10 Boston Cannoli Counters Competing With The Classics

Boston’s North End has long been famous for its iconic cannoli shops, where locals line up for crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta cream.

While Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry battle for the title of cannoli king, newcomers across the city are creating their own delicious versions of this Italian treat.

From creative flavors to traditional techniques, these ten spots are challenging the old-school favorites with fresh takes on the beloved dessert.

1. Bova’s Bakery: The 24-Hour Cannoli Fix

Tucked away on Salem Street, Bova’s offers something the big-name shops don’t round-the-clock cannoli access! Family-owned since 1932, this neighborhood gem serves traditional cannoli with a perfectly crisp shell that maintains its crunch even hours after filling.

I love their ricotta cream because it strikes that ideal balance between sweet and tangy. The chocolate chips are distributed evenly throughout, not just at the ends for show.

When midnight cravings hit, Bova’s welcomes night owls and early birds alike. Their late-night popularity with chefs after closing shifts speaks volumes about quality. The constant turnover ensures you’re always getting freshly filled cannoli rather than pre-made versions that get soggy.

2. Eataly Boston: Italian Market Authenticity

Hiding within the massive Italian marketplace at Prudential Center, Eataly’s pastry counter creates cannoli that would make a Sicilian grandmother proud. Their shells arrive directly from Italy, providing that distinctive honeycomb texture that’s hard to replicate stateside.

What makes their filling special is the imported sheep’s milk ricotta slightly tangier and more complex than the cow’s milk version most shops use. You can watch as they pipe the filling fresh when you order, ensuring that perfect shell-to-cream ratio.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try their pistachio-dipped ends or seasonal variations like the summer strawberry cannoli. The marketplace setting means you can grab authentic Italian coffee to complement your treat a perfect pairing!

3. Caffe Paradiso: Hidden North End Treasure

Locals whisper about Caffe Paradiso as the North End’s best-kept secret. While tourists crowd the famous shops, neighborhood residents slip into this cozy Hanover Street café for what many consider the most authentic cannoli in Boston.

Their shells strike that elusive perfect balance substantial enough to hold the filling without shattering at first bite, yet delicate enough to complement rather than overwhelm the cream. The filling recipe remains a closely guarded family secret, but the slightly citrusy note suggests a hint of orange zest.

Don’t miss their espresso the rich, perfectly pulled shots cut through the sweetness of the cannoli beautifully. The café’s relaxed atmosphere invites lingering, unlike the take-a-number hustle at bigger establishments. This is where Italians actually go for cannoli.

4. Thinking Cup: Coffee Shop Cannoli Revolution

Who would expect exceptional cannoli from a place known primarily for pour-over coffee? Thinking Cup on Tremont Street surprises dessert enthusiasts with cannoli that rival dedicated pastry shops. Their secret weapon is a partnership with a local Italian baker who delivers shells daily.

Unlike traditional versions, Thinking Cup offers both classic and contemporary fillings. My favorite is their maple mascarpone a New England twist that somehow works perfectly with the traditional shell. The coffee pairing possibilities elevate the entire experience.

Though slightly smaller than North End versions, these cannoli deliver big flavor in a perfectly proportioned package. The convenient downtown location makes this an ideal spot for cannoli cravings when you can’t make the trek to the North End. Their outdoor seating along Boston Common adds another layer of enjoyment.

5. Lyndell’s Bakery: Century-Old Cannoli Tradition

Since 1887, Lyndell’s has been serving Somerville sweet treats, and their cannoli recipe has remained virtually unchanged for generations. This historic Ball Square bakery offers a distinctly American take on the Italian classic slightly sweeter filling and a shell that’s a touch more substantial.

Though purists might debate the authenticity, I find their adaptation charming and delicious. The filling incorporates a hint of vanilla bean that complements the ricotta beautifully. Their chocolate-dipped shells add another dimension of flavor and help prevent sogginess.

Lyndell’s unpretentious approach extends to their prices significantly lower than North End competitors without sacrificing quality. The bakery’s vintage vibe, complete with display cases from the 1940s, adds to the experience. Visit early for the freshest selection, as they frequently sell out of these local favorites by afternoon.

