Philadelphia’s Finest Traditional Italian Pastries

At the tender ages of 12 and 11, Michele and Giovanni Varallo woke early in the morning to apprentice as bakers, ice cream makers and candy makers at Antonio Scandone’s Bakery in Montella Avellino, Italy. They apprenticed for several years until their father, Berardino, moved his family to the United States to secure a more abundant future for his children. That was in 1970, when the boys were only 14 and 15 years old. Once in the United States, they worked at the craft they had known, and experimented with recipes they had learned in their homeland.

In 1981, the brothers realized their dream and opened their own business- Varallo Brothers Bakery (Pasticceria). They opened their bakery at Tenth and Morris Streets in Philadelphia, and they are still there today. Varallo Brothers soon became a well known Philadelphia Pasticceria. They were repeatedly awarded "Best of Philly" for their pastries and homemade gelato. They extended their business when they opened Varallo's Cafe in 1987.

Today, the family bakes together and has pride in their achievements. Mike’s youngest brother, Vincenzo, came into the Pasticceria and helps his family produce the best traditional Italian pastries in the Philadelphia area. Varallo Brothers has become a staple for Philadelphians and anyone looking for traditional Italian cookies and other delicious items.

John developed a deep love for cooking. He left Michele and Rosa in 1991 to run the Pasticceria by themselves, as he began his new career as a successful restaurateur. When John left the bakery, Berardino and Giovanna, Rose and Michele's first-born children, joined their parents in running the Pasticceria. In 1995, Carmine and Michele Jr. came into the business, followed by their younger brother, Mario, in 1997.