New York City, a melting pot of cultures and culinary delights, boasts an impressive array of Italian-American bakeries and pastry shops. And within this delicious landscape, the cannoli reigns supreme. This iconic Sicilian pastry, with its crispy shell and creamy ricotta filling, is a New York staple. This guide explores 21 amazing places to indulge in the perfect cannoli in the Big Apple, offering a diverse range of styles and flavors to satisfy every craving. From classic recipes to innovative twists, these spots promise a cannoli experience you won't soon forget.
The Best Cannoli in NYC: A Diverse Selection
Finding the best cannoli is subjective, of course! Taste is personal. But these 21 locations consistently receive high praise for their cannoli craftsmanship, quality ingredients, and overall experience. We've categorized them for easier navigation based on style and location.
Classic Cannoli Experiences:
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Lombardi's Pizza (Lower Manhattan): While famous for pizza, their cannoli is a hidden gem, a perfectly crisp shell filled with sweet, creamy ricotta. This is a classic New York experience, combining two iconic treats.
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Ferrara Bakery & Cafe (Little Italy): A Little Italy institution, Ferrara offers a traditional cannoli experience. Their cannoli are consistently excellent, with a delicate shell and a not-too-sweet ricotta filling. They are often cited as a must-try for visitors and locals alike.
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Caffe Palermo (East Village): This charming cafe in the East Village serves up classic cannolis alongside delicious coffee. The perfect place for a relaxing afternoon treat. Their cannoli shell has a satisfying crunch, balancing the smooth ricotta perfectly.
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Veniero's Pasticceria & Caffe (East Village): A family-run bakery with a rich history, Veniero's has been delighting New Yorkers with their pastries for generations. Their cannoli are a testament to their dedication to traditional Italian baking techniques.
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Mike's Pastry (Brooklyn): While technically in Brooklyn, Mike's warrants inclusion. Known for its long lines, Mike's proves that the wait is worth it for their large, delicious cannoli. Their secret? Fresh, high-quality ricotta.
Modern Twists on a Classic:
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Lady Mendl's (multiple locations): Known for elegant cakes, Lady Mendl's also crafts exquisite cannolis with a modern flair. Expect refined flavors and beautiful presentation.
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Eataly Downtown (Financial District): This sprawling marketplace offers several cannoli options, allowing you to sample different variations and find your favorite. The variety makes it a great place for cannoli exploration.
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Antonio's Pastries (multiple locations): Antonio's offers both traditional and unique cannoli flavors. Look for their seasonal creations – they are always inventive and delicious.
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Dolce & Gabbana (Midtown): A more luxurious option, Dolce & Gabbana’s cannoli reflects the brand’s commitment to high-end ingredients and sophisticated flavors. Expect to pay a premium for this experience.
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Sfoglini (Greenwich Village): Though known for its pasta, Sfoglini also offers a surprisingly excellent cannoli, showcasing the high-quality ingredients they pride themselves on.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites:
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Maria's Pastry Shop (Astoria): A Queens gem, Maria's offers authentic Italian pastries, including incredibly delicious and reasonably priced cannolis.
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Paulie Gee's (Greenpoint): This popular pizza spot also serves exceptional cannolis as a perfect complement to their wood-fired pizzas.
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Rubirosa (Nolita): While primarily a pizza place, Rubirosa's cannoli is a worthy side dish. The crispy shell and sweet ricotta make a perfect ending to a meal.
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Artichoke Basille's Pizza (multiple locations): Again, a pizza place with a surprise hit: their cannoli! A nice option if you're already enjoying their famous pizza.
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L&B Spumoni Gardens (Brooklyn): A Brooklyn institution, L&B Spumoni Gardens also offers excellent cannolis, reflecting the high quality of their other pastries.
Unique Cannoli Experiences:
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Brooklyn Brainery (Williamsburg): They offer occasional cannoli-making classes, where you can learn to create your own.
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Various Food Halls: Chelsea Market and other food halls often feature artisanal cannoli vendors, offering a diverse range of flavors and styles to explore.
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Pop-up Shops: Check local event listings for pop-up cannoli shops offering unique flavors and experiences.
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Restaurants with Exceptional Desserts: Many high-end Italian restaurants offer house-made cannolis as part of their dessert menu. These are often a more sophisticated, refined take on the classic.
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Little Italy Street Vendors: Don't underestimate the cannoli sold by street vendors in Little Italy. Some offer surprisingly delicious options at a budget-friendly price.
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Order Online and Delivery: Many bakeries and pastry shops offer online ordering and delivery services, allowing you to enjoy a cannoli from the comfort of your home.
Choosing Your Perfect Cannoli Adventure
The best cannoli for you will depend on your personal preferences. Do you prefer a traditional experience or are you open to innovative twists? Are you looking for a quick snack or a luxurious treat? This guide provides a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget. Don't be afraid to explore and sample different cannolis to discover your own favorite! Remember to check hours and availability before your visit, especially during peak hours or holidays. Enjoy your cannoli journey through the amazing culinary landscape of New York City!
