Italian bakery Martusciello will reopen in Gates, New York

The Italian bakery, best known for its rolls and sandwiches, will return after an absence of nearly three years.

Boutique bakery Martusciello will open at 2280 Lyell Ave. at Gates in early 2025.

“I’ve put my whole life into this business,” said Frank Martusciello, 70.

Gaetano and Maria Martucello, Frank’s parents, began baking and selling bread from their home on Saratoga Avenue in the late 1950s. Gaetano learned the baking business while growing up near Naples, Italy.

Frank started working at the bakery at age 16 and took over the business when Gaetano retired. He opened a wholesale business and also added pizza, calzones, sandwiches and sweets to the retail store.

In 1996, he bought a former hardware store on Lyell Avenue and moved the bakery there.

He closed it in early 2022, citing soaring ingredient prices, problems finding staff and difficulty repairing equipment.

Even though the bakery was busy, “it was very difficult to run a business in these conditions,” he said. “I did everything I could while I was open. My staff were wonderful.”

After closing, he gutted the building and subdivided the space. He sold some equipment and bought equipment designed for baking on a smaller scale.

The plan is to start slow and focus on baking popular buns and breads. It won’t serve sandwiches or pizza, at least not initially. “I can’t promise everything at this point,” he said.

He hopes restoring the bakery will attract a buyer or investor to continue the Martusciello family’s legacy. “I want this to continue,” he said. “It should get someone’s attention.”

Tracy Schumacher covers the Rochester food and drink scene. Notice anything open or closed in your area? Send tips to [email protected].