A Framingham Tradition

1917 – Dragone & Gastone

The bakery was started in 1917 by three immigrants from Italy, Pietro Dragone and his brothers’ in law Vittorio and Giuseppe Gastone. Tragically, Guiseppe was killed when his horse and wagon were struck by an automobile while making deliveries in 1921. Shortly after, Vittorio took ill. A call went out to his brother in law, Vincenzo Bertolino and his wife Giusepina, both 21, and just married and living in Springfield, they were only planning to stay for a year to help but ended up staying a lifetime.

1924 – Bertolino & Capra

In 1923, they purchased the house and the bakery. Soon after the purchase, Enrico Capra and his wife Rena became partners. When Enrico retired in 1965, the bakery was run by Vincenzo, with help from his son, Aurelio, daughter Rosanne and her husband Ernest Thomas.

1975 – Ernest & Rosanne (Bertolino) Thomas

Aurelio passed suddenly in 1975, but with the help of employees, the bakery continued to thrive. Vincenzo passed in 1976 leaving the bakery to Rosanne. As Rosanne and Ernie’s children, Joan, Ernie and Kathy finished school they joined the team. In 1995, Ernest and Rosanne retired, turning the bakery over to Joan, Ernie, and Kathy. We hope to continue our traditions and serve our beloved customers for another 100 years!

Our pizza, bread and rolls are still made the old fashion way. Baked fresh daily, from scratch and by hand. We are most famous for our sheet pizzas, a staple at many family gatherings and holiday meals.