The San Gennaro Feast in New York City’s Little Italy has been a tradition for almost a century, attracting crowds with food, music, and celebrations every September. Established by immigrants in 1926 longing for the tastes and atmosphere of Naples, the festival has grown into a 10-day extravaganza of Italian cuisine known for its red sauce and lively atmosphere. Over the years, only a few vendors have withstood the test of time and become staples of the feast.
One of the festival’s iconic vendors is Ferrara Bakery, a family-owned business that has been a part of the event since its inception. Offering an array of pastries and baked goods, the bakery has evolved over the years to cater to changing tastes and preferences. Despite the changing landscape of the feast, Ferrara Bakery remains a beloved institution in the neighborhood, serving up traditional Italian treats to locals and visitors alike.
E. Rossi and Co. is another long-standing vendor at the San Gennaro Feast, known for its custom and novelty shirts that have become a fashion trend in recent years. The business, which started as a record store in 1910, has evolved over the years to cater to the changing demands of festival-goers. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the proprietor, Ernie Rossi, is determined to keep the business running for as long as possible.
Lucy’s Sausage is a family business that has been a fixture at Italian festivals in the tristate area, including San Gennaro, for over 50 years. Known for its famous sausage and peppers, the operation has grown from humble beginnings to become a popular destination for festival attendees. With a commitment to preserving traditions and serving generations of customers, Lucy’s Sausage continues to be a beloved vendor at the feast.
Caffé Palermo, owned by John “Baby John” DeLutro, is known as the “Cannoli King” and has been a staple of the San Gennaro Feast for over five decades. Building his business from scratch with a $50 investment and a passion for pastries, DeLutro has turned Caffé Palermo into a cannoli empire with nationwide shipping and collaborations with notable figures like Tony Bennett. Despite facing challenges, DeLutro remains dedicated to his business and the legacy of his family.
The San Gennaro Feast is a celebration of Italian culture and heritage, with vendors like Ferrara Bakery, E. Rossi and Co., Lucy’s Sausage, and Caffé Palermo embodying the spirit of the festival. Despite the changing times and evolving trends, these vendors have remained steadfast in their commitment to serving authentic Italian cuisine and preserving traditions. The festival continues to attract crowds each year, providing a taste of Italy in the heart of New York City’s Little Italy.
