Little Italy & Nolita

Little Italy & Nolita Highlights

1. Most Precious Blood Church
A cornerstone of Little Italy’s spiritual life, the Most Precious Blood Church reflects the deep faith of Italian immigrants who settled here in the late 19th century. Dedicated in 1904, the church is a sanctuary of ornate frescoes, marble altars, and rich history. It’s also the official home of the San Gennaro statue, a key figure in the annual feast that draws thousands.

2. Little Italy Sign
The iconic Little Italy sign arches over Mulberry Street, welcoming visitors to one of the city’s most famous neighborhoods. This landmark is a favorite photo spot, symbolizing the enduring pride and identity of the Italian-American community. Beneath its glow, the street comes alive with culinary delights and cultural celebrations.

3. Da Gennaro
Known for its Italian seafood, Da Gennaro continues the legacy of the notorious Umberto’s Clam House, where mobster Joey Gallo met his dramatic end in 1972 on his 43^rd birthday. Known for its hearty portions and homemade sauces, it offers a dining experience reminiscent of nonna’s kitchen.

4. Former Andrea Doria Social Club
Once a gathering place for Italian immigrants, the Andrea Doria Social Club at 140 Mulberry Street was a hub for camaraderie and community. At one point associated with figures like John Gotti, the club adds an air of organized crime to the neighborhood’s history. Its name honors the famed Italian ocean liner, evoking memories of transatlantic voyages and a longing for home.

5. Casa D’Angelo
As Little Italy’s oldest Italian restaurant, established in 1902, Casa D’Angelo serves timeless dishes in a historic setting. This historic building captures the essence of Little Italy’s heyday, when the neighborhood was brimming with Italian-owned businesses and bustling activity. Its architectural details, from intricate ironwork to classic brownstone features, whisper stories of a bygone era.

6. Caffé Palermo
Known as the “Cannoli King of Little Italy”, Caffé Palermo has been serving its legendary crisp shell ricotta filled pastries since 1973. Inside, the café is a celebration of Italian hospitality, where friendly staff and colorful decor create a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Furthermore, this café was featured in the TV show The Sopranos, adding a touch of Hollywood to your visit. Just don’t forget to leave a tip, or you might get whacked (just kidding!).

7. Italian American Museum
Housed in the former Banco Stabile building, this museum preserves the history and contributions of Italian-Americans in New York. Its exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that paint a vivid picture of the immigrant experience. From learning about the struggles of early settlers to celebrating their cultural achievements, the museum offers an insightful and inspiring journey.

8. Ferrara Bakery & Café
Established in 1892, Ferrara Bakery is a true icon of Little Italy and one of the oldest Italian bakeries in New York. Known for its espresso, gelato, and an array of decadent pastries, Ferrara is a testament to the neighborhood’s enduring love for sweet indulgence. The bakery’s festive atmosphere, with its classic chandeliers and warm, inviting decor, makes it an essential stop for anyone with a sweet tooth.

9. Di Palo’s Fine Foods
Di Palo’s Fine Foods, a family-owned Italian market, has been a cornerstone of Little Italy since 1925. Known for its artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and imported Italian delicacies, the shop offers an authentic taste of Italy. Generations of the Di Palo family have worked behind the counter, sharing their expertise and passion for food with customers. It’s a must-visit for food lovers seeking the finest ingredients and a warm slice of Italian hospitality.

10. San Gennaro Feast
The San Gennaro Feast is the heart and soul of Little Italy’s cultural calendar, held every September in honor of the patron saint of Naples. Since its inception in 1926, this festival has transformed Mulberry Street into a lively carnival of food, music, and celebration. Stalls line the street with mouthwatering offerings, from sausage and peppers to zeppole, while the parade of the San Gennaro statue through the crowd is a moving tribute to faith and tradition.

11. Mulberry Street Bar
A true slice of old New York, the Mulberry Street Bar has been a neighborhood staple since 1908. Its vintage interior, complete with tin ceilings and a mahogany bar, transports patrons back to a time when it served as a watering hole for Italian immigrants. The bar’s history is steeped in pop culture, having appeared in iconic films like The Godfather Part III and Donnie Brasco.

