Top Cannoli Spots To Visit In Philadelphia

Philadelphia has earned its reputation as a food lover’s paradise, and when it comes to Italian desserts, cannoli reign supreme. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, finding the perfect crispy shell filled with creamy ricotta is like discovering hidden treasure.

I’ve explored the city’s best bakeries and cafes to bring you this guide to the most delicious cannoli spots that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.

1. Isgro Pasticceria

Since 1904, this bakery has been crafting cannoli that set the standard for excellence in Philadelphia. Walking past the storefront, you’ll see locals lining up at all hours for their famous treats.

What makes their cannoli stand out is the delicate balance between the shell’s crispiness and the filling’s creaminess. They use a secret family recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and honestly, you can taste the history in every bite.

The shop itself is charming and old-school, with glass cases displaying rows of perfectly piped cannoli. I recommend trying their traditional version first before exploring their seasonal flavors.

2. Varallo Brothers Bakery

Tucked away in the heart of the Italian Market, this gem has been serving authentic cannoli since the 1930s. You might miss it if you’re not paying attention, but locals know exactly where to find it.

Their cannoli shells are impossibly light and shatter perfectly when you bite down. The filling is traditional ricotta mixed with just enough sugar to enhance the natural flavor without overpowering it.

I appreciate that they don’t pre-fill their cannoli, which means you get maximum crispiness with zero sogginess. The portions are generous, and the prices remain surprisingly affordable considering the quality you’re getting.

3. Sabrina’s Cafe

Known primarily for brunch, this popular cafe surprises dessert lovers with cannoli that rival any traditional Italian bakery. The modern twist they bring to classic recipes makes each visit exciting.

Their cannoli feature a perfectly fried shell filled with house-made ricotta that’s lighter and fluffier than most. What really caught my attention was the creative flavor combinations they rotate seasonally, like pumpkin spice in fall or lemon ricotta in summer.

The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot to enjoy cannoli alongside a cappuccino. I suggest going during off-peak hours to avoid the weekend brunch crowds.

4. DiBruno Bros

This gourmet Italian market takes cannoli to another level with premium ingredients and innovative flavor profiles. You’ll find everything from classic ricotta to exotic combinations you never knew you needed.

What sets them apart is their commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients, including imported Italian pistachios and Belgian chocolate. The shells are made fresh daily, and the fillings change based on what’s in season and what the pastry chef feels inspired to create.

The market atmosphere adds to the experience, letting you browse specialty foods while planning your cannoli selection. Prices run higher than traditional bakeries, but the quality justifies every penny.

5. Dante & Luigi’s Corona di Ferro

America’s oldest Italian restaurant doesn’t just excel at pasta and sauce—their cannoli deserve equal recognition. After a hearty meal here, finishing with their signature dessert feels like the perfect ending to a story.

The restaurant makes cannoli using a recipe that dates back to their 1899 opening. Each shell is delicate yet sturdy, filled with a ricotta blend that’s been perfected over more than a century of service.

I recommend ordering one to share after dinner, though you might regret not getting your own. The old-world ambiance makes every bite taste even more special, transporting you straight to Sicily.

6. Termini Brothers Bakery

Walking into this South Philly institution feels like stepping into your Italian grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of fresh pastries hits you immediately, and the cannoli here have been perfection since 1921.

Every shell gets fried to order, ensuring that signature crunch with every bite. The ricotta filling is smooth, not too sweet, and dotted with mini chocolate chips that add just the right texture.

I love that they offer multiple sizes, so you can grab a small one as a quick treat or go big for special occasions. The staff treats everyone like family, making recommendations based on what you’re craving that day.

7. Rim Cafe

This neighborhood cafe in South Philadelphia serves cannoli that locals swear by but tourists often overlook. Finding it feels like discovering a secret that the whole city should know about.

Their approach is straightforward and traditional, focusing on quality ingredients rather than fancy variations. The ricotta filling is smooth and perfectly sweetened, while the shells provide that essential crunch that makes cannoli so satisfying.

What I love most is the friendly service and the fact that they’re never too busy to chat about their pastries. Pair your cannoli with their excellent espresso for an authentic Italian experience without leaving Philadelphia.

8. Faragalli Bakery

Operating since 1947, this family bakery has perfected the art of cannoli through decades of practice and passion. The third generation now runs the shop, maintaining the same standards that made their grandparents famous.

Their cannoli shells have a unique texture that’s slightly thicker than most, providing extra crunch without becoming hard or difficult to eat. The ricotta filling strikes that perfect balance between sweet and tangy, with optional toppings like crushed pistachios or candied orange peel.

The bakery stays true to old-school methods, refusing to cut corners or modernize recipes that already work perfectly. Shopping here feels like time travel to mid-century Philadelphia.

9. Sarcone’s Bakery

Best known for their incredible bread, this bakery also produces cannoli that deserve your attention. The same dedication to quality that goes into their famous rolls shows up in their desserts.

What surprised me most was how they manage to keep their cannoli shells crispy even during humid Philadelphia summers. The filling is traditional ricotta with a hint of vanilla, simple but executed flawlessly every single time.

The bakery itself is no-frills and focused on production rather than ambiance, but that’s part of its charm. Grab your cannoli to go and enjoy them at one of the nearby parks for the perfect afternoon treat.

10. Cafe Napoli

This authentic Italian cafe transports you straight to Naples with its atmosphere and desserts. The owners immigrated from Italy and brought their family recipes with them, including their outstanding cannoli.

Every component is made from scratch daily, from the shells to the filling to the optional toppings. The ricotta is imported from a specific producer in Italy, giving it a flavor profile you won’t find at other Philadelphia spots.

I recommend visiting during the afternoon when the cafe is quieter and you can really appreciate the peaceful European vibe. The cannoli pairs beautifully with their strong Italian espresso for an authentic experience.