Grabbing a cool treat this summer in the Richmond Hill and Markham area leaves one with many decadent options spanning different cultures. Whether you are after a traditional scoop or something more exotic your options are plentiful.

Here are my picks for the top places to get ice cream and gelato in Markham and Richmond Hill.

Love Gelato
Located on Main St. Markham this little, unassuming shop is serving up handmade Italian Gelato. All the traditional flavours like nutella and pistachio are available. Having a big party? They will even deliver your gelato with 48 hours notice.

Ti Amo Gelato
The selection at Ti Amo is second to none. Their philosophy of using simple, fresh ingredients results in a quality gelato experience. If you're feeling particularly naughty, have yours with a waffle or a crepe, you won't be sorry.

Old Firehall confectionary
This Main St. Unionville staple is home to some delectable, handmade confections. With Kawartha lakes ice cream, soft serve, and frozen yogurt you can add in your favourite toppings, make an ice cream sandwich, or have it the old fashioned way - in a cone .

Milky Lane
The first location in Canada of this South African chain is part restaurant and part dessert cafe. Milkshakes, waffles, and crepes can be had with unique flavours like rose kulfi. For an Indian inspired dessert, top yours with their delicious rose syrup.

Novello Desserts
Novello has been servicing the Markham area with traditional Italian desserts since 1990. In addition to custom cakes and Italian pastries they have a good selection of handmade, traditional gelato.

BB Cafe
BB Cafe has a small selection of Persian ice cream that includes some of the most interesting flavours around. Tubs of rose, pistachio-saffron, and pomegranate ice cream are sure to keep you cool while tickling your taste buds.

Caffe Demetre
Local chain Caffe Demetre is pure indulgence and their ice cream options reflect that. Whether it's chocolate or a decadent baklava ice cream Caffe Demtre never disappoints. Get yours atop a crepe, waffle or in a milkshake. With the vast menu here it's hard to go wrong.

Nino D'aversa
The big name in Italian bakeries has more than just Italian sandwiches, cold cuts and breads. The dessert selection is impressive and the same can be said of their gelato. They may not have the most extensive selection of flavours, but those they do, they do well.

Ci Gusta
While self-serve fro-yo places are a dime a dozen, self-serve gelato is a bit rarer. At Ci Gusta you serve your own gelato and pay by weight. Choosing your own flavours combinations and toppings is always fun, and with a gelato base its equally delicious.

Exotique Glace
This newcomer to Main St. Unionville is specializing in exotic flavours like avocado or the Asian inspired purple dream (taro). The interesting selection of flavours is sure to have people flocking for a scoop.

Did I miss any? Add your favourite Markham and Richmond Hill ice cream and gelato spots to the comments. Photo via Love Gelato's Facebook page.