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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Ice cream and cannoli in Little Italy

You have no interest in choosing between a scoop of ice cream and a fresh cannoli.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 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.

Gelato here is super creamy and made in-house with just the right sweetness. Flavors like Nutella, Pistachio, and Baci chocolate stand out for their rich taste and authenticity.

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."

"The gelato here is amazing, truly some of the best I've ever had."

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
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.

Creamy gelato stands out with intense flavors like pistachio and cherry vanilla. The Gelato trio offers a refreshing variety that rivals top ice cream parlors in Italy and Germany.

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 pistachio gelato had a wonderful aroma and aftertaste."

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.

03
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.

Italian-style gelato stands out with its rich, creamy texture. Many spots offer good quality ice cream that pairs well with local treats like rainbow cookies.

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 really enjoyed the cannolis here."

"I enjoyed the good Italian ice cream."

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.

04
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.

Pistachio gelato stands out with real pistachio pieces and a very green chocolate flavor. They offer gelato options that feel special, like a birthday treat.

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."

"I found the cannoli to be delicious."

"The Pistachio gelato here is amazing."

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.

05
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.

Ice creams here are rich and flavorful with standout options like mango and canoli flavors. Pairing the chocolate brownie with ice cream is a popular choice.

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."

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

"I loved the pistachio ice cream for dessert."

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.

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.

Rich and creamy chocolate gelato stands out alongside the spumoni Bomba, which combines chocolates, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream with a chocolate shell. The cannoli and lemon sorbet also offer fantastic flavors.

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."

"I highly recommend the gelato; it's excellent with flavors of Italy."

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
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.

Gelato here lacks the creaminess typical of traditional styles and tastes different than expected. Pastries and other sweets like cakes and Italian cookies are also available alongside the gelato.

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 ice cream here is 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.

08
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.

Gelato here offers a great taste with flavors like mint chip standing out. It pairs well with espresso and Italian desserts, creating a classic Italian dessert experience.

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."

"I had some of the best gelato I've ever tasted here."

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.

09
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, 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!"

"I enjoyed a cappuccino with strong espresso and creamy foam."

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.

10
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.

Pistachio truffle features a creamy center with gelato rolled in nuts. Gelato flavors like black cherry and strawberry with chunks offer good size and balanced sweetness.

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 pistachio ice cream here is a super tasty ball of pistachio creme."

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.

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Little Italy, New York

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