Italy in New York? 5 recommended places to visit in Manhattan’s Little Italy!

Little Italy is located along Mulberry Street on Manhattan Island. It’s a small area of just three blocks, but it’s one of New York’s iconic immigrant neighborhoods. It’s filled with the atmosphere of Italy, featuring America’s oldest cheese shop, Italian grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants. Since it connects to Chinatown across Canal Street, you can also enjoy a food walk. Here, we’ll introduce some recommended spots in Manhattan’s Little Italy.

1. Di Palo

Di Palo is an Italian grocery store located in Manhattan’s Little Italy. It’s a family-run business that has been passed down for four generations since 1925. Both staff and customers have been part of this generational transition. The shop still uses a traditional counter service system: you take a number at the entrance, wait your turn, and consult with the staff while shopping—just like traditional butchers or greengrocers. It takes time, but the interaction with the staff makes for a warm and enjoyable experience.

As you’ll see from the storefront, the cheese is especially famous and popular. In addition, you can find a wide variety of products like salami, olive oil, pasta, bread, and more. The sandwiches are also well-reviewed, so give them a try when you’re a bit hungry or during lunch.

2. Feast of San Gennaro

The Feast of San Gennaro is the largest festival held in Manhattan’s Little Italy. It takes place over ten days in mid-September every year. Stalls line Mulberry Street selling sausages, zeppole (fried dough), Italian sweets, and more. After a Mass at the Catholic church, a parade is held featuring a statue of San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples.

This is the most exciting event in Little Italy, so if you happen to be in New York during this time, be sure to check out this vibrant celebration.

3. Benito One

Benito One is a popular restaurant in Manhattan’s Little Italy. Founded in 1968, it’s a well-established Italian restaurant. It began with just five tables in a small shop and has since become a beloved local spot.

Though it’s a small restaurant on Mulberry Street, you can enjoy traditional Italian cuisine. Spaghetti in tomato sauce and lobster ravioli are among the favorites. A notable feature is the availability of gluten-free pasta. In the U.S., gluten-free options are essential, so this is a welcome option for those with dietary needs. If you’re in Manhattan’s Little Italy, why not try some classic Italian dishes?

4. Il Cortile

Il Cortile is a traditional Northern Italian restaurant in Manhattan. The bright interior includes a garden terrace filled with greenery, which is highly recommended.

A standout dish is the seafood linguine, a soup-style spaghetti packed with seafood, reminiscent of bouillabaisse. The risotto is also praised, and the Italian wine selection enhances the dining experience. A lunch menu is available, and the restaurant has many regular customers. Since it gets crowded on weekend evenings, reservations are a must.

5. Lombardi’s Pizza

Lombardi’s Pizza is a famous original American pizza place in Manhattan’s Little Italy. Unlike Italian-style pizza, it’s baked in a coal oven instead of a kiln, giving it a unique flavor. Even the small size is very filling—one pizza is enough for two people.

The staff are very friendly, and it’s a place you’ll want to visit again and again. Since it’s always busy, it’s best to avoid peak hours. Look for the large Mona Lisa mural on the exterior wall.

◎ Summary

Manhattan’s Little Italy is a small area, and recently it’s been somewhat overshadowed by neighboring Chinatown. Still, the area is lined with traditional grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants, creating a nostalgic and charming atmosphere. If you’re in New York, be sure to visit Little Italy to experience uniquely American-developed Italian cuisine.

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Italy in New York? 5 recommended places to visit in Manhattan’s Little Italy!