12. Grotta Azzurra
A Little Italy icon since 1908, Grotta Azzurra boasts a rich history as one of the neighborhood’s most cherished restaurants. Once frequented by the legendary opera singer Enrico Caruso, the restaurant pays homage to its famous guest with memorabilia and photographs that adorn its walls. Named after the stunning Blue Grotto sea cave in Capri, Grotta Azzurra invites diners to immerse themselves in Italian culture, both culinary and artistic.

13. Audrey Hepburn Mural by Tristan Eaton
This stunning mural by artist Tristan Eaton is a modern touch that brings art to the streets of Nolita. Featuring a vibrant, fragmented depiction of Audrey Hepburn, the artwork captures her timeless elegance while incorporating bold, contemporary patterns. It’s a popular spot for photos and a reminder of the creative energy that defines the neighborhood.

14. Caffe Roma
A fan favorite in the neighborhood, Caffe Roma has been serving authentic Italian pastries and coffee since 1891. This old-school café is renowned for its biscotti, sfogliatelle, and espresso, offering a taste of Italy that’s hard to match. It’s owned by the same family who operates the Mulberry Street Bar, adding to the legacy of Mulberry Street.

15. FIGO il Gelato Italiano
FIGO il Gelato Italiano is a must-visit spot in Nolita, serving up authentic gelato that transports your taste buds straight to Italy. Crafted using traditional Italian methods, each scoop is a creamy, flavorful delight. Favorites like pistachio, hazelnut, and tiramisu showcase the shop’s dedication to bold, high-quality ingredients.

16. Big City of Dream Mural by Tristan Eaton
Another masterpiece by Tristan Eaton, the “Big City of Dreams” mural is a bold, colorful tribute to the spirit of New York City. Located on a prominent Nolita wall, the mural incorporates iconic imagery, vibrant patterns, and a sense of movement that captures the city’s energy. It’s a favorite backdrop for photos and a testament to the neighborhood’s role as a canvas for creativity.

17. Old Police Headquarters
Step back in time at the Old Police Headquarters, an imposing structure built in 1909 that once served as the central nerve of the NYPD. This beautiful Beaux-Arts building is not only notable for its architecture but also for its quirky history during Prohibition, when a secret tunnel reportedly connected the headquarters to a nearby bar, allowing officers a discreet escape to enjoy a prohibited tipple.

18. Lt. Petrosino Square
This small but significant park honors Joseph Petrosino, the first Italian-American detective in the NYPD and a pioneer in combating organized crime. Petrosino’s work made him a hero among the local Italian community, and his legacy lives on in this peaceful square. A statue of the detective stands proudly here, commemorating his bravery and contributions to the city.

19. Eileen’s Special Cheesecake
Eileen’s Special Cheesecake is a Nolita institution, serving some of the city’s most beloved cheesecakes since 1975. The bakery is famous for its light, creamy texture and a variety of flavors, from classic New York style to strawberry and dulce de leche. Tucked away on Cleveland Place, this charming shop is a must-visit for dessert lovers, offering a cozy atmosphere and treats that have stood the test of time.

20. NADC Burger
Short for Not a Damn Chance, this Austin-born burger concept is the brainchild of a professional skateboarder and Michelin-starred chef. Their signature creation, the wagyu cheeseburger, drips with rich, buttery flavor and perfectly captures the duo’s mix of high-end craftsmanship and street-style swagger. Diners can go Beast Mode-style by topping their crispy fries with diced jalapeños, pickles, and steak spices, or indulge in New York exclusives like brown butter cookies and decadent milkshakes.

21. Bootleggers Corner
Bootleggers Corner is steeped in Prohibition-era history, once a hotspot for speakeasies and underground liquor trade. Located at the intersection of Spring and Mulberry Streets, the area was a notorious hub for mob activity during the 1920s. Today, its historic streets and buildings whisper stories of a time when secrecy and intrigue defined the neighborhood’s nightlife.

