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Guide to Chicago

Authentic cannoli spots

Made for those who hold a strict standard for the crisp, traditional shell and filling of a classic cannoli.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chef Ciccio, Beef-Balls-Beer image 1
Chef Ciccio, Beef-Balls-Beer image 2
Chef Ciccio, Beef-Balls-Beer image 3
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Italian-style restaurant offers authentic Italian vibes with busy, lively atmosphere and entertaining chefs. Located in a quieter corner, it provides a family-like dining experience with views of Lake Michigan nearby.

Authentic Italian food features beef sandwiches and subs with a genuine taste. An Italian chef works in the kitchen ensuring the food stays true to its roots and is Halal.

Cannolis here have a fantastic finish with a rich, creamy filling. The chef often offers an extra cannoli as a kind gesture.

People are saying

"The Italian Beef sandwich here is absolutely delicious."

"The meatball sandwich here is outstanding and authentic."

"I found the cannoli to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is open on Christmas Day for those looking to dine.

3

Expect a quick service with orders completed in 5-7 minutes.

02
J.P. Graziano Grocery image 1
Italian grocery store

Italian grocery store with old school Chicago deli vibe and family-run charm creates a warm, bustling atmosphere. Simple, no-frills interior complements the hectic but friendly energy during busy times. Small outdoor seating offers a casual spot to enjoy hearty, flavorful sandwiches.

Italian sandwiches here are authentic and no-frills, capturing the true taste of a local Chicago deli. The subs offer a satisfying and genuine flavor that draws people from far away.

Creamy filling with a cherry on the ends makes the cannoli stand out. It tastes not too sweet and balances well with the shell, offering a perfectly sweet treat.

People are saying

"I found their sandwiches to be outstanding."

"I found the Italian subs here to be super authentic and delicious."

"The cannoli here is perfection, not overly sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The deli is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Sandwiches are prepared quickly, usually within 10 minutes of ordering.

03
Sicilian Bakery Inc image 1

Old-school Italian bakery offers a cozy atmosphere with a traditional vibe and authentic Sicilian pastries. Family-run with recipes from the old country, it draws people seeking genuine Italian breads and cannoli.

Fresh, delicious breads, focaccia, and pastries reflect authentic Sicilian baking. The owner greets customers at the door, adding to the genuine Italian bakery feel.

Crusty cannoli balls stand out as a distinctive feature, often praised for their texture. The cannoli consistently draw positive attention, with many noting their mouth-watering pastry and authentic Italian flavor.

People are saying

"Their Italian cookies are so tasty, you'll understand what great cookies should taste like."

"These cannoli are delicious and taste like the ones in Sicily."

"I found the bakery to be authentic Sicilian."

Good to know

1

The bakery accepts only cash payments, so plan accordingly.

2

Special orders for cakes require at least 48 hours notice.

3

They charge an extra 4% fee for credit or debit card payments.

04
New Paradise Bakery image 1

Old school Italian bakery with a 21st century vibe offers authentic Italian goods and top quality ingredients. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a clean, modern layout and beautifully decorated exterior. Known for outstanding gelato and pastries, it attracts those seeking genuine flavors.

Freshness stands out with authentic Italian goods that capture traditional flavors. The bakery offers a delightful little spot feel for genuine Italian treats.

Shells fill at order to keep them crispy with a crunchy crust and luxuriously creamy filling. Pistachio cream stands out, made with ingredients imported from Italy using traditional methods.

People are saying

"Their custom cakes are works of art, truly stunning."

"I found the cannoli to be phenomenal and the best I've ever had."

"The authentic cannoli shells are filled fresh to order, keeping them crispy."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a variety of authentic Italian baked goods and gelato.

2

Parking is easy and convenient near the bakery.

3

All baked goods are made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients.

05
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant with small, crowded space and loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant seating option. Known for authentic Italian pizza and pasta with a lively, energetic vibe.

Authentic family-style Italian food comes straight from Sardinia here. The dishes are fresh, delicious, and capture true Italian flavors.

Rich and sweet, these cannolis come made to order with crispy shells. They stand out as a favorite dessert and a highlight of the meal.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"The authentic Italian food bursts with flavor and feels like a family kitchen."

"The cannoli here are rich, sweet, and absolutely incredible."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours.

