Jack Nicholson, the legendary actor, has expressed his admiration for a bakery in Upstate New York that has been delighting customers for over a century. During the filming of *Ironweed* in Albany in 1987, Nicholson was introduced to Perreca’s Bakery by his driver, who hailed from Schenectady. This initial encounter led to a fondness for the bakery’s unique bread.
Perreca’s Bakery: A Century of Tradition
Founded in 1913 by Salvatore and Carmella Perreca, this bakery has been a staple of the local community for 112 years. They immigrated from Italy and brought with them the traditional recipe for their famous bread. The bread is crafted in a coal-fired brick oven, just as it has been since 1914, resulting in a product that boasts a thick crust and a nutty flavor.
Nicholson’s affinity for the bread has been long-lasting. He has been known to ask visitors to bring the bread with them to California and even arrange for it to be shipped directly to his home. According to co-owner Maria Papa, Nicholson treasures this special bread so much that he freezes it. She jokingly remarked that he would rather hand out cash than share his bread with guests.
A Culinary Experience Like No Other
Perreca’s Bakery is not just about bread. Customers rave about the pizzeria that offers what many consider to be some of the best pizza in America. The menu features offerings such as the renowned tomato pie, which incorporates seasoned red sauce, Romano, and Parmesan cheese. Reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Yelp highlight the bakery’s reputation, with one customer stating, “No trip to Schenectady would ever be complete without stopping by this legendary bakery.”
- Popular bread varieties: Available in round and rectangular loaves.
- Sizes: Offered in 1-pound and 2-pound loaves.
- Additional offerings: Classic Italian dishes served alongside the bread.
- Local partnerships: Bread is now sold in local co-ops as well.
With its rich history, commitment to quality, and community support, Perreca’s Bakery continues to be an iconic establishment in Schenectady, New York. The bakery remains a favorite not only of stars like Nicholson but also of locals and visitors alike.