22. Softside
Softside is a delightful ice cream shop that has quickly won over the hearts of locals and visitors alike. This charming spot is known for its inventive soft serve flavors, such as olive oil, Oreo, and strawberry shortcake, which put a creative twist on the classic treat. Whether you’re indulging in a perfectly swirled cone, a rich milkshake, or a decadent sundae, Softside delivers a playful and delicious dessert experience.

23. Rubirosa
This family-run Italian-American restaurant is a beloved spot in Nolita, for its tie-dye pizza, a unique blend of vodka, tomato, and pesto sauces with mozzarella. Rubirosa’s roots trace back to Staten Island, where the family’s original pizzeria was established decades ago. The cozy, rustic decor and warm service create a welcoming ambiance, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

24. Ravenite Social Club (Former HQ of Gambino Crime Family)
The Ravenite Social Club is infamous for its ties to the Gambino crime family, once serving as the headquarters for mob boss John Gotti. Located on Mulberry Street, the club became a focal point of FBI surveillance in the 1980s and ‘90s. Though the club has long since closed, its history remains a fascinating, if chilling, part of Little Italy’s past.

25. The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral
A majestic presence in Nolita, the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Completed in 1815, it was the first Roman Catholic cathedral in New York and remains a vital part of the community. Beneath the church lies a historic catacomb, open for tours that reveal a hidden side of New York history. The basilica has also appeared in films like The Godfather and Mean Streets, cementing its place in pop culture.

26. Little Cupcake Bakeshop
This charming bakery offers an array of decadent cupcakes, cookies, and cakes, all made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients. Little Cupcake Bakeshop has a warm, retro vibe, complete with pastel-colored decor and friendly service. Signature treats like the Brooklyn Blackout cake and the Blue Velvet cupcake are crowd-pleasers, making it a perfect spot to indulge your sweet tooth.

27. Prince Street Pizza
Prince Street Pizza is a Nolita landmark, famous for its signature Spicy Spring slice. This small pizzeria consistently draws long lines, with visitors eager to sample its perfectly crisp pepperoni cups and rich tomato sauce. The shop’s walls are adorned with photos of celebrities who’ve stopped by, adding to its legendary status. Whether you grab a slice to-go or savor it at the counter, it’s a quintessential New York experience.

28. Elizabeth Street Garden
A tranquil escape in the midst of bustling Nolita, Elizabeth Street Garden is a hidden gem filled with sculptures, lush greenery, and a sense of serenity. This community space is beloved by locals for its charm and tranquility, hosting events like yoga classes and art exhibitions. The garden is a reminder of the importance of green spaces in urban neighborhoods, offering a moment of peace in the city that never sleeps.

29. Lombardi’s Pizza
Credited as America’s first pizzeria, Lombardi’s has been serving its iconic coal-fired pies since 1905. This historic eatery is where New York’s love affair with pizza began, and it remains a cornerstone of the city’s culinary scene. While the pizza may not be considered the best New York can offer, it is a slice of history!

30. Thai Diner
Thai Diner infuses the vibrancy of Bangkok’s street food scene into the heart of Little Italy. This cozy diner blends traditional Thai flavors with American diner classics, creating a unique culinary experience. Favorites like Thai tea babka French toast and Thai disco fries showcase the innovative, cross-cultural menu. The vibrant, eclectic decor, complete with neon lights and plush booths, sets a playful backdrop to the excellent meal.

31. Ceres
This stylish newcomer to Little Italy brings serious pedigree to the pizza scene. Ceres was founded by two Eleven Madison Park alums, and it shows. They sadly stopped selling slices, and the $63 Nduja pie could spark debate, but one bite will convince even the skeptics. With a crisp, ultra-thin crust and beautifully balanced toppings, this is pizza elevated to an art form. Ceres is redefining what a pizza joint can be. Think fine dining in a foldable triangle.

32. FDNY Engine 55
End your tour at FDNY Engine 55, that stands as a symbol of courage and community in the heart of Little Italy. Established in 1899, this historic firehouse is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, with its red-brick facade and intricate detailing. Notably, it was one of the first firehouses to respond during the 9/11 attacks, solidifying its place as a beacon of bravery in New York City’s history.