Founded by Antonio Veniero of Sorrento,[2] the bakery was opened as a pool emporium and caffè where Veniero served his baked products to customers. The demand for his pastries and cakes won him awards in Rome, Bologna and the New York World's Fair. The bakery has been continuously owned and operated by the Veniero family since its founding.[3] In 1984 the family added an adjoining warm enclave, with a ceiling of stained-glass panels and the original pressed tin.[4] Frank Zerilli changed the oven from coal to gas by the 1980s as well,[5] and more recently Veniero's began selling carb-free cheesecakes and sugar-free cookies.[6]
Pasticceria is Italian for "cake shop" or "confectioner's shop."[7]
In 2010, Veniero's was named the winner for the Best Desserts in New York City by AOL's City's Best website.[12] Furthermore, some food tour companies visit Veniero's as part of their programs.[13]