Discover the Delicious Delights: 10 Best Cannoli in San Francisco You Simply Must Try!

Indulge in the best cannoli in San Francisco with creamy filling and crispy shell. Enjoy a taste of Italy with every bite at these top-rated bakeries.

San Francisco is a city that's bursting with culinary delights and sweet treats to indulge in. Among the plethora of desserts available, cannoli lovers are in for a real treat as the city has some of the best cannoli options around. From traditional Sicilian-style cannolis to inventive modern twists, San Francisco has it all. In this article, we'll be exploring the top cannoli spots in the city that are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

First up on our list is Stella Pastry & Café, located in the heart of North Beach. This family-owned bakery has been serving up authentic Italian pastries since 1942, making them one of the oldest Italian bakeries in San Francisco. Their cannolis are a must-try, with a crispy shell and creamy ricotta filling that's perfectly sweetened.

If you're looking for something a little more modern, head over to Golden Boy Pizza where they're serving up cannoli chips. These crunchy cannoli shells are topped with sweet ricotta cream and chocolate chips, making for a perfect snack or dessert.

For those who want to try a little bit of everything, Mara's Italian Pastries is the place to go. Located in the Mission District, this bakery offers a wide variety of cannoli flavors, including classic vanilla, chocolate, and even a pumpkin spice option during the fall season.

If you're looking for a cannoli spot with a view, look no further than La Rocca's Corner. This bakery is situated in the picturesque Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood, offering stunning views of the bay alongside their delicious cannolis. Their shells are made fresh daily and filled with a rich, sweetened ricotta cream that's hard to resist.

If you're looking for a vegan cannoli option, look no further than Timeless Coffee. This Oakland-based bakery offers a vegan cannoli that's just as delicious as its traditional counterpart. The shell is made with coconut oil and filled with a cashew-based ricotta cream that's perfectly sweetened.

For those who want to try something truly unique, head over to Cannoli Guys. They offer traditional Sicilian-style cannolis, but with a twist - they're filled with gelato! These frozen treats are available in a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to decadent chocolate hazelnut.

No cannoli list would be complete without mentioning Victoria Pastry Co. This San Francisco institution has been serving up sweet treats since 1914, and their cannolis are no exception. Their shells are light and crispy, filled with a sweetened ricotta cream that's perfectly balanced.

If you're looking for a cannoli option that's perfect for sharing, head over to Piazza Market. Their cannoli platters are perfect for parties or family gatherings, offering a variety of flavors that are sure to please everyone's taste buds.

For those who want to try a twist on the classic, head over to Eataly's cannoli bar. They offer a variety of cannoli flavors, including lemon and pistachio, as well as a savory option filled with goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.

Last but not least on our list is Tony's Pizza Napoletana. While they're primarily known for their pizza, their cannolis are not to be missed. Their shells are filled with a sweetened ricotta cream and topped with candied orange peel, making for a perfectly balanced dessert.

In conclusion, San Francisco may be known for its sourdough bread and seafood, but it also has some of the best cannoli options around. Whether you're looking for a traditional Sicilian-style cannoli or a modern twist, San Francisco has it all. So next time you're in the city, be sure to indulge in some of these delicious cannolis.

The Best Cannoli in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to a thriving food scene, with an abundance of restaurants and bakeries offering a range of delicious treats. For those with a sweet tooth, cannoli is a must-try dessert. Here are some of the best places to enjoy cannoli in San Francisco.

Stella Pastry & Cafe

Located in North Beach, Stella Pastry & Cafe has been serving up traditional Italian pastries since 1940. Their cannoli is made fresh daily, with a crunchy shell filled with creamy ricotta cheese. The filling is perfectly sweetened, with just a hint of cinnamon, making for a delightful dessert.

B Patisserie

B Patisserie is a French-style bakery in Pacific Heights, known for their delectable croissants and pastries. Their cannoli is a standout, with a light and crispy shell and a rich, smooth filling. The addition of chocolate chips and candied orange peel adds a nice texture and flavor to the dessert.