6. Flour Bakery: Joanne Chang’s Gourmet Twist

James Beard award-winning chef Joanne Chang brings her perfectionist approach to cannoli at her popular Flour Bakery locations throughout Boston. Unlike traditional versions, Chang’s cannoli shells incorporate a hint of cinnamon and orange zest directly into the dough, creating complex flavor in every bite.

Her ricotta filling undergoes a special straining process that creates an exceptionally smooth texture without sacrificing richness. Small chocolate pearls replace standard chips, melting pleasantly on the tongue rather than remaining crunchy.

Though only available on weekends, these cannoli attract dedicated followers who plan their schedules around availability. While purists might question some departures from tradition, the technical precision and quality ingredients justify the innovations. The South End location offers the most reliable cannoli stock, but calling ahead ensures you won’t leave disappointed.

7. Gigi Gelateria: Frozen Cannoli Innovation

North End newcomer Gigi Gelateria has created something revolutionary the gelato-filled cannoli that combines two iconic Italian desserts. Their Hanover Street shop prepares shells in the traditional manner but fills them with house-made gelato instead of ricotta cream.

My favorite combination features pistachio gelato in a chocolate-dipped shell. The contrast between warm, crispy pastry and cold, creamy gelato creates a textural wonderland. Since gelato melts quickly, these must be enjoyed immediately no taking them home!

During summer months, expect lines out the door as tourists and locals alike discover this refreshing twist. The owners, originally from Sicily, maintain that this style is actually common in southern Italy during warmer months. Whether traditional or not, these frozen cannoli provide perfect relief from Boston’s humid summers while honoring Italian culinary heritage.

8. Kane’s Donuts: Cannoli-Donut Hybrid Heaven

Kane’s has achieved cult status among Boston donut enthusiasts, but their cannoli cream-filled donut deserves equal attention. This creative hybrid features their signature yeast donut injected with traditional cannoli filling, then dusted with powdered sugar and chocolate chips.

While not a cannoli in the strict sense, this creation captures the essential flavor profile while adding the pillowy softness of fresh donuts. The textural contrast between fluffy dough and rich cream creates an entirely new dessert experience.

Their downtown Financial District location serves commuters seeking morning indulgence, while the original Saugus shop attracts dedicated fans making the pilgrimage. For those who find traditional cannoli shells too crunchy or messy to eat, this offers a perfect alternative. During the Christmas season, they offer a limited-edition version with peppermint-infused filling that sells out within hours of announcement.

9. Giacomo’s Pasticceria: Cannoli With A View

Perched in the vibrant Assembly Row development, Giacomo’s combines traditional cannoli craftsmanship with stunning Mystic River views. This family-run shop brings authentic Italian recipes to Somerville’s modern shopping district.

Their shells achieve that rare quality staying crisp for hours after filling. I’ve taken these cannoli home and enjoyed them the next day with minimal sogginess. The ricotta cream incorporates both chocolate chips and candied orange peel, creating delightful flavor complexity.

What truly sets Giacomo’s apart is their willingness to experiment with seasonal shells. During holidays, you might find red-tinted shells for Valentine’s Day or green-hued ones for St. Patrick’s Day. Despite these creative touches, the filling remains classically delicious. After shopping, grabbing a cannoli here while watching boats on the river creates a perfect Boston afternoon.

10. Tatte Bakery: Middle Eastern-Inspired Cannoli

Founder Tzurit Or brings her Israeli heritage to cannoli creation at Tatte’s multiple Boston locations. Her unique interpretation features shells infused with cardamom and a filling that incorporates labneh (strained yogurt) alongside traditional ricotta.

The result maintains structural integrity while introducing subtle flavor notes unfamiliar to most cannoli enthusiasts. Pistachio dust replaces chocolate chips at the ends, adding nutty richness and visual appeal. These cannoli pair beautifully with Tatte’s strong Middle Eastern coffee.

Though some traditionalists might question whether these qualify as true cannoli, I appreciate how they honor the form while introducing cross-cultural elements. The Harvard Square location typically offers the most consistent quality. Their elegant black and white packaging makes these perfect gifts for dessert-loving friends. The higher price point reflects both quality ingredients and the bakery’s stylish aesthetic.