With a maze of narrow streets, some of the city’s oldest buildings and a cafe on every corner, the North End is truly Boston’s own “Little Italy” — complete with the best cannoli in the city. These must-see locations around the North End will introduce you to the best that Boston has to offer.
Mike’s Pastry Shop, located on 300 Hanover St. in the heart of the North End, has been making cannoli since 1946. Mike’s is one of the most popular chains, often with long lines that extend out into the street, but that does not mean they are the best in the city. Though a favorite among tourists, many Boston natives label Mike’s pastries overrated.
Mike’s does serve the biggest cannoli, but many natives say the size does not make up for the flavor and that they prioritize quantity over quality. The size difference also makes Mike’s a bit more expensive than the rest, costing $7.00 per cannoli. On the other hand, Mike’s has a wide range of flavors to choose from, including the original, chocolate chip, Oreo and Nutella. They’ve also added new, trendy flavors such as Dubai chocolate and pumpkin spice. Due to its popularity, Mike’s has multiple locations, expanding out into Boston neighborhoods like Cambridge and Somerville, and it even has a location at the legendary TD Garden arena.
Modern Pastry Shop, located on 257 Hanover St., is just down the road from Mike’s. Despite the name, Modern is much older than Mike’s, established in 1930. Although Mike’s is more popular, lines at Modern still routinely extend out the door. Modern sells smaller cannoli than Mike’s, but they’re cheaper, costing $5.50 each.
Many say that even though the cannoli is smaller, the overall flavour is better. Unfortunately for some, Modern is another bakery that keeps the old-fashioned tradition of being cash only. When it comes to the menu, Modern doesn’t have the wide range of flavors that Mike’s has. When ordering, customers can pick their shell — regular or chocolate dipped — and the desired filling, including traditional ricotta, whipped cream and other flavors.
Finally, located on 134 Salem St. is Bova’s Bakery, a family-owned bakery that’s been open since 1932. Bova’s is not as popular as Mike’s or Modern, but that doesn’t mean it’s not as good. Many Boston natives claim it’s the best of the three, as it’s an underrated spot and different from the other two in a lot of ways. Bova’s is the only one that is open 24 hours, attracting long lines into late-night hours from people craving a snack after clubbing and partying while Mike’s and Modern are closed.
Bova’s does have the smallest cannoli out of the three, but is also cheapest at $5.20 per cannoli. Although Bova’s has the smallest cannoli, it’s another example of a bakery that prioritizes quality over quantity. Like Mike’s, Bova’s also has a wide range of flavors to choose from including regular, chocolate chip, Oreo and coffee.
Each bakery brings something unique to the table. Mike’s stands out for its large portions and wide range of flavors, though it comes at a higher price. Modern’s smaller cannoli has a rich, creamy filling that feels more traditional. Bova’s combines variety and flavor at a lower price. Ultimately, Boston’s best cannoli might depend on your on individual preference, but either way, it’s worth checking out these cannoli spots to experience the heart of Boston’s “Little Italy.”
