Il Cantuccio to open first outpost in the U.S.

The smell of freshly baked Italian breads and cookies will be wafting into more than a few West Village backyards starting this fall. Il Cantuccio, a bakery based in Florence, Italy, is entering the U.S. market by leasing 1,400 square feet at 91 Christopher St., at Bleecker Street.

"They're famous for their almond and chocolate biscotti," said Amy Zhen, the Evans Real Estate broker who represented Il Cantuccio along with colleague Michele DiBari.

The family-run business, which began almost three decades ago, should open for business by October. It replaces the Bleecker's Corner restaurant at a high-traffic location that lures both tourists and locals, thanks to its proximity to many destination shops, subways and the PATH train.

The asking rent for the 15-year lease, which includes a 450-square-foot back yard and a 1,000-square-foot basement, was $171 a square foot.

Carole Greene of Newmark Knight Frank Retail represented landlord Osnos/Mayer Trust.

Source: CRAIN'S New York Business