Hoover resident Sarah Tharani is giving Birmingham area chocolate lovers a reason to celebrate as she recently opened her doors at Peterbrooke Chocolatier in Cahaba Heights.

Peterbrooke states that its mission is to take the art of European chocolate making and turn it into an American experience by combining quality ingredients with “old-world techniques.”

Tharani says she fell in love with the Peterbrooke brand after visiting its Tuscaloosa location while attending the University of Alabama.

“I loved their chocolate and I would drive my family there from Birmingham as often as I could. We all fell in love with it, and together, decided to open one up in Birmingham,” Tharani said. “It’s a family effort with my parents, brother and husband.”

Treats offered at the chocolate shop include truffles, handmade caramels and cherry cordials along with its hand-dipped chocolate-covered cookies, chips, pretzels, popcorn and strawberries. However, Peterbrooke goes beyond chocolate treats with its line of gelato flavors.

“We have authentic Italian gelato and what makes it special is all of the flavors actually taste like their name,” Tharani said. “Gelato is different from ice cream in that it has a higher proportion of milk and less cream and little to no eggs. It is much denser than ice cream.”

Tharani also noted that the Cahaba Heights community has welcomed her new business with open arms.

“I have loved meeting the community we are in. Everyone is so welcoming and just so nice. We really feel at home here, and we are so glad we chose Cahaba Heights,” she said.