Where To Find The Best Cannoli In Sicily (Map Included!)

a plate of 3 Sicilian cannolis in different flavor variations

Wondering where to find the best cannoli in Sicily?

Then you’re in the right place!

Sicily is still somewhat of a hidden gem in Italy, often overlooked for other popular seaside places like the Amalfi Coast, Capri, or Cinque Terre.

Because it’s still not overcrowded—not even in the peak summer season—you can experience true and authentic Italy. That also means that you will eat really good food there!

I recently did a food-focused road trip through Sicily. As I ate my way around the island, I quickly learned that it isn’t just the pasta and pizza that are delicious, but the cannolis.

Sicily is famous for its cannoli, a sweet pastry filled with ricotta, so you’ll want to try this while visiting.

Keep reading to discover where to find the best cannoli in Sicily—map included. Add at least a few of these places to your itinerary for a truly tasty trip!

Rows of Sicilian cannoli filled with ricotta cream and topped with chocolate chips, displayed in a bakery setting.
In my opinion, you can never eat enough cannolis when in Sicily. Photo: ChiccoDodiFC via Depositphotos.

History Of Cannoli

The history of the cannoli is interesting, especially if you love legends. There are two theories of the origin of cannoli and why it has a phallic shape.

The first dates back to the Middle Ages, specifically the 10th and 11th centuries when Sicily was under Arab rule. You will notice this in the architecture, especially in Palermo.

According to legend, the cannoli was invented in the Moorish harem of Qalc’at al-Nissa—which is today’s province of Caltanissetta, meaning “castle of women”.

To pass the time while their beloved emir was not there, his women spent their time cooking and baking, especially making sweet treats. The creation of the very first cannoli was to honor the virility of their emir.

The second legend follows Sicily’s conversion to Catholicism in the 11th century, with the production of cannoli becoming synonymous with Sicily’s monasteries and convents.

Cannoli were prepared by nuns for religious festivals that date back to Ancient Greece. They were specifically made during Carnival (especially in Palermo and Messina areas), a pre-Lenten celebration that generally falls at the end of February and the beginning of March.

Celebrated by practicing the rites of the Greek god of ecstasy and wine, Dionysus, Carnival marked the end of the old year and the beginning of the new.

In Southern Italy and Sicily during these wild days before Ash Wednesday, masques were worn to hide peoples’ identities and allow them the freedom to do whatever was pleasurable. Cannoli were associated with celebrating fertility and they helped to foster a connection with the divine.

Cannoli was introduced to the US during the Great Arrival that began in the 1880s, when millions of Italians immigrated to the United States, mainly from southern Italy and Sicily.

They even inspired one of the most memorable Hollywood movie quotes of all time from The Godfather: “Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.”

Sicilian cannoli can come in many variations. Photo: marmo81 via Depositphotos.

Cultural Significance Of Cannoli

Cannoli are not only a dessert, but a symbol of Sicily, deeply embodied in its tradition, culture, and history.

As you’ve seen, even their legend of origin is turbulent and represents the history of Sicily that started out as a Greek polis and was then ruled by Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards to finally be reunited with the rest of Italy in the 19th century under Garibaldi.

Cannoli are connected and served during special occasions and religious festivals in Sicily, such as Carnival and Saint Joseph’s Day. They are integral to Sicilian celebrations and bring people together.

Where To Find The Best Cannoli In Sicily

I did a road trip through Sicily that took me to well-known places like Taormina and Palermo as well as hidden gems like Ragusa and San Vito Lo Capo.

Needless to say, I ate cannoli almost daily, so here are my top recommendations on where to find the best cannoli in Sicily.

Best Cannoli In Palermo

A city where cannoli have been made since the 11th century, Palermo is an obvious choice when it comes to where to find the best cannoli in Sicily. Here are the top places in Palermo that serve the best cannoli:

1. I Segreti del Chiostro

Via Discesa dei Giudici 33, 90133, Palermo, Siciliy

This pastry shop has a great story and mission. Remember how one of the legends says that the nuns made cannoli for the Carnival?

Until the late 1980s, only two monastery dolcerias were still actively baking in Palermo: the monastery of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria and the monastery of Sant’Andrea delle Vergini. 

Sadly, the last nuns left in 2014 and this tradition ceased to exist. Fortunately, Maria Oliveri, an expert in cultural heritage studies, decided to collect the recipes and publish them.

