A Foodie’s Guide to Exploring New York City’s Little Italy
New York City’s Little Italy is a historic neighborhood known for its rich Italian heritage, authentic eateries, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re starting your day with an espresso and pastry or ending it with a classic Italian dessert, this guide will help you navigate the best dining options in the area. With traditional family-run restaurants and modern Italian-inspired cafés, there’s something for every foodie to enjoy. This guide breaks down the top spots in Little Italy for breakfast and brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert, ensuring you experience the best of the neighborhood’s flavors. Here’s where to eat in New York City’s Little Italy.
Breakfast & Brunch
Da Gennaro Restaurant
Da Gennaro offers a variety of Italian specialties in a newly renovated, intimate dining room. It’s an excellent spot to begin your day with a hearty meal.
- Location: 129 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 10 AM – 12 AM (Sun – Thurs), 10 AM – 1 AM (Fri & Sat)
- Atmosphere: Intimate dining room with a family-friendly environment
- Popular Menu Item: Frittata
- Good to Know: Offers breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner
- Website: dagennarorestaurant.com
Caffé Roma
Caffé Roma has been serving traditional Italian pastries and strong espresso since 1891. It’s a great spot to enjoy a peaceful morning in the heart of Little Italy.
- Location: 385 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM daily
- Atmosphere: Classic Italian pastry shop with vintage décor
- Popular Menu Item: Sfogliatella
- Good to Know: Family-owned and operated for over a century
- Website: facebook.com/CaffeRomaNYC
Grotta Azzurra
Founded in 1908, Grotta Azzurra is a legendary Italian restaurant named after the famous blue grotto in Capri. They offer a delightful breakfast menu in a historic setting.
- Location: 177 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 10 AM – 11 PM daily
- Atmosphere: Historic ambiance with classic Italian décor
- Popular Menu Item: Eggs Benedict
- Good to Know: Known for its rich history and celebrity patrons
- Website: bluegrotta.com
Lunch
Benito One
Benito One is a cozy trattoria serving homestyle Italian dishes in an intimate setting. Known for its hearty pasta dishes and friendly service, it’s a great choice for a midday meal.
- Location: 174 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 12 PM – 10 PM daily
- Atmosphere: Small, family-run eatery with a welcoming vibe
- Popular Menu Item: Chicken Parmesan
- Good to Know: Cash-only establishment
- Website: benitoone.com
Lunella Ristorante
A casual yet refined Italian eatery, Lunella Ristorante offers classic Italian-American dishes with fresh ingredients and generous portions.
- Location: 173 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 12:30 – 10:00 pm (Mon-Fri), 12PM – 11PM (Sat & Sun)
- Atmosphere: Cozy with rustic décor
- Popular Menu Item: Lobster Ravioli
- Good to Know: Offers an extensive wine selection
- Website: lunellarestaurant.com
Casa Bella Restaurant
Located on Mulberry Street, Casa Bella offers classic Italian specialties in a newly renovated, intimate dining room. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch.
- Location: 127 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 12 PM – 11 PM (Sun-Thurs), 12 PM – 11:30 PM (Fri & Sat)
- Atmosphere: Intimate dining room with a modern touch
- Popular Menu Item: Spaghetti Carbonara
- Good to Know: Offers outdoor seating during warmer months
- Website: casabellarestaurant.com
Dinner
Da Nico Ristorante
Da Nico Ristorante is a go-to for classic Italian-American fare, featuring a wood-fired oven and an extensive pasta menu. The welcoming ambiance and generous portions make it a dinner favorite.
- Location: 164 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 12PM – 10PM (Mon-Thurs) 12PM – 11PM (Fri-Sun)
- Atmosphere: Warm and inviting with a traditional Italian feel
- Popular Menu Item: Brick-Oven Pizza
- Good to Know: Known for their homemade zeppoles
- Website: danicoristorante.com
Il Cortile
Il Cortile has been serving award-winning authentic Italian cuisine in a refined setting for over 40 years. In operation since 1975, this family-owned restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience in the heart of Little Italy.
- Location: 125 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 12 PM – 10 PM daily
- Atmosphere: Elegant with indoor garden seating
- Popular Menu Item: Osso Buco
- Good to Know: Family-owned and known for its seasonal specials
- Website: ilcortilenyc.com
Gelso & Grand
Gelso & Grand, sister brand of Da Gennaro restaurant, combines modern Italian flavors with classic traditions, making it a go-to for dessert lovers in Little Italy since.
- Location: 186 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 11 AM – 11 PM (Sun-Thurs), 11 AM – 12AM (Fri & Sat)
- Atmosphere: Trendy with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating
- Popular Menu Item: Ricotta Cheesecake
- Good to Know: Features an extensive cocktail menu alongside desserts
- Website: gelsoandgrand.com
Dessert
Ferrara Bakery & Café
A staple in Little Italy since 1892, Ferrara Bakery & Café is famous for its espresso, Italian pastries, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to start your day with a cappuccino and a freshly baked cannoli.
- Location: 195 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM daily, Brunch: 9AM – 3PM
- Atmosphere: Classic Italian café with indoor and outdoor seating
- Popular Menu Item: Cannoli
- Good to Know: Also offers a selection of gelato and traditional Italian cookies
- Website:ferraranyc.com
Caffé Palermo
Caffé Palermo has been serving some of the best cannoli in Little Italy for over 40 years. Their dessert menu also features tiramisu, cheesecake, and Italian coffee.
- Location: 148 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 10 AM – 12 AM daily
- Atmosphere: Small café with a cozy old-school vibe
- Popular Menu Item: Cannoli
- Good to Know: Their cannoli were voted #1 best in New York
- Website: caffepalermo.com
Gelso & Grand
If you cho0se to have dinner at Gelso & Grand, consider staying for one of their desserts which combines modern Italian flavors with classic traditions. This is a go-to spot for those with a sweet tooth in Little Italy.
- Location: 186 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 11 AM – 11 PM (Sun-Thurs), 11 AM – 12AM (Fri & Sat)
- Atmosphere: Trendy with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating
- Popular Menu Item: Ricotta Cheesecake
- Good to Know: Features an extensive cocktail menu alongside desserts
- Website: gelsoandgrand.com
La Bella Ferrara
La Bella Ferrara is a local treasure in Little Italy, known for its authentic Italian pastries and espresso drinks.
- Location: 108 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
- Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM daily
- Atmosphere: Small and charming with an old-school Italian bakery feel
- Popular Menu Item: Tiramisu
- Good to Know: Known for large portions and homemade flavors
- Website: labellaferrarapasticceria108.com
Little Italy is filled with culinary gems that reflect generations of Italian tradition and flavors. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick espresso or sitting down for a leisurely dinner, these restaurants and cafés provide a true taste of Italy in the heart of New York City. Exploring Little Italy’s food scene is a must for both locals and visitors who appreciate authentic Italian cuisine.
Take a look at some other New York neighborhoods worth exploring here.
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