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September 2, 2025A Century of Tradition Renewed: Civitello’s Celebrates Restoration and Community Support
In 1911, a young immigrant from Alvignano, Italy, named Ralph Civitello arrived in the United States with a vision for a brighter future. After working at General Electric in Schenectady, he followed his passion for his Italian heritage and, in September 1921, established Civitello’s at 42 North Jay Street. The bakery quickly became a neighborhood treasure, beloved for its authentic Italian pastries and welcoming atmosphere.
More than a century later, Civitello’s continues to thrive. In 2022, Mark Novak purchased the bakery and began an extensive renovation project to preserve its history while enhancing its future. On July 31, the community came together to celebrate the official reopening. The event was hosted in partnership with the Capital Region Chamber, the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation, Schenectady Metroplex, and Discover Schenectady. With support from Metroplex and other regional business and tourism organizations, the restoration has returned Civitello’s to its original glory while maintaining the timeless charm that has made it a cherished gathering place for generations.
Local and state leaders joined in the celebration, including Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy, City Councilwoman Carmel Patrick, Senator Jim Tedisco, and Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, who brought greetings and proclamations in honor of the occasion. Assemblyman Santabarbara remarked, “From fresh pastries to neighborhood memories… and now a bocce court out back, this place is back and better than ever!”
With its rich history, vibrant present, and bright future, Civitello’s remains a symbol of tradition, community, and excellence in Schenectady.
All 2025 ribbon cuttings of the Capital Region Chamber and its affiliates are sponsored by Community Bank, N.A.