She later opened her own dolceria, I Segreti del Chiostro, within the monastery of Santa Caterina. For me, there’s no better place that connects culture, history, tradition, and gastronomy than I Segreti del Chiostro.

By the way, Santa Caterina Monastery is gorgeous and a must-visit in Palermo!

inside of Santa Caterina Church which is also home to the Segreti del Chiostro cannoli shop
Inside Santa Caterina Church, you’ll find I Segreti del Chiostro dolceria, one of the best places to get cannoli in Sicily. Photo via Magdalena Jelec.

2. Cannoli & Co

Via Maqueda 266 – 268, 90133, Palermo, Sicily

Maybe not the most creative name, but the concept of this pastry shop is. Each cannoli is filled once ordered for maximum freshness. It’s done with the traditional recipe, but there are many options for how you can decorate it.

The best part? It’s totally up to you, so let your creativity run wild!

3. Pasticceria Cappello

Via Colonna Rotta, 68, Palermo, Sicily and Via Nicolò Garzilli, 19, Palermo, Sicily

Pasticceria Capello is a family-owned business that started in the post-World War II era. Today, its founder Salvatore is known as the Master Chocolatier and Master Pastry Chef.

He has been on TV several times and is famous not only in Sicily but throughout Italy, and Pasticceria Capello is included in the list of historic Italian pastry shops.

His son Giovanni Junior takes part in international competitions, so you’re guaranteed a very good cannoli.

pastry chef in Sicily putting fresh cannolis on a tray
When visiting Sicily, ordering at least a few cannolis is a must! Photo: [email protected] via Depositphotos.

Best Cannoli In Taormina

Taormina is the most popular place in Sicily, and tourists have been coming since the 19th century. If you’re a White Lotus fan, you will recognize it from the many scenes filmed there—especially at San Domenico Palace, a 5-star luxury hotel currently owned by Four Seasons.

Taormina is a culturally rich town, so it’s not surprising that some of the best cannoli in Sicily exist there, especially at the following pasticcerias.

4. La Pignolata Guinness Cannoli

Viale Apollo Arcageta 15 Taormina, 98039, Taormina, Sicily

La Pignolata Guinness Cannoli is a family-run cannoli shop serving cannolis of different sizes. Interestingly, the word “Guinness” is in their name because they hold a Guinness World Record for creating the largest Sicilian dough ball back in the ‘90s! While they offer a few flavor options, the pistachio cannoli is a must—and also don’t miss sampling their pistachio Nutella.

woman posing in front of a giant cannoli sign in Sicily
“Leave the gun. Take the cannoli”. Photo taken in Taormina by Magdalena Jelec.

5. Laboratorio Pasticceria Roberto

Corso Umberto I, 87, 98039, Taormina, Sicily

The concept of the family-run Laboratorio Pasticceria Roberto is similar to Cannoli & Co in Palermo, with each cannoli made fresh in front of the customer using the traditional family recipe. It’s recommended to have the cannoli shell rolled in pistachio for extra crunch and to enjoy your cannoli on their outdoor patio.

6. Don Diego Gelateria Caffetteria

Via Luigi Pirandello 1, 98039, Taormina, Sicily

Don Diego Gelateria Caffetteria is another great choice for cannoli in Taormina. Featuring a beautiful outdoor seating area, you can have your cannoli and do some people-watching. The customer service is great, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the cannoli are so good that you’ll want to order another one and linger.

Best Cannoli In Catania

Catania is where you’ll most likely land if you’re visiting Sicily. While not my favorite place on the island, it is inevitable you’ll spend at least one day sightseeing in the city center or using it as a base for fun day trips like Mount Etna.

There’s even a street called Via Etnea because you can see Etna from the street, especially on a clear day.

Because of its popularity, it’s no surprise that Catania has a lot to offer to travelers, especially when it comes to cuisine. Some of the best cannoli in Sicily are right here in Catania.

To help you find it, here are the top places in Catania that serve the best cannoli:

7. Pasticceria Savia

Via Etnea, 300/302/304 Via Umberto, 2/4/6, 95131 Catania, Sicily

This cannoli and pastry shop in Catania has been run by the same family since 1897 when it was founded by married couple Angelo and Elisabetta Savia. I love supporting family-run businesses, and the fact that it’s been open for over 120 years is a testament to the delicious taste of their treats.

traditional Sicilian cannoli with pistachio
Traditional Sicilian cannoli with ricotta cheese and pistachio. Photo via Anna Guerrero for Pexels.

