They are experts at the cappuccino. Order one, and they'll have it on the table within a couple of minutes: hot, frothy, and decoratively doused with cocoa to create a veritable artistic masterpiece. You won't need sugar. As you drink this down, the cocoa runs down the inside of the cup in streaks. Can you resist the urge to forgo any sense of decorum, and lick the inner rim like a child? Heaven on earth for $3.15 per cup.

“Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.” This world The wonderful art of Italian pastry is practiced to perfection at Mike's, a requisite stop for anyone after dinner, or perhaps for dinner, in the North End. Mike's is world famous for their famous sweet creations and ships all over the country. What are you in the mood for? Whether you're hankering for cannolis, cookies, or cakes, this is the place to get 'em. Most pastries $1-4. Biscotti $6-10/lb.

Located smack dab in the heart of the North End on Hanover Street, Modern Pastry is a legendary staple of the notorious Italian District. Here you will find an eye-full of sugary sweetness from chocolate-covered almond biscotti to overflowing ricotta cannolis, gelato, and cappuccino. This family operated business is full of the diverse citizens of Boston on given day, which means, be prepared to wait in line. Modern fulfills specialty orders and ships nation-wide.

What can you say about a bakery that is open 24 hours a day except perfecto! Bovo's keeps the sweet treats cranking all day and night as well as yummy sandwiches and strombolis coming for the after bar crowd and North End denizens all night. This is a North End must!

This is not a fancy place, and as the name suggests, is all about getting together with your buddies and cheering on your soccer team, and not so much the coffee and pastry. Futbol on the big TVs, sit back and relax with your coffee while catching the game. You might end up here when the other bakeries are closed, and the desserts aren't bad. Cash only.

They have their cakes flown in from Italy every week, and have great sfogliatella. In the summer, they open the windows for a charming view of the street.