If you are looking for authentic New York Italian pastries, this is the only place to go. Now, I can't tell you about all of the pastries: a. because there are so many to choose from and b. because I only ever order two things from here.
It's a family tradition to come to this bakery for cannoli's and the sfogliatelle. You are probably familiar with what cannoli's are, but sfogliatelle (In Italian means many layers) look like clam shells and they are filled with ricotta flavored with candied orange rind. They are super super super tasty when done right! Here they are lined up in their case:
And cut in half:
Their cannoli's are also out of this world! Seriously, you aren't going to find better in NY!
Braving the trip down to tourist filled little Italy is well worth it for the pastries at La Bella Ferrara! PS just don't confuse it with Ferrara's down the street, totally different place 
La Bella Ferrara
108 Mulberry St. (between Canal & Hester St.)
New York, NY 10013
212.966.7867
The cannolis in the chocolate shell are my favorites!
I go there all the time! Well, when I’m in the Little Italy area.
Love that place. You’re right — their cannoli rocks. Ferrara’s down the street is good, too, but for struffala — I send them as gifts during the holidays.