8. Pasticceria Di Dio

Via Luigi Sturzo 69/71, 95131 Catania, Sicily

Pasticceria Di Dio is always busy and loved by the locals, so you know it’s good. Everything is freshly prepared and there are many choices. My personal favorite is the pistachio cannoli paired with Italian espresso.

9. Pasticceria Luigi Ficarra

Via Umberto 69/71, 95129 Catania, Sicily

This traditional Sicilian pastry shop will fill your cannoli on the spot for guaranteed freshness. The family who run the place are incredibly warm and friendly, and their attention to detail means you’ll have a memorable experience. Thanks to its equally as delicious coffee, it’s a great spot for an authentic Sicilian breakfast, savory lunch (the arancini here is amazing), or afternoon treat.

woman eating traditional cannoli in Sicily on a black plate dusted with powdered sugar
Traditional Sicilian breakfast. Photo via Valeria Boltneva for Pexels.

Best Cannoli In Noto

Noto is somewhat of a hidden gem in Sicily, though it is becoming more popular because White Lotus was filmed here too.

You don’t need more than a few hours in Noto, but make sure to stop for a coffee and cannoli break to truly enjoy what this little town has to offer. Here are the top places in Noto that serve the best cannoli:

10. Caffè Sicilia

Corso Vittorio Emanuele 125, 96017, Noto, Sicily

Caffè Sicilia is not only one of the best pastry shops in Noto but on the entire island of Sicily! The shop has been run by the same family since 1892. Its current owner, Corrado Assenza, studied agriculture in Bologna and, after finishing his studies, returned to Noto to work in the family business. Something unique about this place is that Assenza uses scientific research to create new flavor combinations and processes. Honestly, I’m still dreaming of their cannoli!

11. Caffè Costanzo

Via Silvio Spaventa, 7/9, 96017, Noto, Sicily

While on the pricier side, Caffè Costanzo is a great dolceria with a lovely setting just off the Main Street in Noto. There is plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the atmosphere and views while digging into a traditional Sicilian cannoli or some gelato. I recommend the prosecco and almond flavor!

12. Pasticceria Fico D’India Orazio

Via Napoli 16, 96017, Noto, Sicily

Visiting Sicily on a budget? Not only are the cannoli and pastries fresh and delicious at this Sicilian pasticceria, but also cheap. It’s a perfect place for breakfast because the pastries are really big and fulfilling. Don’t be surprised if you’re surrounded by locals as this is one of their favorite places in town.

A beautiful view of the Noto Cathedral's stunning baroque façade in Sicily. The sun casts a warm glow on the light-colored limestone, highlighting the intricate architectural details and the grand staircase leading up to the entrance.
Along with delicious cannoli, Noto is also known for the beautiful Noto Cathedral. Photo via Magdalena Jelec.

Best Cannoli In Erice

Erice is a beautiful hilltop town in the Trapani region on Sicily’s west coast. The medieval heritage can be felt through the surrounding walls, labyrinthine streets, cobbled alleys, and archways, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Erice has a very long history that started in the pre-Greek era. Everyone came here at some point: Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards. Each shaped the history and culture of Erice, including the food, helping to make it one of the best places in Sicily to find authentic traditional cannoli.

Here are the top places in Erice to order Sicilian cannoli:

13. Pasticceria Maria Grammatico

Via Vittorio Emanuele 14, 91016, Erice, Sicily

Pasticceria Maria Grammatico is one of Sicily’s most famous pastry shops, and it also has an interesting backstory. Maria Grammatico and her sister were orphaned by their father and sent to live at San Carlo Convent. She spent 15 years there, during which she mastered the art of convent pastry making. Maria decided to open a small shop to revive the knowledge she received.

three cannolis on a clear plate from a pasticceria in Sicily
Traditional cannoli. Photo via hi! for Pexels.

14. Antica Pasticceria del Convento

Via Guarnotti, 91016, Erice, Sicily

Antica Pasticceria del Convento was opened by Maria’s sister, Angela. After her passing, Angela’s daughter, Giacoma Pirro, inherited it, and she is the one who runs it today—still using the techniques from the convent. If Pasticceria Maria is busy—which is often the case—consider popping into this pastry shop instead.

