Villani's Bakery

Sfogliatelle hold candied-orange ricotta inside crisp pastry layers, while lobster tails use diplomat cream. Pistachio croissants combine house-made dough with pistachio buttercream and toasted nuts. The selection also includes bialys and chocolate-swirled babka, giving the counter a broader range than cakes and Italian sweets alone.

Paul and Amanda Villani first built their business in Concord after facing difficulties finding a Charlotte rental. The move to Pecan Avenue brought their family recipes into a neighborhood shop with its own parking and outdoor seating. Their coffee partnership with Rock Hill Coffee Roasters supplies a custom blend and nitro coffee to pair with the baking.

Small cookies and cannoli can make an inexpensive stop, while filled croissants, cake slices and drinks create a more moderately priced order. Celebration cakes are a larger purchase and need advance arrangements; the bakery requests at least a week for custom orders. Daily items sell while supplies last, so call about a particular pastry before planning a trip around it.