Maria Cacciotti Salino is the heart behind Dolce Delight, our charming bakery & café nestled in the hills of Danby, NY. An Ithaca native with Italian and Greek roots, Maria is a self-taught baker whose love for food began at a young age. She grew up surrounded by the smells, flavors, and warmth of her family’s kitchens - spaces where food and conversation brought people together and where her passion for baking first took root.
 

Dolce Delight began as a true labor of love. In 2007, Maria’s late husband, Joey Salino, built the original shop, and in 2008, Maria opened its doors as a small dessert and ice cream café. Over time, the bakery grew into a local favorite, known for its warm hospitality, homemade breakfast and lunch offerings, and decadent sweets. What started as a humble neighborhood gem has since expanded to include catering for weddings, parties, and special events throughout the region.

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Maria pours her heart into every detail, from handcrafted pastries to the welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. When she’s not in the kitchen, she enjoys gardening, decorating, and creating beautiful tablescapes that bring a personal, thoughtful touch to gatherings both big and small.

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Dolce Delight remains a true family affair. Maria’s children - Christina, Tyler, and Michael - share her passion for food and proudly run the beloved family pizzeria, Italian Carry Out, located right next door.