TLDR
Historic 1892 Little Italy landmark famous for oversized lobster tails and traditional Italian pastries. A classic, albeit bustling, tourist-friendly destination for iconic cannoli and gelato.
Instagram Posts References
Ferrara Bakery & Cafe, established in 1892, is presented as a historic and beloved institution in Little Italy, contributing to the festive spirit of San Gennaro. The video captures the bakery's vibrant presence with a live performer, an Italian flag, and large decorative ice cream cones, signifying its role as a hub for Italian pastries, desserts, and espresso during the festival.
Details
Established in 1892, this historic Little Italy institution remains a beloved destination for those seeking traditional Italian pastries and desserts [1]. While some patrons note its status as a popular tourist-friendly spot, many visitors consider it a rare exception that delivers excellent quality despite the crowds [2], [3]. Signature offerings like the oversized lobster tail draw consistent praise for their crispiness and size, cementing the bakery's reputation as a staple of the neighborhood [4].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on classic Italian desserts, including highly recommended items like cannoli, pistachio gelato, and pasticciotti [6], [7]. While the lobster tail is frequently praised for its impressive size and crisp texture [4], the rainbow cookies have received criticism for being dry and artificial in recent reviews [8].
Customer Sentiment
Sentiment is generally positive, with many visitors viewing the establishment as a reliable, high-quality bakery despite its reputation as a tourist-frequented destination [2]. While long-term fans maintain a strong preference for the shop, some guests find the pricing to be on the higher side [5].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About FERRARA'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Nyc Little Italy Restaurant And Pastry Shop
"Suggested as a place for pastries."
PositiveFrom post: Nyc Little Italy Restaurant And Pastry Shop
"Recommended for cannoli."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Dad Daughter Food Recommendations In
"The go-to bakery in Little Italy, especially for pistachio gelato and pasticciotti."
PositiveFrom post: Lower Manhattan Cheesecake Tasteoff By A Local
"The user intends to use Ferrara for their upcoming wedding."
PositiveFrom post: Lower Manhattan Cheesecake Tasteoff By A Local
"The user notes that Ferrara is pretty good, though ranks it behind Veniero's."
PositiveFrom post: Lower Manhattan Cheesecake Tasteoff By A Local
"The author shares their perspective from the original taste-test, ranking Ferrara highly alongside Veniero's."
PositiveFrom post: Anyone Know Where I Can Get An Affogato Like This
"Described as a tourist-friendly spot that offers a fun version of an affogato."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find Good Italian Bakery Cookies In
"The commenter expresses a strong, long-term preference for Ferrara."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find Good Italian Bakery Cookies In
"The commenter notes that Ferrara is known for excellent neapolitans but finds it to be overpriced."
NeutralFrom post: Rainbow Cookie Crawl 14 Bakeries Queens Manhattan
"Ferrara's rainbow cookie was described as incredibly artificial and dry, tasting fake compared to others. The chocolate consistency was good, providing a snap, but the jam added little flavor."
NegativeFrom post: Help Me Identify A Little Italy Coffeeshop I Went
"This commenter agrees Ferrara Bakery & Cafe is a possibility, noting its long history and late hours. They also mention it can be a tourist trap but enjoyable at times."
NeutralFrom post: Help Me Identify A Little Italy Coffeeshop I Went
"This commenter suggests Ferrara Bakery & Cafe as the potential coffeeshop based on its opening year (1892) and continued operation."
NeutralFrom post: 60 Hours In Nyc V 012026
"This commenter was glad the lobster tail at Ferrara didn't disappoint and remained crispy."
PositiveFrom post: 60 Hours In Nyc V 012026
"The author received a recommendation for the lobster tail at Ferrara and found it to be a great recommendation. Despite not eating it immediately, it remained crispy and was impressively large."
PositiveFrom post: Iso Single Slice Of Cannoli Cake
"This commenter suggested Ferrara Bakery & Cafe as a place that might have cannoli cake."
NeutralFrom post: Ideas For Little Item From Ny To Add To My Xmas
"Suggested Ferrara Bakery for rainbow cookies that might fit in a small box due to their size."
PositiveFrom post: Unpopular Opinions Fall 2025 Edition
"Ferrara Cafe is listed as a recommended restaurant in the Little Italy area."
PositiveFrom post: The Feast Of San Gennaro Starts Today In Little
"The commenter found Ferraras to be a good choice during the San Gennaro Feast, noting it was 'right on' despite the event's crowds and high prices."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Cannoli Recommendations Had An
"Responds to criticism by stating that while Ferrara is a tourist trap, it's still excellent and falls into a rare category of good tourist spots."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Cannoli Recommendations Had An
"Agrees with the sentiment that Ferrara has been a tourist trap for 40+ years."
Neutral