Hello, froyo! Try these shops for a tasty ice cream alternative

Red Mango (334 Mass Ave., Fenway). Although this froyo chain originated in Los Angeles, Red Mango has made its way to Massachusetts and is offering some of the best in froyo. Some locations are DIY, but the Boston shop is full-service, so you get to direct the staff to make up whatever it is you have in mind. With the freshest fruit and all-natural, fat-free ingredients, you can rest assured that no matter what you order, you’re making a delicious and healthy choice.

Zinga (508 Comm Ave., Kenmore Square). A recent addition to Kenmore Square, Zinga is the ultimate in do-it-yourself froyo, meaning you take charge and fill your cup just the way you like it. Their yogurt has more of a sweet taste, so it’s perfect for ice cream lovers who might be looking for something lighter. With a plentiful variety of flavors and toppings, plus a multitude of cones and brownie bowls, Zinga can bring you the best in dessert for a more-than-reasonable price. They use a "pay by the ounce" system, which means you can get the most bang for your buck and ensures that the guilt you feel as you add a few extra toppings will quickly disappear at the checkout.

Mixx (66 Brighton Ave., Allston). Another do-it-yourself establishment with great variety and price, Mixx is your go-to Allston spot for froyo. You can create your own combos with unlimited toppings and yogurt flavors, ensuring that your purchase hits the spot. Mixx mixes up their flavors (pun intended) once a week, so you can always  justify a second (third, fourth, whatever)-in-a-week visit as a chance to try something new. The shop's interior is large and comfortable, making it a great meeting spot for friends looking to relax.

BerryLine (various locations). Independently owned and operated, BerryLine is an authentic Boston establishment. With four locations in Porter Square, Harvard Square, Newbury Street, and Fenway, making a beeline for BerryLine is easy no matter where you find yourself stranded and craving froyo. Their yogurt flavors rotate through the stores, but the same fresh fruit and candy toppings remain available at all times. The stores also feature work from local artists, to make your visit a true hometown experience.

boYO (175 Cambridge St., Beacon Hill / West End). With perhaps the most charming of yogurt shop decor, boYO is a colorful and trendy spot to go for a snack -- especially on a grey afternoon. Choose from their three featured flavors and plentiful toppings, then watch as the staff artfully constructs your requested dessert. The yogurt has a more tangy, authentic yogurt taste, so it’s perfect with fruit if you feel like healthy for some reason. boYO also offers gelato, shakes, and other treats.

Which local froyo shop is your favorite?

About Alison -- I am a recent Emmanuel College graduate who loves creative writing, cheeseburgers, travel, car radio sing-a-longs, and Armenian line dancing down the hallway when no one is watching. I'm not sure what I'm up to next year or next month, but I plan on having fun for the rest of my life. Twitter: @AlisonAmorello

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