Palermo, the vibrant and culturally rich capital of Sicily, is known for its delectable and mouth-watering pastries, bread, and cakes. The city and its province are filled with a myriad of bakeries, each offering unique and tantalizing treats. Here, we present a selection of the best bakeries in Palermo and its province.
1. Antico Caffè Spinnato: Founded in 1860, Antico Caffè Spinnato is not just a historic café but also one of the finest bakeries in Palermo. Famous for its traditional Sicilian pastries such as cannoli, cassatelle, and almond biscuits, this bakery has been delighting locals and visitors alike for generations.
2. Pasticceria Cappello: Another iconic bakery in Palermo is Pasticceria Cappello. Renowned for its innovative approach to pastries, this bakery offers a wide range of delicious treats. The standout item is their famous Setteveli cake, characterized by its seven layers of chocolate perfection.
3. Focacceria San Francesco: While many bakeries focus on sweet treats, Focacceria San Francesco is a must-visit for savory lovers. Specializing in Palermo’s traditional street food, their panelle and crocchè (chickpea fritters and potato croquettes) are simply unbeatable. Pair them with a warm, freshly-baked focaccia, and you have a match made in bakery heaven.
4. Panificio Picone: For those in search of traditional rustic bread, look no further than Panificio Picone. This bakery has been serving up freshly baked bread since 1920. Their pane nero (black bread) and filoncini (breadsticks) are must-try items for bread enthusiasts.
5. Forno Santa Chiara: Tucked away in the picturesque streets of the Kalsa district, Forno Santa Chiara is a gem for artisanal bread and pastries. Their ciabatta bread and pizza rustica (Sicilian-style pizza) are renowned for their exceptional taste. Don’t forget to try their almond cookies for a sweet ending to your visit.
6. Pasticceria Massaro: Located in the neighboring province of Trapani, Pasticceria Massaro is worth the journey for its extraordinary pastries. Their traditional cassata (Sicilian sponge cake) and cannoli are masterpieces of flavors and textures. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the genovese, a local specialty resembling a custard-filled brioche-like bread.
7. Bar del Fico: Just a stone’s throw away from Palermo, in the quaint village of Monreale, sits Bar del Fico. This family-run bakery has been crafting artisanal pastries for over 70 years. Their sfogliatelle, filled with creamy ricotta and dusted with powdered sugar, are simply irresistible.
8. Pasticceria Costa: A visit to Bagheria, a town outside of Palermo, should include a stop at Pasticceria Costa. This bakery is renowned for its phenomenal wedding cakes and baked goods. Their marzipan fruit-shaped pastries are not only visually stunning but also incredibly scrumptious.
Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer savory delights, Palermo and its province offer a plethora of options to satisfy your cravings. From historic bakeries steeped in tradition to innovative pastry shops, there is something to please every palate. So, embark on a culinary adventure and explore the best bakeries that Palermo and its surrounding areas have to offer.