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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Little Italy

Cannoli and desserts

A crisp cannoli is the only thing that can satisfy that specific craving for something sweet.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
La Bella Ferrara image 1
La Bella Ferrara image 2
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Small bakery with industrial decor and no indoor seating offers a grab-and-go setup featuring Italian pastries and gelato. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and charming, with a long line and friendly, helpful people. Outdoor seating provides a cute spot to enjoy fresh pastries and coffee.

Desserts here are consistently delicious and often described as fantastic. The place earns strong recommendations for its sweet offerings.

Rich, creamy filling and crispy shells define the cannoli here. Pistachio and chocolate options stand out, with flavors that many find exceptionally satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the cannoli here to be incredibly delicious and fresh."

"These pastries are the best and freshest I've ever eaten."

"I thought the desserts here were delicious and wonderful."

Good to know

1

It is recommended to go to La Bella Ferrara early to avoid long lines.

2

Everything is reasonably priced with each item being about $6 on average.

3

There is not a lot of seating available, so don't go with large groups unless you're willing to stand outside.

02
Gino's Pastry Shop & Cafe image 1

Shop feels like a 1960s Italian-American bakery frozen in time, with walls showing photos of famous visitors. Warm, nostalgic atmosphere invites conversation and storytelling, enhanced by the aroma of fresh pastries and espresso. Prices stay low, making it a beloved neighborhood institution with authentic Italian charm.

Decadent desserts come at a great price here. Options are limited and lighting in the display case makes them hard to see clearly.

Cannolis come with crispy, flaky shells filled fresh to order with creamy ricotta. They taste authentic and full of flavor, rivaling the best anywhere.

People are saying

"I thought the espressos here were the best I ever had."

"The sfogliatelle pastry is perfectly flaky and light."

"The cannoli here are light, flavorful, and the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Most items at the bakery are under $2, but there is a $10 minimum for card payment.

2

A large cannoli will cost $5.

3

You can order cannolis to go at Gino’s.

03
Artuso Pastry Shop image 1

Spacious bakery with old-school charm and a family atmosphere offers a wide selection of colorful, fresh pastries and cakes. The place feels cozy and clean, inviting guests to enjoy the simple, delicious surroundings while exploring traditional treats.

Italian pastries shine with fresh cannoli and rainbow cookies. Mini desserts offer a tasty variety, all consistently delicious.

Cannolis come in mini and full sizes with a rich, creamy filling. A cannoli kit is available for purchase, and sometimes free mini cannolis are handed out to customers waiting in line.

People are saying

"I found the cakes here to be so fresh and delicious."

"I found this bakery to be the best."

"I found the traditional Italian desserts here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

You need to get a ticket as you enter.

2

The numbered ticket system should always be used.

3

Some items sell out towards the end of the day.

04
Ferrara Bakery & Cafe image 1

Elegant bakery with classic Italian style and richly decorated interiors offers both indoor and sheltered outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels traditional and cozy, filled with the aroma of freshly baked pastries and lively energy. Known for exceptional cannoli and gelato, it blends old-school charm with a vibrant street presence.

Authentic Italian desserts shine here with cannoli cake, Belgian chocolate mousse cake, and nougat standing out. Options include sit-down or to-go, all delivering rich, delicious flavors.

Authentic Italian style shines in the cannoli here, with a rich, creamy filling and crisp shell. The cannoli cake also stands out as a unique, flavorful twist on the classic dessert.

People are saying

"I thought the New York cheesecake here was the best I ever tasted."

"I thought the cannoli here were the best I've ever had."

"The Italian desserts here are amazing, especially the tiramisu."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during busy hours.

2

Expect long lines, especially during holidays and special events.

3

National Cannoli Day offers a free plain Cannoli with any purchase.

05
L’Amore Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a welcoming atmosphere that transports diners to Italy. The space is small and cozy, creating an intimate dining experience. Guests enjoy exceptional pasta dishes and a variety of notable wines and cocktails.

Free dessert is offered here, adding a nice touch. Desserts are consistently very delicious and pair well with the pasta.

Cannoli here stands out for its rich flavor and great texture. It pairs well with espresso or cappuccino and often earns praise as one of the best desserts available.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing, especially the pasta and pizza."

"The desserts here were excellent, truly delicious."

"I had the best cannoli I’ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Drinks at L’Amore are on happy hour prices for beers, wine, and cocktails.

