Whether you’re looking for a quick sweet treat or for an extravagant wedding cake, Gerardo’s has it all. Gerardo’s Italian Bakery, located in West Boylston, Shrewsbury and Marlborough, Massachusetts, is a destination full of outstanding Italian pastries and confections. Established as a New England staple, the bakery is known for its Italian cookies, cakes and pastries.
According to their website, the bakery was founded in 1993 by Gerardo Sarli. The bakery is the product of a lifelong dream and passion for baking. Sarli has been in the business of making for more than 30 years, and he learned his skills as a student of master bakers. From the beginning, Gerardo’s mission was to “focus on product quality and customer satisfaction.”
Known for their stunning wedding cakes, Gerardo’s earned the title of “Best in New England” from brides in The Knot magazine for four consecutive years (2007–2010). Offering items priced from $2.25 (Cannoli) to $48.00 (Red Velvet Specialty Cake), the bakery remains a favorite destination for a speedy confection or a special occasion.
When I first entered Gerardo’s West Boylston location, I was stunned at the beautiful interior as well as the delicious desserts. Upon entering the bakery, customers are greeted with a showcasing of a variety of Italian desserts. The display cases are filled with delicious products, including mini cannolis, eclairs, cookies, cheesecakes and cakes. The bakery also offers American pastries and pies, catering to diverse customers.
While looking at the medley of sweets, my eyes were focused on the dozens of cannolis they had to offer. I was greeted by friendly staff who were happy to help me with my order. Though it was hard to choose from their variety of options, I went with the chocolate and oreo cannolis.
The chocolate cannolis had a crispy pastry shell with a rich, chocolate, creamy cheese filling. The Oreo cannoli had everything the chocolate cannoli had, but it had delicious crumbles of oreo in the filling. These were some of the best cannolis I have ever eaten. I would definitely come back just to try the other types of cannolis, as well as the other types of pastries they have to offer.
Besides the sweet, delicious desserts Gerardo’s has to offer, they also sell savory items such as pizza dough, marinara sauce and homemade meatballs. As if that wasn’t enough, if you’re looking for a treat for your k-9 (canine) friend, Gerardo’s sells “k-9 cupcakes.” The bakery also provides gluten-free options, such as cannolis, cupcakes, brownies, cream rolls and almond paste cookies, for those with dietary restrictions. Gerardo’s additionally offers delivery services through Grubhub and DoorDash, bringing their dessert right to your doorstep.
Gerardo’s Italian Bakery offers a wide variety of pastries and cakes that have earned the admiration of both locals and visitors. Whether you’re seeking a beautiful wedding cake or a simple cannoli, Gerardo’s is the place to go.