Villabate Alba is the Most Incredible Italian Bakery I’ve Ever Seen (or Tasted)!

Delectable desert from Villabate Alba in Brooklyn, NY.

While in New York City with the family, and doing a few pizza reviews, I texted my world traveled, chef/consultant and pizza expert friend, Gregorio Fierro to ask if there were any must stop places in New York for pizza. He provided an impressive list of legendary and newly established pizzerias to try, several of which I did stop at, but he did say to make sure to stop at Villabate Alba in Brooklyn. His description of the place, and the joy in which he spoke about it made this a no-brainer to stop at.

Tomato focaccia bread “pizza” from Villabate Alba in Brooklyn, NY.

I have to say the place is as incredible as it is overwhelming for a first-timer. The pleasant aroma of the bakery is present even before you open the door and once you walk in, you’re surrounded by a myriad of pastries in every color, shape, and size imaginable. A gelato counter is to the left, and you walk through a loop passing every pastry, bread, cake, and more. It was truly sensory overload for my wife and I as we wanted to try so many different things. After our first pass, we paid the friendly lady at the register and were surprised at how low the prices were (for NYC). When we got outside, we began asking “did you see…” and saying “I wish we got…” so there was only one thing to do – GO BACK INSIDE! And we did – 2 more times!

We loaded up the car with everything from arancini to cheesecake to cannoli, but I noticed they had some form of pizza that looked like a focaccia bread with fresh diced tomatoes on top. It didn’t have an official name, but the young lady behind the described it as “like a pizza” so of course I added one to my order. It was light, thick, and fluffy. A super tender, soft, and moist crust with fresh tomatoes and olive oil. A wonderful treat to go with dinner, or as a stand alone snack as I tried it. Very nice flavor and a delicious “pizza.”

Italian and Sicilian breads from Villabate Alba in Brooklyn, NY.

All of the deserts and pastries were great, but my favorites were the cannoli, fresh bread, and arancini. If you’re in Brooklyn, I highly recommend Villabate Alba to you just as Chef Gregorio did to me.