Where can I get the best cannoli in the world?
Well, Italy, duh. But we can’t all get there as often as we need cannoli, so hopefully you’ll find below a great place near you, or somewhere you’re visiting soon, or at least a bakery that will ship to you!
What kind of cannoli expert would I be if I didn’t take the opportunity to sample them wherever I go? From your neighborhood bakery to nationwide chains and Italian superstores – I am here for you, to share my experiences visiting, ordering and, most importantly, eating the best cannoli I can find.
The Best Cannoli just might be the one that most reminds you of your nonna’s, or maybe that unforgettable week in Sicily or walking through Little Italy…we might not all agree.
So can we really rank them? Sure we can! But Taste is so personal and dependent on your background that I will do my best to focus on objective traits and my personal experience. As a Midwestern American, my expectations and palate are sure to be different from yours. But we gotta start somewhere…
I want my cannoli to have a crisp, flaky shell; fresh and bubbly and melts into the cream while I chew. The filling needs to be smooth and sweet enough to come alive with whatever toppings get mixed in, but not too sweet, and not too cheesy; light and airy. Mmmm. I’m also going to consider the vibe of the place – I’m looking for the ultimate Holy Cannoli Experience!
How we rank them
- buono – no such thing as bad cannoli
- ottimo – really good cannoli
- eccellente – you might even close your eyes to savor this one
- squisito – exquisite indeed. go out of your way for this one, it’s almost perfect.
- spettaculare – as good as it gets. If I’m not in Sicily, you got me fooled
Mike’s Pastry in Boston
A North End tradition since 1946, Mike’s is one of the best-known Italian bakeries in Boston. But is it worth the long lines… Full Review here…
Eataly in Chicago
Purveyor of all things Italian, Eataly brings the best of the Boot to big cities all over the world. We cannoli hope they’ve got our Sicilian favorite mastered…Full Review here…
Carlo’s Bakery in Las Vegas
Buddy Valastro is the Cake Boss, but we’re here to check on his cannoli. Find out if they take the cake…Full Review here…
North End Bakery in Boston
You know you can get great chowda and lobsta at Quincy Market. See how those tempting cannoli measure up…Full Review here…
The Only Cannoli in Muskegon
Traditional Italian pastries and great coffee in West Michigan. Read all about my visit …Full Review here…