This is Mike's signature — the cannoli that built the reputation. The shell is thick and crispy, not delicate, and filled to order with a rich, creamy ricotta filling studded with chocolate chips. The filling is sweet and the shell provides textural contrast. The cannoli is substantial and rich — reviewers note it's large and very decadent. This is the version everyone tries when visiting Mike's.
Tips from diners
This is the cannoli to try — it's what Mike's is famous for and remains the most popular order.
Mike's cannoli come in that iconic white box with blue lettering — perfect for bringing home as a gift or memento.
Alongside cannoli, Mike's is known for lobster tail pastries — despite the name, they contain no seafood. They're puff pastry shells filled with whipped cream and dusted with powdered sugar. The pastry is light and crispy, the filling is airy, and they're less heavy than cannoli. They're a popular grab-and-go item and nearly as famous as the cannoli.
Tips from diners
Get both a cannoli and a lobster tail — they're different enough that having both gives you variety without major commitment.
The pistachio cannoli offers intense pistachio flavor that contrasts sharply with the sweet ricotta filling. The shell is the same quality as the chocolate chip version — thick and crispy with a satisfying crunch. Reviewers call it amazing, with the pistachio taste providing a stark flavor contrast to the sweet filling. It's one of the standout specialty flavors.
Tips from diners
The pistachio is worth trying as a variation — the nuttiness stands out next to the standard chocolate version.
The limoncello flavor brings brightness to the ricotta — the ricotta is infused with the Italian lemon liqueur and brightened with fresh lemon zest. It's less heavy than plain ricotta cannoli while still being creamy. The lemon flavor doesn't overpower; it's a subtle enhancement. It's one of the more interesting flavor variations.
Tips from diners
The limoncello is a refreshing option — if you want something lighter or brighter than chocolate, try this.
For a lighter alternative to the ricotta-based versions, Mike's offers a chocolate mousse cannoli. The mousse is creamy and less sweet than ricotta, with an airy texture. The contrast between the crispy shell and the mousse filling is pleasant. It's a different experience from the traditional versions but equally satisfying.
Tips from diners
Buy an assortment of 3-4 different flavors and share — you get to taste the range without committing to one.
Mike's Pastry was founded in 1946 by Michael Mercogliano in Boston's North End. The shop has become famous for its wide range of cannoli flavors — nearly 20 varieties from traditional ricotta and chocolate chip to creative options like limoncello, Oreo, and pistachio. The iconic white box with bright blue lettering is instantly recognizable throughout Boston, often seen being carried by pedestrians as they enjoy their pastries on the go. The shop serves both locals and tourists, though tourists comprise much of the customer base. The ricotta filling is rich and creamy.
Mike's is on almost every Boston tourist list — expect lines and crowds, especially evenings and weekends. Go early in the day if you prefer less chaos.
Mike's and Modern Pastry are across the street from each other — there's a famous rivalry about which has the best cannoli. Try Mike's for the wide flavor variety and the iconic experience.
It's takeaway only — there's no seating. Grab your pastry in the white box and find a seat on a bench nearby or take it with you.
Page last updated: