NYC Little Italy's Best Cannoli [Updated 2025]

Each bite of a perfectly crafted cannoli transports me back to sun-soaked afternoons in my Nonna's kitchen, where the sweet aroma of ricotta and chocolate filled the air. After countless tastings and a delightful journey through 12 of the top spots in Little Italy, I've uncovered the hidden gems that serve these delectable pastries with a side of tradition and love.

You might wonder why you should trust my palate. Well, I’ve spent years indulging in New York's rich culinary scene, and I know the difference between a good cannoli and one that makes you weak in the knees. So, if you're ready to treat yourself to a slice of Italian heaven, let’s dive into the best cannoli this vibrant neighborhood has to offer!

Gelso & Grand

Highlights
Beautiful classic decor
Reasonable prices
Attentive and friendly service
Fun photo booth
Creative and delicious cocktails

Gelso & Grand captures that classic Italian charm while adding a dash of modern flair. The beautiful decor invites you in, setting the stage for an indulgent culinary adventure. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by an attentive and friendly staff who made me feel like a cherished guest rather than just another customer.

Now, onto the star of the show: their cannoli. I was excited to taste this delightful treat, and Gelso & Grand did not disappoint. The pastry shell was perfectly crisp, giving way to a creamy and rich filling that danced on my taste buds. It was a balance of sweetness that felt just right—not overly sugary but still delightfully indulgent.

What I appreciated even more was the reasonable pricing—an excellent value for such a premium treat in the heart of Little Italy! After indulging in my cannoli, I couldn’t help but snap a few pictures at their quirky photo booth, adding an extra element of fun to my visit.

Overall, Gelso & Grand is a must-visit for a delightful cannoli experience that you won't soon forget!

You might also want to check out the best bagels in Brooklyn.

Da Gennaro

Highlights
Possibly Most Photographed
Charming Outdoor Ambiance
Attentive Staff Service
Homemade Gnocchi
Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Da Gennaro: A Sweet Slice of Heaven in Little Italy

As I stepped into Da Gennaro, I immediately felt the charm that has made this spot possibly the most photographed eatery in Little Italy. The delightful ambiance of outdoor seating, kissed by the soft glow of string lights, is perfect for savoring a sweet treat. While the restaurant is renowned for its homemade gnocchi, I was there to dive into their cannoli, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

The moment the cannoli arrived, the crisp shell glistened enticingly. A light dusting of powdered sugar adorned its edges, promising a sweet symphony of flavors. Upon my first bite, the ricotta filling revealed itself—smooth, creamy, and delicately sweet, with just the right hint of vanilla. The texture was splendidly balanced; the shell maintained its crunch, complementing the luxurious creaminess inside.

But what truly enhanced my experience was the attentive staff. They offered recommendations with a genuine smile, embodying that beloved family-friendly atmosphere. If you're on the hunt for the best cannoli in New York City, don’t just take my word for it—head to Da Gennaro and treat yourself; you won't regret it!

You might also want to check out the best diners in NYC.

Ferrara Bakery & Cafe

Ferrara Bakery & Cafe is a must-visit gem in Little Italy that celebrates the art of cannoli with a twist! As I bit into their crispy shell, I was greeted by the delightful freshness of the ricotta filling, perfectly sweet and speckled with chocolate chips. What sets Ferrara apart is the authentic atmosphere, where the aroma of fresh pastries envelops you, transporting you straight to the heart of Italy. Every bite was a symphony of textures and flavors! Whether you’re a cannoli aficionado or a casual dessert lover, Ferrara’s cannoli is a delightful experience that’s simply irresistible.

You might also want to check out the best desserts in NYC.

La Bella Ferrara

At La Bella Ferrara, the cannoli are a heavenly delight! The crisp shell shatters beautifully, giving way to a luscious ricotta filling that strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Each bite transports you to an Italian piazza, where flavors dance in the air. Their optional chocolate chip addition? Simply divine! The atmosphere is bustling yet cozy, making it an ideal spot to savor this classic treat. If you're in Little Italy, don’t miss the chance to indulge in what I’d call a cannoli love affair. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Brooklyn.