15. Pasticceria San Carlo

Via Guarnotta, Erice, Sicily

When nonna (grandma) is the main chef, you know the place will be great! Pasticceria San Carlo is a small family-run business that makes its pastries using 100-year-old recipes. Everything is done by hand, with freshness and authenticity guaranteed. Along with cannoli, they are known for making some of Erice’s best le genovesi—a traditional Sicilian pastry featuring soft, buttery dough that is lightly dusted with powdered sugar and filled with rich custard cream or ricotta.

Sicilian cannolis with dried fruit on a bakery rack
Consider ordering a cannoli with dried fruit for a delicious twist. Photo: Anaisia29 via Depositphotos.

Map Of Sicily’s Best Pasticcerias

To help you easily find the above-mentioned pasticcerias, here is a Google map with each location pre-plotted:

Sicilian Cannoli FAQ 

When it comes to Sicilian cannoli, these are the most common questions.

Q) What part of Italy has the best cannoli? 

While you can find cannoli throughout Italy, they originate from Sicily, with many pasticcerias still making them using the traditional recipe introduced by nuns in the 11th century. Therefore, you will find the best cannoli in Sicily.

Q) What is the cannoli capital of Italy?

Even though one of the legends places the origin of cannoli in Caltanissetta, Palermo is actually most often considered to be the origin place of cannoli and therefore is today the cannoli capital of Italy.

Q) What is an interesting fact about cannoli?

Italy celebrates “Cannoli Day” on June 16th. On this day, people indulge in the sweet treat and participate in various events and competitions related to cannoli.

Q) What is an authentic cannoli made of?

An authentic cannoli is made of ricotta (sheep) cheese.

Q) What is the difference between Italian and American cannoli?

For the cannoli cream, the biggest distinction between the Sicilian and Italian American recipes is the type of cheese: sheep milk ricotta versus cow milk ricotta. In some cases, Italian Americans supplement the ricotta with mascarpone cheese and sometimes even whipped cow milk cream.

Q) What is the difference between Sicilian cannoli vs Venetian cannoli?

The main difference between Sicilian cannoli and Venetian cannoli is that Sicilian cannoli typically have a crispier, fried pastry shell and are filled with a sweeter ricotta cheese filling. On the other hand, Venetian cannoli often have a flakier puff pastry shell and are filled with a custard-like cream, sometimes flavored with vanilla or chocolate, instead of ricotta cheese. Essentially, the Venetian version is considered a lighter variation of the classic Sicilian cannoli.

Q) When is the best time to have cannoli?

While you can enjoy cannoli in Sicily year-round, they’re best eaten in autumn and spring when sheep produce the highest quality milk, which leads to fresher ricotta.

A large plate of chocolate cherry cannoli, featuring crisp shells filled with chocolate cream and adorned with candied cherries on top.
Chocolate cherry cannolis – yum! Photo: Malgorzata_Kistryn via Depositphotos.

Final Thoughts On Where To Find The Best Cannoli In Sicily

As we’ve seen, cannoli are not only culturally important to Sicily, they also spread throughout Italy and overseas, primarily in the US.

While you can find good cannoli pretty much anywhere in Sicily, the best cannoli pastry shops are in Palermo, Taormina, Noto, Catania, and Erice.

Most of the pastries included here are family-run shops with a long history of making cannoli by authentic and original recipes just like those used by nuns in monasteries. By visiting them, not only will you support the local business but you will also eat the best cannoli you can find in Sicily.

Even if you don’t visit all these towns and pastries, make sure to include at least one when visiting Sicily. Your taste buds will thank you!

Further reading:

How To Make Tiramisu Like An Italian

Aperitivo: An Enviable Italian Ritual

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Of Modena: The Ultimate Guide

Sciacchetrà Wine: A Sweet Tradition In Cinque Terre, Italy

Your Ultimate Guide To Olive Oil Tasting & Pairing

Where is your favorite place to eat cannoli in Sicily?

Magdalena Jelec

Magdalena is a Full Time Travel Blogger based in London, but originally from Croatia. She came to London in 2018 to pursue her dreams, the biggest to travel the world. As an ex-History & Literature Teacher, Magdalena is focused on Culture Travel and she writes extensively about it on her main site Megi Vorera. She loves visiting historical and cultural places, meeting with locals and trying the local food when travelling and she shares about these experiences with her audience.

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