So it has finally reached gotten over 70 degrees in Chicago. And what does the hot weather call for? A cool, sweet treat!

Despite the unassumingly small storefront, Mario’s Italian Ice is a sure win for a pleasing summer dessert. Located on quaint Taylor Street (1068 W. Taylor) in Chicago’s Little Italy, this place is ONLY open during the summer months. And they aren’t messing around with syrups or sno-cone mixes. Oh no, when you order a lemon Italian ice here, expect to see chunks, even wedges of lemons in your dessert. Seasonal and monthly specialty flavors go quickly. And for good reason! Not only are they authentic, they are cheap! Treats here start at just a buck! Should you be hungry for more than a refreshing Italian ice, be sure to try the lupini beans! Just pop the shell off these salty beans, and eat! They are a delicious item to snack on as you stroll the rest of Taylor Street.

Have a side of history with your sundae at Margie’s Candies. At 1960 N. Western Avenue, this cozy location has been serving up sweet treats since 1921, and has a loyal following of ice cream lovers. Your sundae can come just about any way you want it, and from strawberries to mint, all the ingredients are the real deal (nothing out of a can or bottle here). And they come served up old school as well, in glass boats with silver spoons that make you just want to share with your ‘steady’. Grab some hand-dipped chocolates for your mom while you are there, and score some bonus points. One caveat: You may have to wait to be served… up to 30 minutes or so. Don’t worry, it is well worth the wait. It will only make your sweet treat even sweeter!

Anthony’s Italian Ice at 3442 N. Southport has managed to not only make itself a staple in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, but it also represents other local businesses as well. From Goose Island root beer floats to Bobtail Ice Cream, the shop helps sell Chicago. And they don’t stop there. You can start your visit off with a Vienna beef Chicago hotdog before heading back to the counter for something sweet. Low-key and casual, this place is just what you want in a neighborhood dessert spot. And their Italian ice flavor selection is the cherry on top… from standards like watermelon to fun flavors like strawberry lemonade or even chocolate heath, the only problem you’ll have is choosing just one!

With flavors like the Elvis (Vanilla Custard, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, and Banana) and Caramel Fudge Nut Brownie Chip the "CFNBC” for short (Vanilla Custard, Scooter's Fabulous Fudge Nut Brownie, Caramel Fudge & Chocolate Chips), Scooter’s “Concrete” concoctions are why custard lovers will eat nothing else. This stuff is rich, gooey, creamy, and better yet, made to order. You can choose from their fun suggestions, or make your own. And if custard is just too rich for your tastes, they have shakes, malts, and even Italian ice that is sure to please. Stop by 1658 W. Belmont and visit them, open 7 days a week during the summer! You won’t be disappointed!!