An Italian bakery in Millcreek will appeal to your sweet and savory sides
Most Italian bakeries in America lean heavily on cannoli and tiramisu. Sapori Italian Bakery in Millcreek takes a different path. Its pastry case holds Sicilian treats that many Utah diners have never seen, let alone tasted. Names like zeppola, meraviglia, violetta and cassata sit beside the familiar favorites. As a result, a quick coffee stop can easily turn into a small tasting tour of southern Italy.
Co-owner Luca La Mantia puts it simply. He has described Sapori as “not another cannoli place.” That mindset shapes everything here, from the menu to the décor.
The Sicilian Couple Behind Sapori Italian Bakery
Sapori is run by husband and wife Luca La Mantia and Azzurra Cuchel. Both were born in Palermo, Sicily. They met as schoolmates, grew up as friends and later married. Cuchel creates every recipe and handles the baking. La Mantia, meanwhile, helps run the business side and greets guests.
The couple moved from Italy to Utah in 2016. A few years later, they opened their first Sapori Italian Bakery & Cafe in Ogden. After building a loyal following there, they expanded to Millcreek in April 2026. Because the recipes come from their own Sicilian upbringing, the food feels personal rather than generic.
What the Millcreek Location Looks and Feels Like
The new shop sits at 3667 S. Highland Drive, in a building that once housed a Sodalicious. That history comes with a useful perk: a drive-thru. So, if you’re short on time, you can grab an espresso and pastry without leaving your car.
Inside, however, the space invites you to stay. Seating is plentiful, and the color palette mixes white, green, yellow and cobalt blue. According to La Mantia, these shades are meant to recall the Mediterranean. Lemon branches appear throughout the room, and lemons even decorate the sign. It’s a fitting nod to Sicily, where lemon trees thrive.
How Ordering Works at This Italian Bakery in Millcreek
The ordering style here is a little different from most American cafes. First, you pick up a tray from a stack. Next, you walk along a self-serve pastry case and choose whatever catches your eye. Finally, you pay at the front counter.
There is also a separate case for desserts. Italian coffee drinks and those desserts are ordered directly at the counter. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
| Detail | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Address | 3667 S. Highland Drive, Millcreek, Utah |
| Original location | 325 24th St., Ogden, Utah |
| Owners | Luca La Mantia and Azzurra Cuchel (both from Palermo) |
| Millcreek opening | April 2026 |
| Hours | Mon–Sat 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; Sun 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. |
| Ordering style | Self-serve pastry case with trays; desserts and coffee at the counter |
| Extras | Drive-thru, plenty of indoor seating, full-size Italian cakes |
Hours can change seasonally, so it’s wise to confirm before you visit.
Sweet and Savory Picks Worth Trying
Sapori balances its sweets with a solid savory lineup. That makes it a good choice for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon break. Some standouts include:
- Strawberry zeppola: A traditional Sicilian sweet usually made for St. Joseph’s Day on March 19. Soft choux pastry is filled with vanilla whipped cream and fresh strawberries, then dusted with powdered sugar. It’s sweet, yet not overly sugary.
- Fazzoletti: Warm, flaky pastries that resemble mini calzones. One popular version, the Genovese, combines potatoes, bacon and pesto.
- Cassata: A classic Sicilian celebration cake, typically layered with sweetened ricotta.
- Pinsa romana pockets: Coming soon, these sandwich-style items can be made gluten free.
- Full-size Italian cakes: Ideal for birthdays and family gatherings.
For a balanced first visit, try one savory fazzoletto and one zeppola. Pair them with a macchiato, and you’ll get a real sense of what Cuchel’s kitchen does best.
Why Sapori Stands Out in Utah’s Bakery Scene
Utah has no shortage of coffee shops and dessert spots. Still, few focus on regional Sicilian baking. Sapori fills that gap with recipes rooted in Palermo traditions. Moreover, the owners’ personal story gives the bakery a sense of authenticity that’s hard to fake.
The Millcreek location also makes these pastries easier to reach for Salt Lake Valley residents. Previously, fans had to drive to Ogden. Now, a short trip down Highland Drive does the job. In short, if you love trying foods you can’t find elsewhere, this spot deserves a place on your list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Sapori Italian Bakery in Millcreek located?
It’s at 3667 S. Highland Drive in Millcreek, Utah. The original location is at 325 24th St. in Ogden.
Does Sapori Italian Bakery have a drive-thru?
Yes. The Millcreek shop has a drive-thru for quick coffee and pastry orders.
What is a zeppola?
A zeppola is a Sicilian pastry made with choux dough and a creamy filling. It’s traditionally served on St. Joseph’s Day, March 19.
Does Sapori offer gluten-free options?
The upcoming pinsa romana pockets can be made gluten free. Ask staff about other options when you visit.
