North End Cafe Overflows With Sandwiches and Italian Desserts

A North End gelato shop has shifted its focus from frozen goods to sandwiches and cafe fare in a rebranding that came to life this week. Gigi Gelateria is now Dolce (272 Hanover St., Boston), remaining under the direction of DePasquale Ventures, a prominent North End restaurant family that includes the likes of Mare Oyster Bar, Trattoria il Panino, and Bricco, among others.

Dolce operates all day, offering grab-and-go items like daily sheet pizzas and pre-made sandwiches, in addition to baked goods (made at big sibling Bricco) and coffee beverages. Holding onto its roots, Dolce also serves gelato and cannoli, as well as Italian-style doughnuts filled with cream, chocolate, or jam, and cornetti, croissant-shaped Italian baked treats. There’s some seating within the cafe for those looking to have a cappuccino or a snack in-house.

Sandwiches come on various breads, including ciabatta, focaccia, and French, with fillings like prosciutto, mortadella, thin-sliced zucchini, greens, and cheese. Sheet pizza options include classic Margherita and potato and sausage, among others. Dolce operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.

• A Café Called Dolce Has Replaced DePasquale’s North End Gelateria [BM]