Franklin Avenue (Little Italy) - Image 1
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Franklin Avenue Little Italy

4
·528 reviews·Hartford, United States

Hartford's historic Italian enclave, famous for Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery's legendary cannolis and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, quicker service

CrowdLow
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Franklin Avenue (Little Italy) - Image 1

Franklin Avenue Little Italy

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, quicker service

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hartford's historic Italian enclave, famous for Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery's legendary cannolis and a vibrant community atmosphere.

4
(528 reviews)

"The best cannolis I've ever had, with a ricotta cream that makes all the difference!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Cannoli Wait is Worth It

Freshly filled cannolis are a must-try! Expect a short wait as they're made to order.

🚗 Hassle-Free Parking

Plenty of parking is available behind Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cannoli Perfection

Cannoli Perfection

Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery

Experience the best cannolis with a rich ricotta cream filling. Customize with chocolate chips, pistachios, or cherries.

Rainbow Cookies

Rainbow Cookies

Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery

A classic Italian treat, these colorful cookies are a delightful mix of almond cake, jam, and chocolate.

Italian Enclave Charm

Italian Enclave Charm

Franklin Avenue

Stroll down Franklin Avenue to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Hartford's historic Italian-American community.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sweetness

Franklin Avenue's Little Italy is a haven for Italian pastries and baked goods. Be prepared for tempting displays and a wide variety of cannolis, cookies, and cakes. It's a popular spot, so expect a wait for fresh cannolis.

Parking and Service

While parking behind Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is generally hassle-free, customer service can be inconsistent. Some visitors report being ignored, while others praise the helpful staff. Patience is key!

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, quicker service
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Freshly baked goods await
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mozzicatos in hartford ct #ctfood #ctfoodie #hartford #connecticut #italianfood #pastryshop
@red.car.crew
5.1K likes • 145.7K views

🎯 Cannoli Wait is Worth It

Freshly filled cannolis are a must-try! Expect a short wait as they're made to order. Reddit

🚗 Hassle-Free Parking

Plenty of parking is available behind Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery. Reddit

This great piece about the Hartford, CT Front Street enclave which was demolished and relocated to the South End along Franklin Avenue and is still very much an Italian enclave today. #hartford #italian #italianamerican #littleitaly #connecticut #italianenclave #littleitaly
italianenclaves
155 likes • 3.7K views
reddit.com

Good bakeries inHartford County/Farmington/Avon areas?

🍰 Cake Caution

Be mindful of cake box size to prevent design damage. Reddit

🍪 Cookie Variety

Explore a vast selection of cookies, including delicious rainbow cookies. TikTok

reddit.com

Best dessert spots (that aren't ice cream)

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Cannoli Wait is Worth It

Freshly filled cannolis are a must-try! Expect a short wait as they're made to order. Reddit

🚗 Hassle-Free Parking

Plenty of parking is available behind Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery. Reddit

🍰 Cake Caution

Be mindful of cake box size to prevent design damage. Reddit

🍪 Cookie Variety

Explore a vast selection of cookies, including delicious rainbow cookies. TikTok

🇮🇹 Immerse in Italian Culture

Enjoy the authentic atmosphere of Hartford's historic Italian enclave. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4
(528 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Franklin Avenue Little Italy, particularly Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery, is celebrated for its authentic Italian pastries, especially the legendary cannolis and a vast array of cookies. Visitors appreciate the nostalgic atmosphere and convenient parking. However, some patrons have noted inconsistent customer service and occasional issues with cake presentation.

"My husband and I visited the Wallingford location after visiting to the bank next door. The food look delicious, displays were absolutely beautiful but we stood there for 10 minutes and neither worker even acknowledged us. It's like we were ghost. Somebody needs to explain to the staff that it's bad form to ignore the customer. At least acknowledge the customer by saying "I'll be with you in a minute". We were fully aware you were waiting on another customer."

Linda Blackburn

"Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is a hidden gem that offers a delightful experience for dessert lovers. One of the standout features is the hassle-free parking, with plenty of open spots behind the bakery, making it incredibly convenient for visitors.

The bakery boasts an impressive variety of cake options, each one more tempting than the last. However, it’s the cookies that truly steal the show. With a plethora of options to choose from, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth, and they are worth every penny.

A visit to Mozzicato DePasquale isn’t complete without trying their top-notch cannolis. These Italian classics are crafted to perfection, offering a delightful balance of crispy shells and rich, creamy fillings. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick treat or picking up a dessert for a special occasion, this bakery is sure to impress.​⬤"

guru shankar

"Don’t purchase cakes here, we purchased a cake here for my mom’s birthday and they put the cake in a box that was way too big. The cake slid and it ruin the cake design. Horrible experience never again. Customer service sucks here."

