[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 183 (Friday, December 23, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1738]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN HONOR OF THE FORTUNATO BROTHERS CAFE

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 23, 2016

  Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay 
tribute to the Fortunato Brothers Cafe, which is celebrating its 40th 
anniversary as a neighborhood institution in Brooklyn's Williamsburg. 
What started as an idea by three brothers from Italy to make and sell 
authentic Italian desserts has become a landmark and a point of pride 
for New York's vibrant Italian community.
  Opened in October 1976 by Salvatore, Michael, and Mario Fortunato in 
Williamsburg, the Fortunato Brothers Cafe is known for its famous 
pastries with displays full of cannoli, marzipan, tarts, gelato, and 
cakes of all shapes and sizes. Using the same original recipes since 
its opening, Fortunato Brothers Cafe's sweets are just as delicious now 
as they were in 1976.
  The bakery's continued success serves as a model of excellence for 
other small businesses and speaks to the strength of New York's Italian 
community. In a city crowded with Italian restaurants and eateries, 
Fortunato Brothers Cafe continues to shine due to the high standard its 
owners have set for it.
  The Fortunato Brothers Cafe is a symbol of the resilience and 
liveliness of Italian heritage. Although Williamsburg has changed a lot 
over the years, the bakery's recipes and atmosphere are timeless. 
Fortunato Brothers Cafe's widespread popularity reflects the profound 
positive impact Italian culture has had on New York.
  Fortunato Brothers Cafe continues to be a welcoming and familiar 
place for neighbors to come together over a cup of coffee or a pastry. 
Still owned by Salvatore, Michael, and Mario, the bakery remains 
dedicated to serving the community with delicious baked goods and a 
welcoming environment.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 
extraordinary achievements of the Fortunato Brothers Cafe as it 
celebrates 40 years of serving tasty delicacies in North Brooklyn.