North Beach's Best Cannoli [Updated 2025]

With a rich heritage in Italian baking, I’ve savored countless cannolis from every corner of this vibrant neighborhood.

After reviewing twelve standout establishments, I can confidently share my top picks that encapsulate the essence of North Beach.

From the classic ricotta filling to unique twists that push the boundaries of tradition, there's a cannoli to satisfy every palate.

Join me as we embark on a delicious journey through the heart of North Beach, where you'll discover where to find the most delectable pastries to indulge your sweet tooth!

Tosca Cafe

Highlights
Friendly and efficient staff
Beautiful restaurant ambiance
Delicious tiramisu and gelato
Remarkable food presentation
Ideal for group reservations

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of North Beach, Tosca Cafe greets you with an inviting ambiance and a whisper of nostalgia. As I stepped inside, the warm, rustic decor wrapped around me like a cozy hug, setting the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. The friendly staff whisked me to my table with eager smiles, ready to present an array of delectable options.

Now, let’s get to the star attraction: the cannoli. As I took my first bite, the crispy shell crumbled beautifully, revealing a lusciously creamy filling that was perfectly balanced, not overly sweet, and infused with just a hint of citrus. Each element of this dessert was wonderfully presented, a true feast for both the eyes and the palate.

What made the experience at Tosca even more enjoyable was their offer of delightful accompaniments like tiramisu and gelato, creating a sinfully delicious trio. It’s worth mentioning that this place is perfect for group reservations. Not only did I leave with a satisfied sweet tooth, but I also felt like I had shared something truly special with the charming atmosphere that surrounded me. If you're in North Beach searching for cannoli bliss, Tosca Cafe is a must-visit!

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Fior d'Italia

Highlights
Historic dining experience
Live piano performance
Welcoming atmosphere
Pleasant tiramisu dessert
Oldest active restaurant

Fior d'Italia, a gem nestled in the vibrant enclave of North Beach, invites you into a world steeped in history and flavor. As the oldest active restaurant in San Francisco, stepping inside feels like entering a cozy Italian time capsule, where the aroma of freshly baked pastries mingles harmoniously with the soft notes of a live piano performance.

Now, let’s talk about the star of my visit: the cannoli! Crispy shells encased creamy ricotta filling, this masterpiece comes dusted with just the right amount of powdered sugar and a hint of citrus zest that elevates the experience to heavenly heights. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the smooth, sweet delight that lingers just long enough to have you craving more.

I must admit, amid delicious tiramisu calling my name, I found myself returning for round two of those decadent cannoli! With its welcoming atmosphere and delightful treats, Fior d'Italia not only serves dessert—it serves an unforgettable experience that beckons both locals and tourists alike. For anyone searching for the best cannoli in North Beach, this landmark restaurant is a must-visit destination!

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Toscano Brothers

Highlights
Joyful atmosphere
High-quality ingredients
Delicious mortadella sandwich
Pumpernickel bagels Saturday
Top-notch bread in SF

Toscano Brothers in North Beach is a delightful gem that captures the essence of Italian tradition with every bite. As I stepped inside, the joyful atmosphere enveloped me, a perfect prelude to the sweet journey ahead. Their cannoli—oh, where do I even begin? The high-quality ingredients truly shine through, showcasing the craftsmanship that goes into each delectable shell and creamy filling.

What I found particularly charming was the level of care they put into their products. The cannoli here strike a perfect balance between crispness and richness, enveloping a luscious, velvety filling that dances on the palate. To complement my sweet adventure, I couldn't resist trying their delicious mortadella sandwich, which was an equally satisfying treat.

Notably, their pumpernickel bagels on Saturdays were a delightful surprise, demonstrating their versatility in baking. If you happen to be in San Francisco, be sure to drop by for their top-notch bread as well. Overall, I can wholeheartedly recommend Toscano Brothers as your go-to spot for a memorable cannoli experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!

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Il Casaro Pizzeria

Highlights
Exceptional pizza dough
Charming outdoor ambiance
Quick and friendly service
Unique chili oil offerings
Fresh, local ingredients

Il Casaro Pizzeria is not just a haven for pizza lovers; it also serves up a hidden gem in the form of their cannoli. Nestled in the heart of North Beach, this charming spot offers a delightful outdoor ambiance that perfectly complements a sunny day. While the pizza here deserves its accolades, I was pleasantly surprised by the cannoli, which is often overshadowed by the crusty goodness of their pies.

As I took my first bite, the crisp shell gave way to a creamy filling that was both rich and perfectly sweet. It was evident that they use fresh, local ingredients—a hallmark of a truly great cannoli. And speaking of great, the quick and friendly service added a cherry on top of my experience.