2

An automatic 18% gratuity is added to the bill.

3

There is an added 3% convenience fee.

06
Caffé Palermo image 1

Crowded space with elbow-to-elbow seating and grey marble tables creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. Walls adorned with mirrors and a large cannoli sculpture add character and a whimsical touch. Live entertainment and street music contribute to a vibrant, classic Italo-American café vibe.

Offers a huge selection of homemade desserts with pages of options. Pistachio cannoli and cheesecake stand out as popular choices. Desserts pair well with coffee for a classic Italian cafe experience.

Cannoli stand out for their rich, creamy filling and crisp shells. This spot is known as a king of Cannoli with a cozy vibe and a solid selection.

People are saying

"These cannolis are delicious and truly unforgettable."

"Their pistachio cake was divine and melted in my mouth."

"The cannolis here are legendary and perfectly sweet."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $20 for two cokes and one scoop of ice cream.

2

The restaurant only serves desserts and does not have any food available for lunch.

3

It is not possible to pay with contactless payment methods.

07
Zia Maria Little Italy image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers homey atmosphere with live accordion music and table-side fresh pasta preparation. Outdoor seating provides a view of the illuminated Empire State Building with heaters for comfort. Staff engage guests with personalized entertainment and complimentary drinks.

Desserts here come as a pleasant surprise and match the quality of the excellent pasta. The entire meal, from appetizers to dessert, stays absolutely fantastic.

Fresh, crispy cannolis come with rich, creamy filling. The texture and flavor make them stand out.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh and prepared right in front of you."

"The tiramisu dessert is creamy and flavorful."

"You have to try the cannoli; it's amazing and epic."

Good to know

1

Birthday celebrations include a fun serenade by the wait staff.

2

The restaurant dims the lights around 4:40 PM for dinner ambiance.

3

An automatic 18% service charge is included for parties of two.

08
Delillo Pastry Shop image 1

Spacious interior with indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere reminiscent of a classic Italian café. The environment feels intimate but refined, welcoming a diverse crowd including families with strollers. Aromas of fresh pastries and espresso fill the air, enhancing the traditional vibe.

Desserts come in a mind-boggling array of options with many mini sizes to keep calories in check. Hosts create a welcoming vibe, making it feel like dessert at a friend's home, and many grab-and-go choices are available.

Mini cannoli come with a sticky filling that stands out from typical pastries. They pair well with hot chocolate and sit alongside other sweets like rainbow cookies and cakes.

People are saying

"The birthday cake was excellent and delicious."

"The desserts here are works of art and extremely delicious."

"The cannoli filling was unusually sticky and lacked flavor."

Good to know

1

A slice of cake costs $7-8, while a birthday cake for 8 is $40-45.

2

There is a $10 minimum for credit/debit card payments.

3

The shop only allows orders to go after 7:30 PM.

09
Egidio Pastry Shop image 1

Pastry shop with an old-fashioned atmosphere and retro 1940s look offers an intimate setting with window seat tables for enjoying treats. The vibe blends nostalgic charm with a bit of lively, chaotic energy. Longtime and new visitors appreciate its timeless quality and consistent experience.

Desserts show a masterclass in texture and flavor with clear attention to traditional Italian pastry-making. Cookies and coffee desserts stand out, often served chilled for a refreshing touch.

Shells have a perfect crunch and ricotta filling blends sweet cream with green coconut flakes. Cannoli come in a trio or straight, with options like white chocolate dip adding variety.

People are saying

"The pastries here are delicious, with crispy, flaky shells and creamy fillings."

"The pastries here have a crispy, flaky shell with a creamy, sweet filling."

"The cannoli shell was perfectly fried with a satisfying crunch."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers custom birthday and wedding cakes.

2

Street parking is available nearby for easy access.

3

There are tables to sit and enjoy coffee and pastries.

10
Casa D'angelo New York image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers authentic homey atmosphere with live opera singing and pasta made in view. Space feels tight but beautifully lit, featuring outdoor dining with a local band enhancing the vibe.

Tiramisu stands out as a top dessert, alongside the rich chocolate volcano and the unique Camilo. Complimentary desserts and shots often come with special occasions like birthdays.

Decadent crust and fluffy cream define the cannoli here. The selection complements meals well and stands out as very good.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is top-notch and perfectly cooked."