Caffé Palermo

At Caffé Palermo, the cannoli are nothing short of heavenly. Biting into the crisp shell, I was immediately greeted by the rich, creamy filling that danced with the delightful notes of vanilla and chocolate chips. The texture was perfectly balanced—each shell was a delectable crunch contrasting with the smooth, luscious interior. I couldn’t resist their signature flavor, which beautifully blends authenticity and whimsy. The friendly staff added a charming touch, making my visit even more enjoyable. If you're in Little Italy, don’t miss the chance to savor these delicious gems; they certainly earned their place in my heart!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in Manhattan.

Veniero's Pasticceria & Caffe

Veniero's Pasticceria & Caffe truly dazzles with its cannoli! The moment I took a bite, the crispy shell crackled delightfully, giving way to a sumptuous filling that was perfectly sweet and delicately flavored with hints of vanilla and citrus. The ricotta was incredibly fresh, making every mouthful feel indulgent yet light. Nestled in a charming atmosphere, this iconic bakery is a veritable treasure. The staff was friendly, enhancing the overall experience. If you’re in search of cannoli that encapsulates the spirit of Little Italy, Veniero's is an absolute must-try! Don’t miss out on this delightful gem!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Manhattan.

Pasticceria Rocco

Stepping into Pasticceria Rocco felt like entering a sweet haven! Their cannoli, with a perfectly crisp shell, was a delightful contrast to the rich, creamy filling inside. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, featuring a hint of vanilla and a touch of citrus that danced on the palate. I appreciated the generous dusting of powdered sugar, which added a pleasing sweetness. The ambiance, cozy and inviting, made the experience even sweeter. Overall, I left feeling like I had tasted a slice of Italian tradition. If you’re hunting for the ultimate cannoli, Rocco is a must-try!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in NYC.

Little Italy

During my delightful exploration of Little Italy in NYC, I was on a mission to uncover the best cannoli this vibrant neighborhood has to offer. The air was infused with the sweet aroma of pastries, igniting my excitement. Each shop had its own spin on the classic treat, from the wonderfully crisp shells to the rich, creamy filling that danced on my palate. With every bite, I felt a connection to Italian tradition and culture. This charming enclave is truly a cannoli lover's paradise, where every corner beckons you to indulge. Bring your appetite—your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best dumplings in NYC.

Casa D'Angelo New York

At Casa D'Angelo, the cannoli are a delightful dance of flavors and textures. As I took my first bite, the crisp shell crackled enticingly, giving way to the creamy ricotta filling that was perfectly sweetened and flecked with chocolate chips. The chianti soaked in the ambiance, making for a perfect pairing. I couldn't help but smile, feeling like I had discovered a hidden gem. The generous portion was more than satisfying, leaving me craving another. If you’re wandering through Little Italy, don’t miss this extraordinary treat—it’s a must-try for any cannoli lover!

You might also want to check out the best pasta in NYC.

Caffe Napoli

Caffe Napoli serves a delightful cannoli that dances on the palate. The crispy shell stands out — perfectly fried to a golden hue, it crackles with each bite. Inside, the ricotta filling is luscious and creamy, delightfully sweet with a hint of vanilla that makes you yearn for more. Each cannoli is generously dusted with powdered sugar, adding an extra flourish to this Italian treat. The ambiance is charming, making it the perfect spot to savor this decadent dessert. If you're in search of an authentic taste of Italy, Caffe Napoli’s cannoli is a must-try!

You might also want to check out the best dim sum in NYC.

Caffe Roma

As I stepped into Caffe Roma, the delightful aroma of fresh pastries enveloped me. Their cannoli are a must-try; the shell is crispy yet tender, with a golden hue that beckons you to take a bite. The creamy ricotta filling is perfectly sweet, dotted with mini chocolate chips that add a playful crunch. It’s the balance of flavors that truly captivates—the shell's crunch against the smoothness of the filling creates a delightful symphony in your mouth. If you’re wandering through Little Italy, don’t miss this gem—it's a classic that delivers both nostalgia and joy, making your indulgence utterly irresistible!

You might also want to check out the best hot chocolate in NYC.

Parisi Bakery & Deli

Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, Parisi Bakery & Deli is a treasure trove of delectable delights. The cannoli here are a wondrous marriage of crispy shell and lusciously creamy ricotta filling that dances on your palate. Each bite bursts with freshness, enhanced by a hint of citrus that elevates the traditional flavor. The dusting of powdered sugar adds a delightful touch, making it irresistible. What I adore most is the genuine family-run atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. For those seeking a true cannoli experience, Parisi is undoubtedly a must-visit gem in Little Italy!

You might also want to check out the best omakase in NYC.