Things to do and see in Little Italy New York
Little Italy in Manhattan is roughly located between SoHo and Chinatown. Nowadays, with the expansion of Chinatown, the area is down to four blocks. Italian influences are also diminishing because of the original residents moving to other Italian boroughs. Luckily, the neighbourhood’s Italian heart still beats if you take the time to stroll through the streets and explore the things to do and see in Little Italy, New York.
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Things to do and see in Little Italy
Because Little Italy is not that big, it is easy to explore. The true Italian stores and restaurants are still located on Grand and Mulberry Street. Walking around here gives you that old-age atmosphere. Visit one of the bakeries for some Italian sweets. Or take a photo of the famous Little Italy sign. As you walk along Mulberry Street, you’ll be greeted by the lyrics of “Volare” by Domenico Modugno.
Little Italy Tour
If you would like to get to know the area better, try a guided walking tour. It includes SoHo and Chinatown as well giving you a great overview of the area. The local guide can tell you about the history of these neighbourhoods. This tour starts on Spring Street in SoHo and moves on to Little Italy and Chinatown.
Book the Soho, Chinatown and Little Italy Tour here
Restaurants in Little Italy
A great Mafia place is Umberto’s Clam House on 132 Mulberry Street. At their old address, two blocks down, mobster Joe Gallo was shot while he was enjoying some fish. That probably won’t happen to you: Little Italy has become a very safe neighbourhood, if not a little boring. Go to the Mulberry Street Bar located on 176 Mulberry Street. It looks rather shady, but that is after all, what you’re looking for in Little Italy. The Sopranos also used this place.
The Feast of San Gennaro
If you are visiting New York in September, you should not skip Little Italy where the Feast of San Gennaro is celebrated. For 11 days straight you can enjoy live music, tons of food and lots of other entertainment on the streets of Little Italy.
Hotels in Little Italy
Little Italy is a small neighbourhood, so there are not that many hotels to be found. If you would still like to spend the night in this atmospheric area, The Nolitan New York in Nolita is a good choice. Another great hotel in Little Italy, which is actually one of my favourites, is the NobleDEN Hotel.
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