Little Italy: New York’s Italian neighborhood

What to Know About Little Italy

• Little Italy is a neighborhood in the southern part of Manhattan, between Chinatown and SoHo. The neighborhood as it exists today took shape in the early 20th century, when Italian immigrants arrived in large numbers. These Italian expatriates sought a better life in America, escaping the poverty that gripped Italy at the time.
• Over time, the neighborhood shrank considerably. Little Italy today consists of just a few streets, particularly Mulberry Street, which forms the heart of the neighborhood. This part of Manhattan remains a lively and welcoming place.
• If you’re in New York in September, you’ll have the chance to experience the San Gennaro festival. The patron saint of Naples is celebrated on September 19, but festivities last more than 10 days.
• There’s also another Italian neighborhood in New York, in the Bronx. The Little Italy of the Bronx is far less touristy, and it’s worth a visit to see another side of New York.

What to See in Little Italy

• As you pass under the large banner marking the neighborhood’s entrance, you’ll immediately spot Italian flags adorning the buildings and the distinctive signs of traditional Italian pizzerias and cafés. Within a single block, you’ll feel transported to Rome or Naples. Don’t hesitate to step into a typical family restaurant. You’ll find all the Italian specialties on the menu: pasta, pizza, cannoli, and more. Don’t miss the classic tiramisu and limoncello. Looking for a recommendation? Head to Lombardi’s, America’s first pizzeria.
• The neighborhood’s grocery stores overflow with products imported directly from Italy, including olive oil. The same goes for souvenir shops, which are unmistakably Italian in character. A unique corner of Manhattan.
• Little Italy also stands out for its many impressive street art murals. On Mulberry Street, don’t miss the enormous face of the Statue of Liberty and the beautiful mural of actress Audrey Hepburn. Both were created by American artist Tristan Eaton and have become iconic symbols of Little Italy.
• If you’re interested in Little Italy’s history, visit the Italian American Museum. This museum, which opened in 2024, features permanent and rotating exhibitions.
• To learn more about the neighborhood, consider joining our guided tour of Little Italy. It’s the best way to discover all the neighborhood has to offer and hear the stories behind it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people live in Little Italy in New York?

Little Italy is a very small neighborhood in New York. The Italian American population is estimated at around 10,000 people. That’s five times smaller than Chinatown, which surrounds Little Italy.

What is the best pizzeria in Little Italy?

Lombardi’s deserves special mention as America’s first pizzeria. This family-run pizzeria was founded in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi, an immigrant who had just arrived from Naples. You can see the founding date on the traditional brick oven.

Little Italy in Photos

Neighborhood Map