The next place on my 12 Best Bakeries In NYC Challenge off Gothamist’s list is F Monteleone Bakery in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn.

This classic, family run Italian bakery has just about every baked good you would expect, and some you may not even know about. I’m not very good when there’s too much variety, I get pretty overwhelmed. And there is a lot of variety here.

From cookies, to classic Italian treats like cannoli and gelato, to cakes and tarts, this bakery has it all. So, I took a deep breath, asked for a couple suggestions, and went with some classics from a few different categories.

First, I had to go for a cannoli. The outside tube had a slight crispness to it and almost a savory quality. Inside, the filling was smooth and creamy with just the right amount of sweetness.

Then, I tried their raspberry tartlet. This little tart had a buttery, cookie like crust with a creamy and subtly sweet custard. The raspberries add a bit of tartness and freshness to the dessert. 

Finally, I had a Pignoli. This was probably my favorite out of the three. The cookie exudes an almond flavor, crisp around the edges and soft and chewy on the inside, and toped with pine nuts. 

The Shorts:
Name: F Monteleone Bakery
Location: 355 Court Street, Brooklyn
The Long and Short: Would I go back? If I’m in the neighborhood, without a doubt.
Would I recommend it? Yes. It’s a great classic Italian bakery with really affordable treats.