The story
On Hanover Street in Boston’s North End, Modern Pastry is a six-generation Italian pastry shop that, as food reviewer Only Scrans notes, serves “legendary cannoli and lobster tails that set the standard for Boston pastries.” The shop’s cannoli and lobster tail are celebrated benchmarks, but the counter also offers Amaretti di Italia and Italian Rainbow Cookies—each a testament to a craft honed over decades. With a 4.5-star rating and a family-friendly, takeout-friendly vibe, this historic bakery feels less like a tourist stop and more like a local ritual passed down through the years.
The setting itself—a simple storefront in the heart of the North End—hints at the tradition inside. Only Scrans emphasizes the generational continuity, and the menu reflects that depth without reinvention. Whether you’re after a crisp cannoli shell filled to order or a buttery lobster tail, Modern Pastry delivers the definitive Boston pastry experience.
Synthesised by AI from every creator’s review. First reviewed 2026.
Most-loved dishes
AI summary of what 4 dish mentions say about the food
Modern Pastry’s cannoli earns unanimous praise for its shatteringly crisp shell and luscious filling. Reviewers convey a warm, nostalgic vibe, celebrating this classic as the definitive must-order.
“The shell shatters. The ricotta is cold and sweet, but not stupidly sweet. It is perfection. This is one of the best pastries I've ever put in my mouth. They fill them when you order, so the shell stays crisp.”
What creators say
1 creator has covered Modern Pastry. Most active: Only Scrans
A six-generation Italian pastry shop in the North End serving legendary cannoli and lobster tails that set the standard for Boston pastries.
Dishes mentioned
Cannoli
The shell shatters. The ricotta is cold and sweet, but not stupidly sweet. It is perfection. This is one of the best pastries I've ever put in my mouth. They fill them when you order, so the shell stays crisp.
Lobster Tail
Oh my god. The flakiness of the pastry — look at the flakes, they're just flaking up. This pastry pretending to be seafood is unbelievable. It's not just a normal pastry. This is elite. Top, top, top tier.
Amaretti di Italia
This little cookie — almond, almost marzipan. There's a little pistachio one as well. Delicious.
Italian Rainbow Cookies
Little cute Italian rainbow cookies. Oh, they're delicious.
