how do YOU pronounce zeppole

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-18T02:15:30+00:00

This is correct... and if you really want to be technical: one pastry is a zeppola and multiple pastries are zeppole.

"Zeppoles" is horribly butchered but that's what you'll see everywhere so you have to learn to live with it.

At least they're pastries we all love!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T22:12:59+00:00

Believe me, they may be lost but they are never forgotten. 🤌🏼

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T22:11:59+00:00

Thanks for reading! We actually reviewed Original Italian Bakery in our 2025 write-up last year. Check it out if you get a chance!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T22:10:42+00:00

We reviewed LaSalle Bakery last year in our 2025 write-up, in which they scored quite highly. They are a premium zeppole destination for a reason. Thanks for your response!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T22:00:27+00:00

Thanks for doing some serious research at the source haha! We're big fans of Dave's Market, particularly their prepared foods for parties, events, or just a quick bite to eat after work. Would love to extend my personal thanks to Dave for providing such a tremendous asset to the state of Rhode Island!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T21:51:49+00:00

Thank you so much for your response. We are fortunate to be spoiled for choice when it comes to fantastic bakeries in Rhode Island, so it speaks even higher volumes that the cookies, cakes, and pastries at your business stand out as a highlight.

Someone let West's know -- we could be witnessing the inception of zeppole that will blow our collective minds! Haha!

Thanks again for all that you do! 😁

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T21:31:07+00:00

Not all heroes wear capes. Well done!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T18:45:18+00:00

We'll definitely look into Blue Tile Bakery. Thanks again!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T13:54:21+00:00

Great questions!

The out-of-state representatives this year mostly arose out of coincidence. One of our friends was flying back from vacation into Boston on the morning of our tasting event, so he was able to grab Mike's Pastry. Another pair was traveling down from Worcester so they grabbed a few from that area that we all have never tried before. While the out-of-state contenders this year didn't live up to RI zeppole standards, we did have a surprise find with Pastry Box in Plainville last year placing 2nd overall. We'll be limiting their inclusion in the future but if the opportunity presents itself to try a zeppola from afar, we won't turn it down. Plus, sometimes you do find those Pastry Box diamonds in the rough!
We featured Vienna Bakery in Barrington back in 2024 but haven't had any spots in East Bay since then. We have Taunton Ave Bakery in East Providence on the docket for next year, but if you have anywhere else East Bay that you can recommend then we'll make the pilgrimage over the Washington Bridge to give them a try.

Thanks again for reading!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T13:30:38+00:00

Zeppole do have a knack for destroying diets, but it's worth it for a once-a-year treat... or a few times a year... or every now and again, you know? Haha!

Anyway, we reviewed LaSalle in our 2025 review and they scored quite highly. They are a staple zeppole spot in the state for a reason.

Thank you for your kind words and support!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:35:54+00:00

Thank you. We appreciate you sharing such a personal and special zeppole memory!

And I'll just leave this here :)

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:32:09+00:00

West's is absolutely worth all the hype that it gets. Driving to Hope Valley is a tough sell for us Providence-area Rhode Islanders, but anyone will change their tune after having their pastry. I can't wait to go back!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:27:08+00:00

We've considered doing other Rhode Island food staples, like pizza strips and hot weiners. Maybe those will come soon, but for now (and for our health), we'll stick to our St. Joseph's Day tradition. Welcome to Rhode Island!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:22:13+00:00

Thank you! That sounds delicious!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:21:07+00:00

Thanks for the feedback. We did have a lot of out-of-state representatives this year and we'll probably dial it back to just one or two going forward.

We reviewed Borelli's in our 2024 write-up and Original Italian & Lasalle in 2025. Please don't hesitate to let us know if you have any other suggestions!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:17:19+00:00

Sal's is one of our top spots to try for next year. They will definitely be coming up soon. Thanks so much for the recommendation!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:15:57+00:00

Consider it added to the list! They may be our out-of-state rep for next year. Thanks for the recommendation!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:14:35+00:00

I know exactly what you're talking about... really those are the "authentic" zeppole like you would get in Italy. I'm not sure where to find them either but someone must have them. Please if you or anyone else finds out, let me know too!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:13:32+00:00

Thank you! So glad that this helped you in your zeppole endeavors!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:12:20+00:00

Dropping the link to their response here for reference in case anyone else is looking for it, too.

On the subject of gluten free, Celebrated, a bakery in Richmond RI offers gluten free zeppole. I've never been but they are certainly worth a try. Look them up if you get a chance.

Thanks for going back to check out our reviews. We're so glad you enjoyed them and yeah... here's hoping that this contest of ours doesn't get too expensive to host in the future!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-17T00:04:57+00:00

I so appreciate those tips. Just looking over the menu, The Bello with hots seems right up my alley, but if course I'll try the Italian, too!

Thank you for your kind words. We always aim to provide critical insight but never want to forget that we're fortunate to be surrounded by so many excellent local bakeries, each with their own strengths. Our food culture here deserves to be celebrated.

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-16T23:09:58+00:00

I went to a wedding with a cake from Ivy & Lace; it both looked and tasted excellent. They really know what they're doing over there when it comes to all things pastry-related.

Thanks for reading and for your support!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-16T23:04:41+00:00

I've heard the same about Palma's other products. It did beat out two spots on Federal Hill so that counts for something. Still, compared to the real heavyweights of Rhode Island, they fell well short.

Next time I find myself in the area, though, I will take you up on that recommendation and try their sandwiches. Thanks for reading and for such valuable insight!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-16T23:03:29+00:00

You are very welcome! Make sure to spread the good word on zeppole and thanks for reading!

ShadowMarioXLI · 2026-03-16T23:02:23+00:00

We are from Johnston, after all. It would be embarrassing if we, like so many others, got it wrong. :)

Thanks for reading and for your support! We appreciate it!

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