Dolce
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Dolce in Boston offers gelato, pastries, coffee, and more. Check menu, reviews, hours & location for this cozy Italian ice cream & coffee shop on Hanover St.
272 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113, United States
Dolce
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Overview
Dolce is an inviting ice cream shop located at 272 Hanover St in Boston, MA. Known for its casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, this spot offers a delightful mix of Italian-inspired gelato, freshly baked pastries, and expertly crafted coffee. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of sweet treats, including ricotta plus chocolate chip cookies cannoli, mixed berry and strawberry gelato, and the classic affogato, adding authentic Italian charm to Boston's vibrant North End.
The shop welcomes solo diners and families alike with a warm environment that is LGBTQ+ and transgender friendly. Dolce provides seating options inside, along with in-store shopping and takeout services. While it does not offer delivery or onsite services beyond the shop itself, it remains a favorite for those seeking quality gelato and coffee in a lively neighborhood setting.
Gallery
Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.
Local favorites
Visitors appreciate Dolce for its authentic Italian gelato, cozy atmosphere, and delicious coffee selections in Boston’s vibrant North End.
Famous for its variety of gelato flavors and classic Italian sweets like cannoli and tiramisu, Dolce offers a true taste of Italy.
Classic espresso drinks and affogato are highly praised, making it a favorite spot for coffee enthusiasts walking Boston’s Hanover Street.
The trendy, casual setting invites solo diners and small groups to relax and enjoy fresh baked goods and gelato.
This welcoming spot caters to families and offers a safe, inclusive environment for everyone in Boston’s diverse North End community.
Open from early morning until late at night daily, Dolce is perfect for morning coffee, afternoon treats, or a late dessert stop.
Known for quick, friendly service with options for in-store shopping, pickup, and takeout in a prime Boston location.
Experience
Perfect for a casual visit any time of day, Dolce offers a comforting break with classic gelato flavors and fresh coffee in Boston’s Italian district.
Experience the relaxed and authentic vibes of this Italian-style ice cream shop, where quality gelato and well-crafted espresso invite both quick stops and longer visits in a cozy, welcoming setting. — FoodPlacee editorial note
Start the day with a rich espresso or cappuccino paired with fresh pastries for a perfect Italian-style morning treat.
Enjoy sweet treats like mixed berry gelato or ricotta cannoli with kids in a cozy, casual spot that welcomes all ages.
Grab a variety of gelato flavors or pastries to-go while exploring Boston’s North End, perfect for a quick and delicious indulgence.
Relax in a trendy, calm atmosphere with a carefully prepared affogato or espresso—ideal for a peaceful solo visit.
Open late every day, Dolce offers a sweet stop with gelato and coffee when craving a casual nighttime bite in Boston.
Guest sentiment
A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.
"Dolce, on Hanover Street. Pizza, Gelato, Cannoli and other items. Cannoli here is hands down better than the other “ popular choices” in the Italian district. Abundant Gelato and Cannoli flavors. Cash only. Service is fast. Convenient location."
"Stopped here for some gelato while walking around Boston. It was great. Cash only so be prepared for that otherwise it was a yummy stop. I was impressed by the variety of flavors. We had the salted caramel and the strawberry both were good although I think we both liked the fruity flavor better."
"I had a plain cup of espresso gelati, it had a great texture. The place didn't have much seating but it was ok. The Italian districts atmosphere was so fun."
"What a great local Italian ice cream and pizza place. One of the best cappuccino’s I have had and the gelato was first rate. There is some seating available but most people seem to grab and go, but the quality is reflected in this place’s popularity. The service can be a little erratic but somehow works with that Italian flair."
"The strawberry and traditional Tiramisu was delicious. Only sucks it is cash only and it doesn’t state it anywhere in the establishment or website."
"With dozens of tiramisu choices this place definitely deserves. It’s bragging rights. They have an array of gelato and other sweet treats."
"First weekday morning coffee and it was excellent. Mrs. K. and I made this our first stop of our walk around the North End, finding a short queue for the one gent cranking out espresso-based drinks. This isn't the Green Siren people, this isn't a button pushing barista. This guy was doing it all by hand and doing it well. It may have been called Gigi Gelateria before but it is Dolce since 2019. A single espresso for me and a latte for Mrs. K. which we enjoyed from a table in the back. Excellent coffee! From there, we watched the locals socializing over their coffees and talking about Boston business. An interesting parade of locals and tourists coming and going. Yes, they have coffee to go. No, please don't do that. Proper Italians - and I can not claim Italian in my ancestry, but I know - do not take their coffee for a walk. Enjoy it here, perhaps with something baked in their oven."
"Sweet Ending to a Perfect Food Tour! We stopped at Dolce as part of The Politically Incorrect North End Food Tour with Antony, and it was the perfect way to end an unforgettable afternoon of eating and exploring Boston’s Little Italy. At Dolce, we tried the classic Italian dessert affogato — creamy gelato “drowned” in a shot of rich, hot espresso. After hours of walking, laughing, and sampling everything from Monica’s famous Italian subs to Regina’s legendary pizza and L’Osteria’s fresh ravioli, this little treat was both refreshing and indulgent. Simple, authentic, and absolutely delicious. The café itself felt warm and welcoming, with that modern Italian vibe that makes you want to linger. It was also fun to know that Antony chose Dolce as the grand finale for his tour — he clearly saved one of the best for last. If you’re missed out on the North End Food Tour, do yourself a favor and stop by Dolce. Whether you grab an affogato, a scoop of gelato, or another one of their sweet specialties, it’s the perfect pause during your day of exploring. For us, it was the cherry on top of an already incredible tour."
Visit info
Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.
| Monday | 07:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 07:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 07:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Thursday | 07:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Friday | 07:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Saturday | 07:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
| Sunday | 07:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
Plan a visit any day of the week to enjoy fresh gelato and coffee in the lively North End with flexible daytime and late-night hours.
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Questions answered
Find answers to common questions about Dolce, the cozy Italian ice cream and coffee shop in Boston’s North End.
For owners
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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.