Tony's Pizza Napoletana

Tony's Pizza Napoletana is a popular pizza joint in North Beach, but they also offer some of the best cannoli in the city. Their shells are hand-rolled and fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy and flaky texture. The filling is a blend of ricotta and mascarpone cheese, with a touch of vanilla and orange zest.

Villa D'este

Villa D'este is a charming Italian cafe in North Beach, offering a range of desserts including cannoli. Their shells are handmade and fried to order, resulting in a warm and crispy texture. The filling is a blend of ricotta and marsala wine, giving it a unique and flavorful twist.

The Italian Homemade Company

The Italian Homemade Company is a family-owned business in North Beach, offering a range of fresh pasta and sauces. They also have a delicious cannoli, with a crunchy shell and a creamy, sweet filling. The addition of chopped pistachios on top adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

Dianda's Italian American Pastry

Dianda's Italian American Pastry has been a staple in the Mission district since 1962. Their cannoli is a customer favorite, with a crispy shell and a sweet, creamy filling. They offer both traditional and chocolate-dipped versions, perfect for satisfying any sweet craving.

Mary's Pizza Shack

Mary's Pizza Shack is a casual Italian restaurant in the Marina district, offering a range of pizzas and pastas. Their cannoli is a standout dessert, with a crispy shell and a rich, creamy filling. The addition of mini chocolate chips on top adds a nice texture and flavor to the dessert.

Molinari Delicatessen

Molinari Delicatessen is a family-owned deli in North Beach, offering a range of Italian meats and cheeses. They also have a delicious cannoli, with a crispy shell and a sweet, creamy filling. The addition of candied fruit on top adds a nice pop of color and sweetness to the dessert.

Tartine Bakery

Tartine Bakery is a beloved bakery in the Mission district, known for their flaky croissants and breads. They also offer a delicious cannoli, with a crispy shell and a smooth, creamy filling. The addition of orange zest and chopped pistachios on top adds a nice flavor and texture to the dessert.

Victoria Pastry Co.

Victoria Pastry Co. is a family-owned bakery in North Beach, known for their delicious cakes and pastries. Their cannoli is a standout dessert, with a crispy shell and a sweet, creamy filling. The addition of chocolate chips on top adds a nice crunch and flavor to the dessert.

In conclusion, San Francisco offers a range of delicious cannoli options, from traditional to unique twists on the classic dessert. Whether you're in the mood for a crispy shell or a creamy filling, there's a cannoli for everyone in San Francisco.

