Pastry shop

Traditional Sicilian pastry in Catania


Caffè Parisi, in Catania, is the ideal place to savour the finest sweets from the ancient tradition of Sicilian pastry. Sicily is not just the land of cannoli and cassatas, but it has an ancient history that dates back to Arab domination, concealing sweet origins entirely different, ranging from biscuits to sumptuous cakes, from fluffy granitas to frozen sighs. Enjoying a simple cannolo means immersing oneself in a journey back in time, walking through Arab and Greek settlements, Norman and Roman influences, not forgetting the enclosed convents, where, experts say, many of the now-famous recipes were born. Caffè Parisi also boasts an ancient history. It is among the most renowned pastry shops in Catania, and right here, you can appreciate the most authentic flavours of true Sicily.
Depart with our sweets

"Minnuzzi Ri Sant’Àjita"

On display, prominently showcased, Caffè Parisi not only offers traditional sweets but also some specialities typical of the local area, such as "I Minnuzzi Ri Sant’Àjita." This is a traditional Catania sweet, a classic created in honour of the feast of Saint Agatha, dedicated to the patron saint of the city. It is one of the most deeply felt religious celebrations for the people of Catania and among the most widely followed. It is celebrated every year from 3rd to 5th February, 12th February, and 17th August, with "I Minnuzzi" being prepared for the occasion.
The sweets are round-shaped, made with sponge cake soaked in rose water, filled with ricotta, chocolate chips, and candied fruit. Covered with white icing and finished with a candied cherry on top, they represent the heart of Catania's pastry tradition.

La Frutta Martorana  

Catania is not just Sant'Agata. On the occasion of the commemoration of the deceased, fruit marzipan is prepared. Another typical sweet made with fruit, vegetables, and even fish that are artistically and delectably reproduced with almond paste, the quintessential ingredient of local pastry.

The base of the recipe is simple: made exclusively from almond flour and sugar, the secret lies entirely in the dough, but few know how to cook it best like the pastry chefs at Caffè Parisi.

Tradition in every bite: the authentic cannolo

Among the most well-known specialities in pastry, Sicilian cannoli are even included in the list of traditional Italian agri-food products. Tradition dictates that they are prepared for Carnival, but like many typical sweets, today they are practically consumed all year round. According to experts, their origins are lost in the mists of time when Catania was invaded by the Saracens, and some emphasize that the sweet owes itself to the women of the harem of Caltanissetta, while the name is linked to the river reeds around which the wafers were wrapped. At Caffè Parisi, the Sicilian cannolo has preserved its original character, exquisite to taste, savour, and share for its flavour and goodness.

Ordina i nostri Minnuzzi Ri Sant’Àjita chiamando il 
+39 339 4208777

Order our "Minnuzzi Ri Sant’Àjita" by calling +39 339 4208777

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