HUNTLEY – Despite the cold weather, Manny's Handcrafted Gelato and Cafe saw more than 100 customers on its opening day Monday, owner Manny Stier said.

“A large portion of the community came out and supported us,” Stier said. “... It was just nice getting to know everybody.”

The cafe, 11808 Main St., serves gelato made in the store with fresh ingredients and features other items including a coffee bar, homemade panini sandwiches and milkshakes.

Stier learned how to make gelato at North Carolina-based Carpigiani, a company that specializes in producing ice cream machines. Gelato has less air than ice cream, which gives it a smoother and more intense taste, he said.

The shop has 22 flavors including chocolate-covered cheesecake, chocolate biscotti and Stier’s favorite – Belgian waffle, he said.

Stier, of Crystal Lake, works at the store with his stepbrother, Adam Scalise, and mother, Rosie Scalise, who previously ran La Cucina Caffè in Cary.

Much of the store’s influence comes from the family’s Italian ancestry, according to its website, and the focus of the business is just as much on the coffee and espresso as it is the gelato.

While the shop had originally planned for a November opening, seeing it filled with customers Monday evening was an “incredible” feeling, Stier said.

“It’s been long time in the process, and to see it open and to finally be able to serve our stuff, it’s awesome,” Stier said.

Manny’s Handcrafted Gelato and Cafe is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, Stier said. He said the store likely will hold a grand opening when the weather is warmer.

For information, visit the store's website at mannysgelatoandcafe.com or its Facebook page.