"The desserts here were pretty solid and delicious."

"The cannoli here is so good, I thought it was to die for."

Good to know

1

A special menu is offered for Thanksgiving dinner.

2

Happy San Gennaro is celebrated with vibrant festivities.

3

A mandatory 18% gratuity is added to all bills.

11
Morrone Pastry Shop & Cafè image 1

Small pastry shop offers comfortable casual seating and great lighting with a calm, peaceful atmosphere where many people know each other. The air fills with the smell of fresh Italian pastries, creating a warm, welcoming vibe. It serves as a community staple with a wide variety of baked goods and a focus on freshness.

Fresh and delicious desserts come in a variety of options to enjoy on the spot or take home. The shop offers a great spot to share sweet treats with others.

Fresh, crispy shells with good flavor define the cannoli here. The filling is delicious, making these memorable pastries alongside other baked goods like biscotti and cartocci.

People are saying

"I was obsessed with their delicious cannolis."

"This place is so kid friendly, the cake was a hit with everyone!"

"The cheesecakes here are creamy, delicious, and some of the best in the city."

Good to know

1

They don't take credit cards, so cash only is accepted.

2

The seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

3

I recommend going early to avoid the lines.

12
Little Italy image 1

Cobblestone streets and picturesque facades create an authentic Italian town feel with a vibrant atmosphere full of lively energy. Outdoor seating offers a cozy and romantic vibe while Italian music and themed food enhance the experience. The area hosts many Italian cultural attractions and features a variety of restaurants serving classic dishes like pizza, pasta, and cannoli.

Many spots offer Italian desserts, including gelato and pastries. Some desserts look less appealing, but variety is wide.

Cannolis come in huge sizes and often use dried fruit instead of chocolate chips. They appear alongside other Italian treats like tiramisu and biscotti, offering a delicious sweet option.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and top-notch."

"I loved the cheesecake and cannolis here."

"I really enjoyed the cannolis here."

Good to know

1

The Feast of San Gennaro lasts 11 days from September 14-24.

2

Expect large crowds during the San Gennaro Festival, especially on weekends.

3

Most restaurants close their kitchens by 10 PM, so plan dinner early.

13
Sofia's of Little Italy image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, beautiful atmosphere with an inviting outdoor terrace and views of the Empire State Building. Live jazz music fills the space, creating an energetic vibe that can be loud at times. Known for exceptional cocktails and desserts, it features standout espresso martinis and tiramisu.

Tiramisu comes with a shot of lemoncello and sometimes dessert is offered on the house. Portions are generous enough that dessert feels like a nice finish rather than a must-have.

Dessert includes cannoli with a good balance of filling and shell. Cannoli pairs well with tiramisu for a classic Italian sweet finish.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is exceptional and delicious."

"The desserts here are amazing, especially the gelato."

"I found the cannoli to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers buy one get one cocktails, making it a great deal.

2

During happy hour, customers may need to ask multiple times for drinks.

3

An automatic 22% tip is included in the bill.

14
Da Gennaro image 1
Italian restaurant

Outdoor seating triples indoor space and offers live Italian music and heaters for warmth. Tables sit close together, creating a crowded but lively atmosphere with views of the street under an iconic sign. The vibe blends authentic Little Italy charm with a busy, fun energy.

Homemade Tiramisu stands out as a dessert choice. It pairs well with a Latte or a glass of Pinot noir.

Cannolis come as a complimentary dessert or part of a full meal with espresso martinis and pistachio ice cream. They pair well with cappuccinos and offer a sweet finish to the night.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and served super fast."

"The New York cheesecake and cannoli were excellent desserts."

"You have to try the cannoli; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour priced drinks are available before 7pm for outdoor seating only.

2

A mandatory tip of at least 18% is added to the bill.

3

The cost for two pizzas and a salad is over $160.

15
La Bella Vita image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy Italian restaurant with heated outdoor seating and live band music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Space feels cramped but service remains incredible. Classic Italian vibe blends with beautiful exterior and original decor.

Desserts include a tiny slice of tiramisu served with three spoons as a free treat. They offer delicious sweets that pair well with the wine.

Cannolis here stand out for their rich filling and crisp shell. Pairing them with a cappuccino makes for a solid finish to a meal.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and absolutely delicious."

"The tiramisu dessert was yummy and delicious."

