Gio's Pastry Shop, Caffe & Italian Market is a delightful slice of Italy. Owner Maria Natale, hailing originally from New Jersey, began this journey initially as a fundraiser. Her dog, Gio, needed an expensive surgery so she decided to begin selling breads and baked treats at the Fountain Inn Farmers Market. Natale states, "Every weekend, I had people asking me if I had sauce or special pastas and so I asked my mom to help me, and it just grew and grew. So, I quit my day job and decided to purchase a brick-and-mortar shop in Fountain Inn where I could regularly sell my baked goods, but also expand". Since then, this charming bakery and market has brought a variety of authentic Italian flavors to the Upstate. Family owned and operated, their selection of breads, cookies, pastries, and pasta caters to both traditional and modern palates. They have won Best of the Upstate in 2023 & 2024 in the Mini Italian/Italian-American Market category.
A Haven for Italian Delights
Gio’s is best known for its exquisite authentic pastries and desserts. Favorites include their creamy cannolis, vibrant rainbow cookies, and sfogliatella—a clamshell-shaped pastry with layers of crispy dough and a sweet ricotta filling. Beyond pastries, the shop offers Italian classics like tiramisu and bombolone, as well as gluten-free and dairy-free options to accommodate dietary needs.
For those craving savory flavors, the Italian Market section is a treasure trove. Customers can find pizza dough, traditional Italian bread, imported goods, and even take-and-bake meals for a convenient and delicious Italian dining experience.
An Authentic Italian Experience for Any Occasion
When you step into Gio's, you will be greeted by the warm, welcoming staff - all knowledgeable about their offerings and ready to even make recommendations for everything from fresh baked cooks to take-and-bake dinners. Gio's also excels at custom orders, whether you’re looking for a showstopping dessert for a wedding or a cozy Italian meal for a family gathering.
Why Gio’s Pastry Shop Stands Out
Named after Maria's beloved dog Gio, this hidden gem has quickly become a must-visit destination in Fountain Inn, offering not just delectable treats but also a connection to Italian culture. Whether you’re picking up a cappuccino, browsing their market goods, or enjoying a sweet treat on a nearby park bench, Gio's provides an experience that blends tradition and community.
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