The History of Cannoli in San Francisco: Where to Find the BestSan Francisco may be known for its sourdough bread and seafood, but it's also home to some of the best cannoli in the country. Cannoli, a traditional Italian dessert, has been popular in the city for decades. In fact, many bakeries in San Francisco have been making cannoli for generations.The history of cannoli in San Francisco dates back to the early 1900s when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the city. The first Italian bakery in San Francisco, Victoria Pastry Company, opened its doors in North Beach in 1914. Since then, numerous Italian bakeries have popped up throughout the city, each adding its own unique twist to the classic dessert.The Authentic Italian Cannoli Experience in San FranciscoIf you're looking for an authentic Italian cannoli experience, head to North Beach. This neighborhood is known as San Francisco's Little Italy and is home to some of the city's best Italian bakeries.One of the most popular bakeries in North Beach is Stella Pastry & Cafe. This family-run bakery has been serving up traditional Italian pastries, including cannoli, since 1942. The cannoli at Stella Pastry & Cafe are made with a sweet ricotta filling and crispy shell that's fried to perfection. They also offer a variety of flavors, including chocolate chip and pistachio.Another must-visit bakery in North Beach is Victoria Pastry Company. This bakery has been in business for over 100 years and is famous for its cannoli. The cannoli at Victoria Pastry Company are filled with a creamy ricotta filling and topped with powdered sugar. They also offer a chocolate-dipped version for those looking for something a bit more indulgent.Must-Try Cannoli Flavors in San FranciscoWhile traditional cannoli flavors like vanilla and chocolate chip are always a hit, San Francisco bakeries are known for their unique and creative twists on the classic dessert.At Dianda's Italian American Pastry, you can try their popular Nutella cannoli. This bakery fills their cannoli shells with a rich Nutella filling that's sure to satisfy any chocolate lover.If you're in the mood for something fruity, head to Mara's Italian Pastries. This bakery offers a delicious lemon cannoli that's filled with a tangy lemon ricotta filling and topped with powdered sugar.For those who love a bit of spice, head to La Siciliana Bakery. Their spicy chocolate cannoli is filled with a chocolate and cinnamon ricotta filling and dusted with cayenne pepper for a kick.The Best Cannoli Bakeries in the CitySan Francisco is home to countless Italian bakeries, each offering their own unique take on cannoli. Here are some of the best cannoli bakeries in the city.- Stella Pastry & Cafe: Famous for their traditional cannoli and variety of flavors.- Victoria Pastry Company: A San Francisco institution that's been serving up cannoli for over 100 years.- Dianda's Italian American Pastry: Known for their Nutella cannoli and other creative flavors.- Mara's Italian Pastries: Offers a delicious lemon cannoli and other fruity flavors.- La Siciliana Bakery: A must-visit for those who love a bit of spice in their cannoli.Where to Find Vegan and Gluten-Free Cannoli in San FranciscoIf you have dietary restrictions, don't worry - there are plenty of options for vegan and gluten-free cannoli in San Francisco.At Wholesome Bakery, you can enjoy their vegan cannoli made with a cashew-based ricotta filling and gluten-free shell. This bakery also offers a variety of other vegan and gluten-free desserts.Mariposa Baking Company is another great option for those with dietary restrictions. They offer a gluten-free cannoli that's filled with a vanilla ricotta filling and dusted with powdered sugar.The Perfect Accompaniments to Your Cannoli in San FranciscoWhile cannoli is delicious on its own, it's even better when paired with the perfect accompaniments.At Molinari Delicatessen, you can enjoy your cannoli with a cup of freshly brewed Italian coffee. This deli has been serving up authentic Italian fare since 1896 and is a great spot to grab a cannoli to-go.For a more upscale experience, head to Coqueta. This Spanish-inspired restaurant offers a dessert platter that includes a mini cannoli along with other sweet treats like churros and chocolate cake.The Secret to Making Perfect Cannoli: An Insider's GuideMaking perfect cannoli takes skill and patience. We spoke with Tony Gemignani, a world-renowned pizza chef and owner of Tony's Pizza Napoletana, for his insider tips on making the perfect cannoli.According to Gemignani, the key to making perfect cannoli is in the dough. The dough needs to be rolled thin enough to get that crispy texture, he says. If it's too thick, it won't be crispy enough.Gemignani also stresses the importance of using high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the ricotta filling. It's important to use fresh ricotta that's not too wet, he says. You want a firm ricotta that's not going to make the shell soggy.Finally, Gemignani recommends letting the cannoli shells cool completely before filling them. If you fill the shells while they're still warm, the filling will melt and the shell will become soggy, he warns.The Best Places to Enjoy Cannoli with a View in San FranciscoSan Francisco is known for its stunning views, and what better way to enjoy them than with a delicious cannoli in hand?At the Ferry Building Marketplace, you can grab a cannoli from La Cocina's El Pipila and enjoy it while taking in views of the Bay Bridge. El Pipila's cannoli are filled with a creamy mascarpone filling and dusted with powdered sugar.For a more relaxed vibe, head to Dolores Park. This popular park offers beautiful views of the city skyline and is a great spot to enjoy a cannoli from Bi-Rite Creamery. Bi-Rite's cannoli are filled with a sweet ricotta filling and topped with candied orange peel.The Art of the Cannoli: Creative and Unique Options in San FranciscoWhile traditional cannoli flavors are always a hit, San Francisco bakeries are known for their creative and unique twists on the classic dessert.At Holy Cannoli, you can try their popular cannoli cupcake. This bakery takes the cannoli filling and tops it on a vanilla cupcake for a delicious and unique treat.If you're in the mood for something savory, head to Molinari Delicatessen. This deli offers a cannoli filled with prosciutto, ricotta, and fig jam for a sweet and salty combination.For a boozy twist on the classic dessert, head to The Ice Cream Bar. This soda fountain offers a cannoli ice cream sundae that's made with cannoli shell pieces, vanilla gelato, and a drizzle of amaretto syrup.The Ultimate Cannoli Crawl: How to Sample the Best in San FranciscoReady to sample some of the best cannoli in San Francisco? Here's an ultimate cannoli crawl that will take you through some of the city's best bakeries.- Start your crawl at Stella Pastry & Cafe and enjoy their traditional cannoli.- Head to Victoria Pastry Company for a taste of their famous cannoli.- Stop by Dianda's Italian American Pastry for their Nutella cannoli.- Next, head to Mara's Italian Pastries for their delicious lemon cannoli.- Finish off your crawl at La Siciliana Bakery for their spicy chocolate cannoli.Whether you're a traditionalist or looking for something unique, San Francisco has a cannoli for everyone. From classic flavors to creative twists, these bakeries are serving up some of the best cannoli in the country. So grab a cannoli (or two) and indulge in this delicious Italian dessert in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Best Cannoli in San Francisco

