Franklin Avenue Little Italy
Hartford's historic Italian enclave, famous for Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery's legendary cannolis and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, quicker service
Franklin Avenue Little Italy
Best Time
Fewer crowds, quicker service
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hartford's historic Italian enclave, famous for Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery's legendary cannolis and a vibrant community atmosphere.
"The best cannolis I've ever had, with a ricotta cream that makes all the difference!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cannoli Perfection
Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery
Experience the best cannolis with a rich ricotta cream filling. Customize with chocolate chips, pistachios, or cherries.
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
Franklin Avenue
Stroll down Franklin Avenue to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Hartford's historic Italian-American community.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sweetness
Parking and Service
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
Good bakeries inHartford County/Farmington/Avon areas?
🍰 Cake Caution
Be mindful of cake box size to prevent design damage.
🍪 Cookie Variety
Explore a vast selection of cookies, including delicious rainbow cookies.
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.
🚗 Hassle-Free Parking
Plenty of parking is available behind Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery.
🍰 Cake Caution
Be mindful of cake box size to prevent design damage.
🍪 Cookie Variety
Explore a vast selection of cookies, including delicious rainbow cookies.
🇮🇹 Immerse in Italian Culture
Enjoy the authentic atmosphere of Hartford's historic Italian enclave.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There are no entrance fees for Franklin Avenue Little Italy. It's a vibrant neighborhood to explore at your own pace.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery is the most renowned bakery on Franklin Avenue, famous for its cannolis and extensive cookie selection.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sweet Heart of Hartford: Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery
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. 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.
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
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.
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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