In our latest feature, Italia Bakery president Sam Pero shares a little taste of what it’s like to be King.
Sitting just kitty-corner from the PNE, Italia Bakery has been a local mainstay for high-end Italian pastries since 1985, but it was by trusting in the humble Sicilian cannoli that the lifelong baker embarked upon the journey that would secure him the throne as Vancouver’s undisputed Cannoli King.
Where are you from originally? And how did it become your home?
Born in Montreal Canada, moved here to Vancouver in 1973 due to better weather.
Tell us your story, how did the Italia Bakery come to be? And how was the Cannoli King born?
In 1985 my dad started Italia Bakery. I took over Italia bakery in 2006. When we were asked to do Italian days on commercial drive, I looked around and I didn’t know what to serve that day. After about 15 minutes of looking around the bakery on what to sell I decided cannoli, why not. In 2013 I started the food truck Cannoli King Vancouver because of the successful Italian days for the last 5 years. The rest is history!
What’s the most challenging part of owning a bakery? And how was the transition to taking your creations out on the road to events and festivals?
The most challenging part I believe of any business is getting the right staff. I’m very blessed with my staff and have had them for many years. Going to events and festivals was all new to me but exciting at the same time. We always wanted to bring the experience to the customer.
What is something that would surprise people about the baking industry?
That people actually scratch-bake still. It’s very easy to just bring stuff in and re-sell.
What are some of the most memorable events Cannoli King has been part of?
Italian Days, Enchant, Columbia Streat Food, and of course PNE
If I was a cannoli, I’d be a pistachio flavoured-one. What is your personal favourite?
Sicilian
Most memorable celebrity you’ve served your baked goods to?
Cake Boss Buddy Valastro
What’s your personal favourite thing to create in the kitchen?
New cannoli flavours!
What’s the most interesting thing that’s happened in your career so far?
Definitely doing the pastry for Buddy Valastro’s trade show at the convention center.
COVID has affected us all in different ways. Could you share with us how this time has affected you and your business? And do you have a message to share with the community?
For the most part I think people have adjusted well to the limited number of people in the store etc. It’s been great to see people buy locally.
What advice do you have for someone wanting to start their own business? What is something you wish someone had told you?
If your going to start your own business, make sure you are passionate about what you are doing.
What’s coming up for you? (new product releases, development, events)
We are building a commissary for our cannoli production.
For more info:
Website: https://www.cannoliking.ca
Instagram: @cannolikingvancouver
Facebook: Cannoli King
Twitter: @CannolikingVan