But what truly sets Il Casaro apart is their unique chili oil offerings that tantalize the taste buds—imagine drizzling a few drops over your dessert! This unexpected twist made the cannoli feel adventurous yet comforting. If you're looking for a slice of culture alongside your sweet treat, Il Casaro is a must-visit in North Beach. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Stella Pastry

Stella Pastry is a charming gem nestled in the heart of North Beach, where the spirit of Italy dances on your palate. Their cannoli are a delightful revelation, featuring a perfectly crisp shell that yields to a sweet, creamy ricotta filling. Each bite is infused with just the right hint of vanilla, transforming a classic treat into an unforgettable experience. The dusting of powdered sugar adds that final touch of whimsy. If you're hunting for the best cannoli in the neighborhood, Stella Pastry is a must-visit. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Cavalli Cafe

At Cavalli Cafe, I was greeted by an inviting aroma that promised Italian delights. Their cannoli truly captured my heart—with a crispy shell that had a satisfying crunch and a creamy ricotta filling that was perfectly sweet, yet not overwhelming. The touch of chocolate chips added a delightful twist that elevated the traditional flavor. Each bite felt like a love letter to Italy, making it hard to resist going back for more. For anyone in search of a delightful cannoli experience, Cavalli Cafe is certainly a place worth savoring—where each creamy indulgence feels like a celebration!

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Victoria Pastry

Victoria Pastry is a delightful gem in North Beach, where the cannoli beckon with a warm, inviting charm. The crisp, golden shells embrace a creamy filling that's perfectly sweet and infused with just the right hint of vanilla. Each bite reveals a delicate balance of texture and flavor, making it truly irresistible. The authentic Italian flair and the cozy atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped into a beloved nonna's kitchen. If you’re on the hunt for an exceptional cannoli, then look no further—this place is a must-visit for any pastry lover!

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Mara's Italian Pastries

Nestled in the heart of North Beach, Mara's Italian Pastries offers a cannoli that’s simply irresistible. Biting into its crispy shell reveals a creamy ricotta filling, luxuriously sweetened with hints of vanilla and a dash of chocolate chips. The contrast between crunchy and silken is heavenly, creating an experience that dances on the palate. Each bite feels like a warm embrace from an Italian nona. The friendly atmosphere and charming decor make it an ideal spot to indulge your sweet tooth. If you’re on the hunt for a cannoli that whispers sweet nothings, look no further than Mara's!

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Liguria Bakery

Liguria Bakery is a delightful gem tucked away in North Beach, and their cannoli is an indulgent revelation! The crispy shell offers a satisfying crunch, while the creamy ricotta filling is perfectly sweetened, with delightful hints of vanilla and citrus. Each bite transports you straight to Sicily, evoking a rich sense of tradition and craftsmanship. As I savored my treat, I couldn't help but notice the cheery atmosphere and the fragrant aromas wafting through the air. For those seeking an authentic cannoli experience, Liguria Bakery is a must-visit destination that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings!

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Piccolo Forno

At Piccolo Forno, the cannoli took me on a delightful journey! The crispy shell, perfectly balanced with a rich, creamy filling, had notes of vanilla and a hint of chocolate that danced on my palate. Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures—crispy yet indulgently smooth. Decorated with a dusting of powdered sugar, they look as good as they taste. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it the perfect place to indulge. In the realm of North Beach cannolis, Piccolo Forno stands out as a must-try destination for any dessert lover!

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Limoncello

Limoncello in North Beach offers a delightful take on the classic cannoli that captivated my taste buds. The crispy shell was perfectly fried, providing a satisfying crunch, while the ricotta filling was rich and creamy, adorned with just the right hint of vanilla. Each bite felt like a sweet embrace, and the finishing dusting of powdered sugar made it even more indulgent. The ambiance was charming, reminiscent of a cozy Italian café, further amplifying the experience. If you're seeking a heavenly cannoli, Limoncello is a must-visit that should not be missed on your culinary adventure through North Beach!

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Il cilentano Pasta Bar

Indulging in the cannoli at Il Cilentano Pasta Bar was a delightful journey for my taste buds! Nestled in the vibrant heart of North Beach, this gem serves up a crisp shell that crumbles perfectly, giving way to a luxuriously creamy filling, speckled with chocolate chips. The subtle hint of citrus adds a refreshing twist that makes each bite a celebration. Paired with their charming ambiance, it’s a dessert that invites you to linger just a little longer. If you’re in the area, don’t miss out on this irresistible treat—it’s pure cannoli bliss that’s sure to impress!

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