That first taste of torroncino a cinnamon-almond gelato. It was 1905. Angelo Brocato had just opened his first ice cream parlor in New Orleans. He’d learned his craft in Palermo Sicily. Now he was bringing the taste of home to the French Quarter.
Angelo Brocato’s wasn’t just an ice cream parlor. It was a piece of Sicilian history transplanted to New Orleans. It became a beloved New Orleans institution. Angelo made gelato and other treats. His lemon ice quickly became legendary. People dipped their warm bread in it for breakfast.
The shop moved a few times. The original location on Ursulines Street is now home to a different business. In 1921 a larger space was found. That shop was elegantly designed. It mirrored the stylish parlors of Palermo. Angelo himself died in 1946. But his family continued his legacy. They persevered through many challenges. This includes the Great Depression World War II and even Hurricane Katrina.
Five feet of water flooded Angelo Brocato’s in 2005. It looked like the end. Many feared the worst. But the Brocato family refused to give up. They reopened in 2006. A huge crowd welcomed them back. Their reopening symbolized hope for the whole Mid-City neighborhood.
Today Angelo Brocato’s stands proudly. It’s a testament to family tradition and resilience. It continues to serve up delicious treats. You can enjoy traditional flavors like torroncino. You can also find modern creations. The shop won a James Beard award nomination. This demonstrates its enduring popularity. Stepping into Angelo Brocato’s is stepping into a century of New Orleans history. A rich history made sweeter by every scoop of gelato and every bite of cannoli. Enjoy the taste of tradition.