"I found the cannolis here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are accepted, but walk-ups are seated first.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to the bill for two or more people.

16
Paesano of Mulberry Street image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with rustic wooden beams and strung lights creates a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Seating is tight, fostering a lively but intimate vibe. Outdoor dining with weather protection adds flexibility to the experience.

Limited dessert options include a tiramisu tart and cannoli. Desserts add to the overall cost, sometimes pushing the bill close to 100 dollars.

Baked cannoli stands out with plentiful gooey cheese and a flavor that holds up well against the marina. The cannoli is consistently described as divine and incredible with a tasty, balanced stuffing.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is so creamy and yummy, especially the rigatoni vodka."

"You have to try the cannoli; they were divine."

"You have to try the tiramisu; it's outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended at this restaurant.

2

An 18% tip is automatically added to your bill.

3

The restaurant closes by 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

17
Enzo's of Arthur Avenue image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant designed like a Tuscan villa with cozy, family atmosphere and spacious terrace resembling a Florentine piazza. The vibe is welcoming and intimate, with lively indoor dining and comfortable outdoor seating. It fills up quickly, attracting those seeking authentic Italian ambiance.

Excellent desserts are available here, though tiramisu is better found at a nearby dessert specialist.

Cannoli here stand out for their rich filling and crisp shell. They offer a classic Italian dessert experience worth trying.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the pasta."

"The desserts here are just okay."

"I've never tasted cannoli this good."

Good to know

1

Lunch offers paninis & 12 choices but only M-F 11:30am-3pm.

2

Reservations are required as the restaurant gets busy.

3

Parking is easy with a municipal lot located right behind, costing $2.00 per hour.

18
Cannoli King image 1
Dessert shop

Dessert shop offers live entertainment with singing and a vibrant Italian charm. Seating includes outdoor options and inside space feels a bit cramped. Atmosphere blends authentic NYC Italian bakery vibes with a lively, tourist-friendly energy.

Offers a great variety of desserts with a focus on classic Italian flavors. The desserts stand out for their amazing taste and experience compared to similar spots.

Huge, delicious cannoli stand out as the highlight here. Options include a perfect pistachio cannoli and a gluten-free version, all served fresh with espresso or cappuccino.

People are saying

"You have to try the cannoli; they're fresh and delicious."

"I loved the cappuccino and lobster tail pastry."

"The desserts here taste so fresh and authentic, full of love."

Good to know

1

Karaoke sessions are available, adding a fun element to your visit.

2

The price for five cannolis and two cappuccinos is over $50.

3

The restaurant requires customers to fold strollers and hold their babies.

19
Caffe Napoli image 1
Italian restaurant

Restaurant offers old world charm with rustic decor that evokes Italy. Outdoor seating provides a people-watching patio complemented by live Italian music near the entrance. Multiple seating options include a basement area that can transform into a lively party space.

Huge selection of Italian desserts pairs well with great espresso. Desserts consistently impress from start to finish.

Pistachio cannoli stands out as a favorite dessert, known for its decadent and perfect quality. Many consider these cannolis the best they have ever had.

People are saying

"This Italian food is the best I've ever had, truly exceptional."

"The cannoli here are amazing, especially the pistachio."

"I thought the cannoli here were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers glasses of wine for $9, but prices rise after 8 PM.

2

The Feast of San Gennaro lasts for 11 days, providing a festive atmosphere.

3

You must order $25 or more for takeout from the restaurant.

20
Caffe Roma image 1
Coffee shop

Old-school coffee shop with vintage decor and large seating area offers a cozy, quiet atmosphere with bright window-side seating. Patrons enjoy traditional Italian coffee and classic baked goods in a space that feels connected to the past.

Offers wonderful pastries, Italian desserts, and gelato with generous portions. Desserts like strawberry cheesecake pair well with espresso or coffee.

Authentic Sicilian cannolis come filled with rich ricotta and sometimes coated in dark chocolate. They offer a perfect quick treat with a balance of creamy filling and crisp shell.

People are saying

"I found the cappuccino here to be smooth and foamy."

"I've had cannoli on three continents, and this was just perfect."

"The desserts here are charming and feel like a little piece of old-world Italy."

Good to know

1

A small cannoli at Cafe Roma costs $6.

2

The coffee shop opens just after noon.

3

Each item is made in-house.

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Little Italy, New York

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