Marcela and I jumped in our jalopy and made the short one-mile drive from Old Breakfast House to Gran Forno Bakery, a legendary Italian bakery located right on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.
We’d heard the hype—but even that didn’t prepare us for the moment we walked in.
Quick Info – Gran Forno Bakery
Name: Grano Forno Bakery
Address: 1235 E Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Phone: (954) 467-2244
Website: https://granforno.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/granfornobakery
Hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Gran Forno Bakery is a Fort Lauderdale Classic
Calling it “a little overwhelming” is an understatement. Gran Forno is packed with rows of house-baked breads, buttery pastries, and imported Italian goods. The smell of fresh ciabatta, brewed espresso, and sugar hits you the moment you walk through the door.
I posted immediately on social media:
“Please…..someone stop me….. GRAN FORNO on Las Olas.”
We eventually narrowed it down and walked out with:
- A loaf of ciabatta bread
- A quiche
- A vanilla muffin
- A slice of decadent chocolate cake
All of it? Outstanding. Gran Forno’s reputation for quality is well-earned.
A Brief History of Gran Forno on Las Olas
Gran Forno Bakery opened in 1996, bringing traditional Italian baking to downtown Fort Lauderdale. “Gran Forno” translates to “Big Oven,” and they live up to the name. Breads are baked fresh daily, using time-honored techniques and slow fermentation to develop rich flavor and perfect crust.
Their signature ciabatta bread put them on the map, but regulars know the real gems are the flaky croissants, dense almond cookies, fruit tarts, and, yes, that dangerous dessert case packed with European-style cakes.
They also stock imported olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and Italian pantry staples—ideal if you’re building out a full picnic or planning a meal at home.
Why You Need to Visit Gran Forno
Whether you’re on the hunt for the best bakery in Fort Lauderdale, grabbing coffee and a pastry, or loading up on goods for a beach picnic, Gran Forno delivers every time. The sheer variety means you’ll need to come back again and again—and you won’t mind one bit.
If you’re on Las Olas and haven’t stepped inside, fix that. Just be warned: it’s nearly impossible to leave with just one thing.