06
Limoni Belli Neapolitan Style Pizzeria โ€“ Food Truck image 1

Food truck with wood fire ovens offers Neapolitan style pizza known for its light crust and fresh ingredients. Setup includes a beautiful pizza bar that creates a welcoming atmosphere. The experience is smooth and well organized, attracting those seeking quality pizza outdoors.

One bite reveals authentic Napoli-style flavors in pizzas and sandwiches. The sauce and preparation reflect true Neapolitan tradition.

Spectacular cannoli come from a food truck known for Neapolitan style pizza. The cannoli stand out as a sweet treat alongside the savory options.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be amazing and delicious."

"The food trucks here serve delicious Neapolitan pizza with fresh ingredients."

"I thought the cannoli were spectacular."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located outside Begyle Brewery.

2

Prices for pizza and cannoli are reasonable.

3

The food truck offers a variety of pizza options.

07
Pasta Via image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen reveals fresh pasta made daily, with staff rolling dough and finishing plates in view. Warm, inviting atmosphere combines simmering sauce aromas with upbeat music and art murals that add character. Ordering happens via kiosks, and tables come with oil and Parmesan cheese, creating a casual yet sophisticated vibe.

Food features fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. Pasta comes with rich sauces and perfect textures, showing clear care in preparation.

Freshly made cannolis arrive quickly, within four minutes of sitting down. The delicious cannoli comes with a generous presentation, sometimes even offered for free by the owner.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is made from scratch and tastes incredibly fresh."

"The pasta here is fresh, homemade, and tastes truly authentic."

"I recommend the cannoli; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

All their pasta is made fresh daily.

2

They do not use any seed oils in their pasta.

3

Pasta Via offers great pasta at a wildly affordable price.

08
Conte Di Savoia image 1

Italian deli with classic checkerboard floors and a tin pan ceiling creates an old school cool vibe. Atmosphere feels like a step back in time to a neighborhood shop with rich, authentic character. Sandwiches stand out as some of the best, complementing the genuine, nostalgic setting.

Offers authentic Italian sandwiches, classic espresso, and a wide range of genuine Italian products. The deli maintains a traditional Italian vibe throughout.

Made fresh on the spot, the cannolis have a rich filling and a crispy shell. They stand out among other baked goods like focaccia and cookies for their authentic taste.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be amazing and really good."

"It's an old school Italian deli with a classic vibe."

"Their authentic Italian sandwiches are super delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices are very reasonable compared to other sandwich shops in the area.

2

The deli has about four tables available for dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak lunch hours.

09
Trattoria Gianni image 1
Italian restaurant

Long, narrow space with open brick walls and a cozy, old-school Italian vibe creates an intimate atmosphere. Back patio garden offers a quiet, lovely setting for dining, while round tables accommodate larger groups. Staff includes Italian owners and waiters, enhancing the authentic feel.

Italian food offers a very authentic taste with delicious flavors. The dining atmosphere feels genuinely Italian and true to tradition.

Cannoli features a beet touch that adds a unique flavor. It ranks just behind tiramisu in dessert popularity here.

People are saying

"I loved the cozy, old-school Italian vibe here."

"The food here is delicious and feels truly authentic."

"The cannoli had a beet touch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 20-30 minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

Valet parking is available for $10, with street parking options nearby.

10
D'Amato's Bakery image 1

Small bakery with old-school charm and narrow aisles creates a cozy but sometimes crowded atmosphere. Friendly staff and great tunes add to the inviting vibe, while a covered outdoor patio offers extra seating for a quick bite.

Fresh-baked Italian pastries and crusty bread stand out here. The menu includes authentic American Italian food like paninis, pizza, and salads served for takeout or outdoor dining.

Crispy shells hold rich, creamy filling in these cannolis. Chocolate variety stands out as a recommended choice. Mini-cannolis come in trays suitable for gatherings.

People are saying

"This bread is the best sandwich bread I've ever had."

"It's the perfect spot for authentic Italian pastries and fresh-baked bread."

"I was warned about allergens in the cannolis because they contain peanuts."

Good to know

1

D'Amato's Bakery only accepts cash payments.

2

The bakery has limited seating inside but offers outdoor seating with tables.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours due to a small kitchen.

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