Little Italy in the Bronx, New York’s authentic Italian neighborhood

New York has two Italian neighborhoods, one in Manhattan and another in the Bronx. I've visited both and I prefer the one in the Bronx.

What to Know About Little Italy in the Bronx

When you visit lower Manhattan, consider stopping by Little Italy, New York’s original Italian neighborhood. This historic area deserves a visit for its restaurants and striking murals (see my article on murals and graffiti in Little Italy). Over the years, Manhattan’s Little Italy has shrunk considerably, gradually absorbed by the expanding Chinatown neighborhood.
To experience the real Italian neighborhood of today’s New York, head to the Bronx. You’ll find an authentic atmosphere and discover a neighborhood well off the typical tourist path. Here, people speak Italian, eat Italian, and live Italian.

The Bronx’s Italian neighborhood centers on two main streets: Arthur Avenue and East 187th Street. At the neighborhood’s entrance, look for the enormous Italian flag painted on the street—that’s the boundary.
Stroll through the Italian groceries and specialty shops. Many of these stores have disappeared from Manhattan’s Little Italy.
Stop for a cappuccino at a café terrace, or plan lunch or dinner. For a quick slice of pizza, try Full Moon at the corner of 187th Street and Arthur Avenue. For a more leisurely meal, Zero Otto Nove serves whole pizzas and Italian specialties (2357 Arthur Avenue).
The neighborhood is perfectly safe and peaceful. It’s an excellent way to explore the Bronx, a New York borough with an outdated reputation that’s improving steadily. You’ll find this detour well worth your time.

The Bronx’s Italian neighborhood has no direct subway access. Take the D train to Fordham Road station, then walk about 15 minutes east along 187th Street. You can’t miss it.
You can combine a visit to Little Italy in the Bronx with the Bronx Zoo, which is about a 15-minute walk away.