, at a gelato shop that Forbes named the best in America. Once you try this Italian take on ice cream, you may never see frozen desserts the same way again.

Located smack dab in the middle of downtown Hanover, Morano Gelato is your portal to Italy right in the Upper Valley.

The founder of the shop studied gelato-making in Italy, and you can tell she's mastered the technique – every spoonful is dense, creamy, and packed with flavor.

The inside of the shop is bright and comfortable – the perfect place to sit and enjoy your treats. There's plenty of outdoor seating, too, for when the weather cooperates.

Visiting the shop does pose a challenge though – choosing which flavors to try! Luckily, you can have two or three in a cup, depending on what size you choose. Of course, we think bigger is better here!

The flavors of gelato and sorbetto on offer change every day, and feature the most delightful seasonal ingredients and tastes. Everything is made in house that very day, so you know it's incredibly fresh.

But don't worry, there are always plenty of options for chocoholics too!

The shop also offers perfectly executed espresso drinks, as well as the richest and most indulgent hot chocolate you've ever had in your life.

In the mood for something a little icier? If you've never tried a gelato frappe, you're in for a real treat!

The gelato cakes they sell are absolutely out of this world, complete with layers of gelato and layers of wine-soaked cake. Scrumptious!

There are also a number of European treats for sale, if you want to bring some extra goodies home! Of course, you can buy pints to go as well, which is a hard option to pass up.

You can visit Morano Gelato at 57 South Main Street #101, Hanover, NH 03755.

More of a traditionalist? Here are some old-school ice cream shops that just reopened for the season.