Point of View

As an avid cannoli enthusiast, I have tried many different cannolis in San Francisco and can confidently say that the best cannoli can be found at Victoria Pastry Co.

Pros

- The filling is perfectly sweetened and has a smooth texture.

- The shell is crispy and flaky, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite.

- The size of the cannoli is generous and can easily be shared.

- The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making the overall experience enjoyable.

Cons

- The price point for a single cannoli is higher compared to other bakeries in the area.

- The location can be difficult to get to for those who don't live in the neighborhood.

- Limited flavor options are available, with only traditional and chocolate chip being the two variations offered.

Table Comparison

Bakery	Pros	Cons
Victoria Pastry Co.	Perfectly sweetened filling Crispy and flaky shell Generous size Knowledgeable and friendly staff	Higher price point Difficult location Limited flavor options
Stella Pastry & Cafe	Wide variety of flavors Affordable price point Convenient location	Filling can be too sweet for some Shell can be too thick and doughy
Mara's Italian Bakery	Generous size Filling is not overly sweet Shell is crispy	Limited flavor options Can be too oily Customer service can be hit or miss

In conclusion, while there are many bakeries in San Francisco that offer cannolis, Victoria Pastry Co. stands out as the best due to its perfectly sweetened filling and crispy shell. However, it does come with a higher price point and limited flavor options. It's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision on where to get your cannoli fix.

The Best Cannoli in San Francisco: Conclusion

Thank you for joining me on this journey to find the best cannoli in San Francisco. I hope you enjoyed reading about my experiences and recommendations. As we come to a close, I want to share some final thoughts and insights.

First and foremost, the cannoli scene in San Francisco is truly amazing. From traditional Italian bakeries to modern fusion cafes, there are so many options to choose from. Each cannoli has its own unique flavor profile, texture, and presentation. It's truly a dessert that can be enjoyed in so many different ways.

Throughout my search, I discovered that the best cannoli in San Francisco is subjective. Everyone has their own personal preference and taste buds. Some may prefer a classic, no-frills cannoli while others may enjoy a creative twist on the traditional recipe. Therefore, I encourage you to explore and try different places until you find your own personal favorite.

However, if I had to choose a top recommendation, it would be Golden Gate Bakery. Their freshly baked shells and creamy filling make for a heavenly bite. It's no wonder they have a cult following and lines out the door. Just make sure to arrive early and be prepared for a wait.

Another important aspect of finding the best cannoli is the atmosphere and experience. Many of the bakeries and cafes offer a cozy and welcoming environment. It's a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in a sweet treat. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with the bakers or staff. They often have interesting stories and insights to share.

Lastly, I want to emphasize the importance of supporting small businesses. Many of the cannoli shops in San Francisco are family-owned and operated. They put in countless hours and hard work to deliver high-quality desserts to their customers. By supporting them, we are not only satisfying our sweet tooth but also contributing to the local economy and community.

In conclusion, the best cannoli in San Francisco is a journey worth taking. It's a dessert that has the power to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether you're a local or a tourist, I encourage you to explore the city's cannoli scene and discover your own personal favorite. And who knows, maybe one day you'll find yourself in line at Golden Gate Bakery, eagerly waiting for a fresh batch of cannoli.

Thank you for reading and happy cannoli hunting!