Business Details
48 Years
experience
Authentic Italian Bakery Since 1978 in Victoria, BC
The Italian Bakery has been Victoria's premier destination for authentic Italian baked goods since 1978. Founded on principles of tradition and quality, we specialize in handcrafted breads, pastries, cakes, and gelato made with locally sourced ingredients. Our family-owned operation spans three generations, combining time-honored techniques with modern culinary innovation. Our team of skilled artisans brings decades of collective experience to every product we create, from organic sourdough loaves to custom wedding cakes. We maintain rigorous quality control through natural fermentation processes and traditional preparation methods. As community-focused business owners, we cultivate a welcoming environment where customers become part of our extended family.Our commitment to excellence extends to our table service offerings featuring locally roasted coffee and seasonal specialties. Through continuous refinement of our craft, we've established ourselves as Victoria's authority on authentic Italian baking. Our physical location at 3197 Quadra Street serves as both production facility and retail space, maintaining operational transparency. With over four decades of service, we remain dedicated to preserving Italian culinary heritage while adapting to contemporary tastes.
Services
Bread
Pastries
Cakes
Gelato
Catering
Coffee Service
Professional Training
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in authentic Italian baking
- Our family-owned operation maintains traditional quality standards
- We use locally sourced ingredients for superior freshness
- We offer both retail products and custom catering solutions
- Our team includes certified baking professionals with decades of experience
Services
Gelato
Our artisan gelato is made in-house using traditional Italian methods. We specialize in authentic flavors like our signature Hazelnut, featuring freshly roasted and ground nuts for maximum flavor. Seasonal offerings include affogatos and cream sodas, with multiple dairy-free options available year-round.
Bread
Handcrafted breads made with natural starters and long fermentation processes. Our organic sourdough loaves develop complex flavors through traditional rising techniques. We use locally sourced grains to ensure freshness and support regional agriculture.
Pastries
Northern Italian-style pastries made with time-tested recipes. Our selection includes both traditional and modern interpretations, featuring seasonal ingredients. Each pastry combines authentic techniques with contemporary presentation.
Cakes
Custom-designed cakes for special occasions. Our specialty includes multi-tiered wedding cakes and celebration cakes. We use premium ingredients and traditional Italian decorating techniques to create edible works of art.
Professional Training
One-on-one baking instruction available in 2-6 hour sessions. Training covers professional techniques for bread, pastry, and gelato making. Sessions include hands-on experience with commercial equipment and expert mentorship.
People
Alberto Pozzolo
Owner
Third-generation baker and business owner with over 40 years of experience. Specializes in traditional Italian bread-making techniques and natural fermentation processes. Leads daily operations and product development.
Jeff Keenliside
Food and Operations
Operations specialist with extensive experience in food service management. Oversees quality control and production standards across all bakery operations. Ensures consistency in product quality and customer service.
Questions
What are your regular business hours?
We're open Wednesday-Friday 9:00 AM-5:30 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Closed Sunday-Tuesday.
Do you offer custom cake orders?
Yes, we create custom cakes for weddings and special events. Please contact us at least 4 weeks in advance for custom orders.
Are there dairy-free gelato options available?
We offer multiple dairy-free gelato flavors made with alternative bases while maintaining traditional Italian taste profiles.
Do you provide baking instruction services?
Yes, we offer one-on-one professional training sessions in baking techniques for bread, pastry, and gelato production.
What makes your bread different from commercial bakeries?
Our bread uses natural starters and long fermentation processes that develop complex flavors and improve digestibility compared to mass-produced breads.
Can I place special orders for baked goods?
Yes, special orders can be arranged by calling 250-388-4557 in advance. We recommend placing orders at least 24 hours ahead for best availability.
Reviews (4)
Nora Liscomb
Jan 26, 2022
Report
I've been coming to the Italian bakery since I was a little girl.. fast forward to today I'm still a fan. Lovely staff and wonderful cakes/pastries/bread and breakfast sandwiches!! My mouth is watering as I type this!
Nikolas Starzomski
Sep 25, 2021
Report
Some of the best Italian baked goods and Gelato I've ever had! Very authentic and reasonably priced!!
Casey MacNamara
Jul 22, 2021
Report
Best croissants anywhere. Ive been going since 1985 and even though I dont live in Victoria, I go every time Im in town because their croissants are still the best after all these years. The brioche is great too!
Dan Turner
Apr 15, 2021
Report
Why can't I give more than 5 stars? I go almost every week, sometimes more than once a week. I always look forward a cheese bun and a latte. Amazing service, friendly staff, delicious food, excellent coffee. Reminds me of my honeymoon in Italy. I have nothing but love for this place and I feel lucky that it is on my doorstep.
