Bommarito Bakery Celebrates 100 Years as St. Clair Shores’ Italian Tradition
ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI – Metro Detroit’s beloved Bommarito Bakery has reached a milestone few family businesses ever achieve: 100 years in operation. Known for introducing Detroit to its very first cannoli, the bakery has remained a staple of Italian flavor and community tradition for generations.
From Detroit’s First Cannoli to a Household Name
Founded in 1925 by Jim Bommarito, the bakery earned an early reputation by offering the city something entirely new: authentic Italian cannoli. Current owner Eric Adams, related to Bommarito by marriage, reflected on that legacy:
“Jim Bommarito is the original one who came to Detroit and did the first cannoli – 1925; nobody else had them before that.”
That single pastry became a symbol of authenticity, drawing customers from across the area and setting Bommarito Bakery apart as a pioneer of Italian cuisine in the region.
Relocating and Expanding in St. Clair Shores
While its origins were in Detroit, the bakery relocated in 1961 to Greater Mack Avenue in St. Clair Shores, under the guidance of Jim’s son-in-law, Sam Valenti. Valenti saw the suburb as fertile ground for expanding beyond pastries.
His daughter, Christine Corrado, explained that diversification was necessary:
“My dad introduced subs and pizzas. To try to stay in this business with just cannolis, you just couldn’t do it.”
From that point forward, the bakery became known not only for cannoli but also for its bread, pizza, and subs, offering something for every meal and occasion.
A Century of Family and Consistency
Today, Bommarito Bakery is run by Adams along with Bommarito’s granddaughters, including Christine Corrado. Despite the pressures from big-box retailers and shifting consumer habits, they credit their longevity to staying true to family recipes and scratch-made quality.
Corrado explained to FOX 2 Detroit:
“Our customers know that what we put out is made from scratch, and it’s good value for the money. That’s why we’ve lasted this long.”
This blend of tradition and value has kept customers returning, generation after generation.
Centennial Celebration and Historic Recognition
To mark its centennial, the family gathered for an intimate ceremony unveiling a historic marker, scheduled for a Monday evening — a day the bakery has always remained closed. The event reflected the bakery’s humble, community-focused spirit rather than a large commercial celebration.
Corrado described her emotions during the event:
“We are so incredibly honored by this. To see our family’s name etched into history this way, it’s overwhelming.”
The historic marker now serves as a permanent reminder of the bakery’s contribution to the region’s cultural and culinary landscape.
Looking Ahead to the Next Generation
In response to speculation about a possible closure, Adams reassured customers that Bommarito Bakery’s future remains secure. Plans are in place for the business to continue under the next generation.
He emphasized in an interview with WXYZ:
“Our goal is to have my son and my daughter-in-law and the next generation continue the business. There’s a lot of rumors that we’re closing. Not going to happen.”
The confirmation was welcomed by loyal customers who have come to see Bommarito as more than a bakery — but as a cornerstone of the community.
A Community Anchor for 100 Years
For residents of St. Clair Shores and greater Detroit, Bommarito Bakery is not only a place to buy bread or pastries; it is a living link to heritage and shared memory. Generations of families have celebrated milestones with its goods, and the recognition of its centennial underscores its role as a cultural landmark.
Even as tastes and trends evolve, the bakery has maintained its place by combining authenticity with adaptability — from Detroit’s first cannoli to hearty subs and pizzas that draw customers daily.
Do you think family-owned bakeries like Bommarito are essential to keeping community traditions alive? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
