Let's kick off this review with a bit of backstory: I have strong ties to Italy, making the journey about four times a year (over 60 trips in total), with family connections there, and even finding love in the country. From traversing the mainland to exploring Sicily and Sardinia, I've covered a lot of ground. To boot, I'm a bit of an espresso snob.
Bontà is that moment when the spotlight hits an empty stage, and then, the star emerges. That star shines brilliantly on Fifth Avenue, and I'm eager to spill the beans about this gem. Stepping into Bontà feels like a direct trip to Italy. It's truly authentic.
Let's break it down:
Cornetti (Italy's answer to croissants):
Available in Plain, Custard Cream, Nutella, Jam, and Pistachio Cream varieties—a must-have for Italian breakfasts. The perfect outer crunch leads to a soft interior.
Bomboloni (Italian donuts):
These goodies come with a variety of fillings: Plain, Custard Cream, Nutella, Jam, and Pistachio Cream.
Pizza in teglia (Thicker-crusted pizza baked in a rectangular pan):
Their offerings include Margherita, Prosciutto Cotto and Mushroom, Quattro Formaggi, and other special pizzas.
Panini (sandwiches):
Please, whatever you do, don’t ask for “A Panini!” That's like asking for "a sandwiches". One sandwich is a Panino! (NOW YOU KNOW!!!) Their Pizza Ripiena (Pizza Filled) includes options like Prosciutto di Parma Arugula, Tomato, Mozzarella, and Olive Oil, Prosciutto Cotto (Ham) Mozzarella, and Olive Oil, Mortadella with Pistachio Pesto, Caprese (Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Pesto), Turkey, Cream Cheese, and Arugula, and Salami, Ricotta, and Arugula.
Sfogliatelle (shell-like pastries with multiple layers of thin, flaky pastry dough):
Pronounced (SFO LEE A TELLA)
These treats boast a filling typically made of ricotta cheese, sugar, and sometimes candied citrus peel. They provide a delightful crunch thanks to their freshness.
Coffee:
Please don’t say ex-presso; it's pronounced es-spres-so! Italians swear by espresso drinks; for example, if you want American coffee, that's a shot of espresso mixed with hot water. Bontà's espresso is perfect! Smooth as can be with a crema on top. The strong presence of crema in an espresso shot indicates a quality, well-ground coffee and a skilled barista!
Gelati (Plural form of Gelato referring to the many flavors):
I tried two flavors, and they were as creamy as can be, not overly sweet.
So, there you have it. For an authentic treat, you must try Bontà, located at 824 5th Ave S #2, Naples, FL 34102.
Italian word Quiz: What does Bontà mean…… (You got this!)