Ron

What People Like

Authentic Italian pastries
Legendary cannolis
Vast cookie selection

What People Dislike

Inconsistent customer service
Cake packaging issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Franklin Avenue Little Italy is located in Hartford, Connecticut. The most prominent spot is Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery at 373 Franklin Ave. Driving is the most common way to access the area, with ample parking available behind the bakery. Public transportation options may be limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving. Instagram

Yes, there is convenient and hassle-free parking available behind Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery. This is a major plus for visitors looking for a sweet treat. Reddit

The best way to experience Franklin Avenue Little Italy is to immerse yourself in the atmosphere, sample the delicious pastries, and enjoy the community feel. Visiting Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is a must for any dessert lover. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to visit Franklin Avenue Little Italy. It's a public street and neighborhood. You only pay for any food or goods you purchase from the shops and bakeries. Instagram

Operating hours for Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or call ahead. However, they are typically open during daytime hours, especially on weekends. Reddit

There are no entrance fees for Franklin Avenue Little Italy. It's a vibrant neighborhood to explore at your own pace. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The absolute must-try items are the cannolis, made with a delicious ricotta cream filling. Rainbow cookies are also highly recommended, along with a wide variety of other pastries and cakes. TikTokReddit

Franklin Avenue Little Italy offers a charming and authentic Italian-American atmosphere. It's a place where you can feel the history and community spirit, especially around Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery. Instagram

Yes, Franklin Avenue Little Italy can be a delightful experience for families, especially if they have a sweet tooth! The variety of pastries and the welcoming atmosphere make it a fun outing. Reddit

Beyond pastries, you can find various Italian specialties. While Mozzicato is known for sweets, the area has a history of Italian delis and restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is the most renowned bakery on Franklin Avenue, famous for its cannolis and extensive cookie selection. TikTokReddit

While Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is primarily known for its sweets, some reviews mention their pizza being surprisingly good. For a full Italian meal, exploring other establishments in the broader Little Italy area might be necessary. Reddit

Information on specific gluten-free or vegan options at Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is not widely available. It's best to inquire directly with the bakery about their offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The beautifully displayed pastries and cakes at Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery offer fantastic photo opportunities. The vibrant streetscape of Franklin Avenue itself also provides a charming backdrop. TikTokInstagram

Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the bakeries to capture the delicious treats. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other customers and staff. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Franklin Avenue Little Italy, especially Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery, is a fantastic destination for families. Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful displays of cakes and cookies. The cannolis are a guaranteed hit, and the variety of rainbow cookies offers something for every child's preference. TikTok The ample parking makes it easy to manage with little ones, and the sweet treats provide a delightful reward after a day out. Just be prepared for potential crowds, especially on weekends, and perhaps a short wait for those freshly made cannolis. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While some specialty pastries can add up, Franklin Avenue Little Italy offers good value, especially considering the quality. Cookies are often sold by the pound, allowing you to get a good variety for a reasonable price. TikTok A single cannoli is an affordable indulgence. Reddit Consider sharing larger items or focusing on a few key treats to keep costs down. The experience of exploring the historic Italian enclave is free, making it an accessible cultural outing. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sweet Heart of Hartford: Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery

Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is the undisputed star of Franklin Avenue's Little Italy. This beloved establishment has been serving up authentic Italian pastries for years, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The displays are a feast for the eyes, showcasing an impressive array of cakes, cookies, and other Italian specialties. Reddit

Their cannolis are legendary, made with a rich, creamy ricotta filling that sets them apart. Visitors often rave about the ability to customize them with various toppings. Beyond cannolis, the rainbow cookies are another highly recommended treat, offering a delightful almond flavor and vibrant colors. TikTok Be prepared for a potential wait, especially for freshly filled cannolis, as they are made to order – a testament to their popularity and commitment to freshness. Reddit

While the bakery is a sweet paradise, some reviews mention inconsistent customer service and issues with cake packaging. However, the overwhelming sentiment is positive, with many praising the quality of the baked goods and the authentic experience. It's a place that evokes fond memories and satisfies even the most discerning sweet tooth.

Franklin Avenue: A Living Italian Enclave

Franklin Avenue in Hartford is more than just a street; it's a living testament to the city's vibrant Italian-American heritage. Once a bustling hub for Italian immigrants, the area, particularly around Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery, continues to embody the spirit of a traditional Little Italy. Instagram

This enclave offers a glimpse into a rich cultural history, where the aroma of Italian baking fills the air and the community spirit is palpable. While some of the original structures may have changed, the essence of the Italian-American experience remains. It's a place where generations have gathered, celebrated, and shared their traditions, making it a significant cultural landmark in Hartford. Instagram

Exploring Franklin Avenue allows visitors to connect with this heritage, whether through the delicious pastries or simply by soaking in the unique atmosphere. It's a reminder of the enduring legacy of immigrant communities and their contributions to the fabric of American cities.

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