Imagine the sweet aroma of lemon ice wafting through Detroit’s Italian neighborhood. This is how the story of Bommarito Bakery began.
In 1925 Jim Bommarito and his wife Rose embarked on a baking journey. They came from Terrasini in Sicily. Instead of joining the auto industry, Jim chose to pursue his passion. With Vito and Jack, they began selling treats. Lemon ice, gelate, cookies, and wedding cakes were their specialties. Their first location was at Joseph Campau and Mullet. This was in the heart of Detroit’s Italian community.
The bakery quickly gained popularity. In 1934, Jim and Rose expanded. They opened their own store on Cadillac Boulevard and Forest. It was named Jim Bommarito Dolceria Palermo. The bakery remained at that location until 1961. The family business then moved to Greater Mack in St. Clair Shores. Bommarito Bakery continues to serve the community from there today.
The bakery’s success is a tribute to the Bommarito and Valenti families. Their hard work and dedication have been recognized. They were featured on Rick Rowe’s Best Bets on WDIV Channel 4. Articles in local and Detroit newspapers also celebrated them.
For three generations, Bommarito Bakery has been a community staple. They offer Italian bread and pastries. Cannolis and submarine sandwiches are also popular. Pizza, wine, and grocery products round out their offerings. The Bommarito family has always valued honest hard work. They take pride in their quality and service. Strong family ties are at the heart of their business. Jim, Rose, Vito, Jack, Sam, and Grace are missed. But their legacy lives on through the bakery.
In the early 1940s, Sam Valenti joined the family. He married Grace Bommarito. Sam and Grace ran the bakery for many years. Later, their daughters took over. Roseanne Valenti, Christine Corrado, and Grace Adams managed the store. Frances Cottone and son-in-law Eric Adams also joined. Sam continued to visit the bakery daily. He remained involved until his health declined in 2005.
Bommarito Bakery stands as a testament to family tradition. It shows dedication to quality and community. The sweet scent of their baked goods still fills the air. It reminds us of the rich history and the Bommarito family’s legacy.