Little Italy
Little Italy is located next to Chinatown and Canal Street on Manhattan. Though Chinatown has largely absorbed what was formerly Little Italy, one section does remain. This area is located primarily along Mulberry Street.
Populated by vibrant displays of Italian American pride, you can smell the famous food of Little Italy as you arrive.
Seasonally, Little Italy is famous for the Feast of San Gennaro, taking place in September. During this time, many of the restaurants on the street offer specials. However, the festival makes the area extremely crowded, so it’s sometimes difficult to grab a seat. Over a million attendees crowd into the four blocks comprising Little Italy. While the festival is primarily religious and intended to reflect the spirit and heritage of the residents of Little Italy, it is also a festival including food and drink, drawing many visitors.
If you’re hoping to enjoy both Canal Street/Chinatown and Little Italy in the same outing, shop on Canal Street first to avoid serious crowds. Head down Mulberry Street and into Little Italy before noon to find lunch specials.
If you look like a tourist, you’ll likely draw attention from the barkers, especially towards the beginning of the lunch hour. Barkers are Italian and Italian American restaurant workers that stand outside and attempt to lure you in by promising the best wine or an amazing lunch special. If you decline (even politely), you may experience an insult or two from the barkers, who also insult one another. If you can expect this behavior, it may seem amusing—but without a warning, tourists are frequently offended.
Most of the businesses in Little Italy are now restaurants geared towards tourists—that is, it’s more of a historic tourist destination than a residential area now. You’ll have your pick of multiple exquisite dining establishments and browsing them on an empty stomach is part of the experience.
After lunch, head to Ferrara Bakery and Café for desserts. Ferrara typically offers multiple types of cannoli in two sizes in addition to cookies, coffee, pastries and other delectables.
Little Italy also houses the Italian American Museum and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
It’s possible to thoroughly tour Chinatown, Canal Street and Little Italy in one day, but avoiding the crowds is crucial to accomplishing this.
Posted by Tara M. Clapper
