Famous Hollywood Actor Gets Pastry Lesson In Schenectady

A famous Hollywood actor came to Schenectady on Monday to promote an upcoming musical at Proctors, but first, learned the 'ins and outs' of making the perfect cannoli from one of Schenectady's most esteemed Italian bakeries.

The Times Union was on hand on Monday in downtown Schenectady as Hollywood actor Chaz Palminteri, star of the 1993 film A Bronx Tale, was on hand to promote his upcoming musical that will begin a run at Proctors in October. According to the story, Palminteri made a quick pit stop at Villa Italia, a classic and legendary Italian bakery that the Mallozzi family have owned and operated since 1965.

The Times Union story explains how Villa Italia owner Bobby Mallozzi, alongside the man who made the character 'Sonny' famous in the gangster movie set in 1960's, had plenty of work to do in the short time that Chazz was in town.

According to the report, Mallozzi demonstrated the proper cannoli-filling technique, while the actor looked on eventually making his own.  At the end of his time in the bakery, Palminteri indulged in one, and only one,  bite of his creation.

"I can't eat any more," Palminteri said according to the story. "I broke my diet, but one bite – not too bad."