Best Thing We Ate Last Night: Cannoli at In Riva

Story and Photo by Danya Henninger

The wood-fired pizza at East Falls’ In Riva is among the tops in the city (more on that tomorrow as Pizza Week continues), but there is only so much savory snacking one can handle on a hot summer eve. Happily, the dessert side of Arthur Cavalliere’s Italian-focused menu holds this gem - a mini trio of powder-dusted treats.

Shells for the cannoli are imported from Sicily, and somehow retain a wonderfully crisp pop after their transatlantic trip. They melt away to nothingness in a matter of seconds, leaving behind the creamy fillings, all of which favor flavor over sweetness. Lemon enlivens the traditional ricotta, the earthy taste of olive oil mingles with the chocolate, and pistachio is the runaway winner of the bunch, bringing a grassy burst of nutty deliciousness. So devour the pizza first, but take the time to linger at the outdoor bar with a plate of these confections as you gaze over the Schuylkill and watch the setting sun ($6; 215-438-4848).