Some people say, “We don’t talk about Bruno.” But let’s talk about Bruno’s, shall we? Bruno’s, an Italian and French bakery, recently opened on Main Street in Freehold Township.

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because the Settepani family, who own Bruno’s, used to operate Bruno Bakery in Manhattan and now own Bruno’s Bakery & Restaurant in Staten Island. Well known for their panettone and variety of pastries, many are excited to welcome Bruno’s to New Jersey. brunos-bakery-desserts-freehold-nj

The Shop

You enter facing a long line of display cases filled with colorful, mouthwatering treats. I saw an array of cookies, beautifully decorated marzipan, pies and cakes galore, Italian and French pastries, and more. It is definitely a something-for-everyone situation.Brunos-Bakery-Freehold-NJ

And Bruno’s doesn’t make it easy to decide what you want. During my visit I wanted a bit of everything, but I settled for “just” the cannoli, rainbow cookies, cheesecake, and a tart. To me, these were all perfection. My spouse prefers French pastries. Bruno’s got the job done all around. 

Holiday and Custom Needs

Panettone at Bruno’s Bakery

If you’re thinking about desserts for holiday gatherings or special occasions, don’t pass up Bruno’s. They are famous for their panettone, which they offer during the holiday season. Look out for unique flavors like limoncello, pistachio, fig, and chocolate. They also offer pandoro, an Italian sweet bread, in a variety of flavors. 

And if cake is more your thing, they have you covered there too. Grab a ready-made dessert like mango mousse or Oreo spongecake, or place an order for a custom cake.

Brunos-Italian-French-Bakery-Monmouth-County-NJ

Gelato

As if all the desserts were not enough cause for a visit, Bruno’s will be opening a gelateria at the Freehold location in the spring of 2023, featuring seasonal homemade gelato flavors. I can’t wait to get back for that.

From left: Fina, Joseph, and Daniela (Photo by Melissa Cassandra Olguin Photography)

A Family Affair

The bakery is operated by Pastry Chef Joseph Settepani, his wife, Pastry Chef Daniela Settepani, and Chef Joseph’s sister, Fina Pulaj, who oversees special events. They will also run the gelateria.

Stop in and say hello. After trying their desserts, I’m sure you’ll be talking about Bruno’s, too.

Bruno’s Bakery & Gelateria
356 W. Main Street
Freehold, NJ

Bruno’s Bakery & Restaurant 
1650 Hylan Blvd.
Staten Island, NY