Quick Links

Every traveler's must-see list includes Little Italy because of its genuine pasta meals, which are offered by the top Italian restaurants, and its romantic, old-New York ambiance. In the 1880s, immigrants from Naples and Sicily flooded the region, creating the once-Italian neighborhood that now stretches from Canal to Houston Streets, between Lafayette Street and the Bowery. The majority of it is now concentrated in the blocks surrounding Mulberry Street, which also happens to be home to some of New York City's hottest boutiques and bars, but what is left is still going strong. Mulberry Street is regarded as Little Italy's beating heart. It is the perfect spot to unwind, eat delicious food, and people-watch because it is lined with eateries and cafés that provide outdoor seating. Here is what you can do there.

Mulberry Street
Via Shutterstock
Mulberry Street sign

Related: NoLita, New York City: What This Italian Hub Is Known For

Wander Through Mulberry Street

Mulberry Street, Little Italy's primary thoroughfare since the early 20th century, is also maybe its most pleasant, laid-back area, drawing tourists from all over the city. The street, which is lined with cafés, street stalls, social clubs, and numerous Italian fast-food and snack vendors, comes alive at night when the lights are turned on, and restaurant owners display their menu specials to onlookers.

Little Italy
Via Shutterstock
People wandering through Little Italy Street

Visit Movie Sets At Mulberry Street Bar

The Mulberry Street Bar, which is located on the fringe of the main strip of cafés and restaurants, is not the typical watering spot. The tavern, which has been open since 1908, has hosted several actors, mob bosses, and actors portraying mob bosses. The setting for various movies, including Contract on Cherry Street, Donnie Brasco, and Godfather III, as well as sequences from The Sopranos and Law & Order, is a favorite in Hollywood. The bar's interior has not altered much since it first opened, and the pressed tin ceiling and dark wood walls give it a mafia vibe. The Four Tops, Elvis, and Sinatra may all be found on the jukebox. It is still a bar, so tourists can grab a Peroni and unwind.

  • Mulberry Street Bar opening time: It is open from 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM on weekends
Bar
Via Shutterstock
Mulberry Street Bar

Sip A Coffee And Indulge In Exceptional Desserts

Caffé Roma, which has been operating at the same location since 1891, is well worth visiting for its charming old-fashioned decor alone; their coffees and authentic Italian pastries, like tiramisu, cannoli, and ricotta cheesecake, are also delicious and worth the calories. When tourists finish their desserts, the café does not seem to want to send their guests away either. It is recommended to grab a table beside the window is still available.

  • Opening Schedule: Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, it opens till midnight.

Moreover, tourists shall not miss Ferrara Bakery & Café if they want to satisfy their sweet tooth and learn a little about Little Italy's history at the same time. Everyone can find something to enjoy there with their coffee or to take home and enjoy later. Its opening schedule is similar to Caffé Roma.

Italian Restaurants
Via Shutterstock
People enjoying food in Italian restaurants at Mulberry Street

Related: Think Italian Food Can't Get Any Better? Try Italian Street Food

See One Of The Most Iconic Graffiti On Mulberry Street

Every neighborhood has a distinct atmosphere and culture. The best street art may be found in New York City, and Little Italy is renowned for its excellent concealed graffiti. At 176 Mulberry St., one of the most well-known buildings in the city, an Audrey Hepburn mural may be seen. There are a ton more wonderful places to appreciate and take pictures of.

Graffiti
Via Shutterstock
Audrey Hepburn's graffiti

Shop At Mulberry Street

Several fantastic vintage shops offer distinctive clothing and accessories. Mulberry Street is an excellent place to go shopping. Creatures of Comfort is a Los Angeles-based retailer that has a branch at Mulberry Street that carries both pricey and reasonably priced contemporary clothing. Christian Siriano is another trademark in the area. This American designer built his boutique in the exclusive neighborhood after winning the fourth season of Project Runway. The line includes fashionable evening clothing as well as more affordable, creative streetwear and fashionable accessories. Tourists can discover and shop elegant necklaces, silk tops, and attractive patterned scarves here, all surrounded by marble stones and other accessories.

Mulberry Shopping Center
Via Shutterstock
The shop windows of Mulberry Shopping Center

Celebrate Festa Di San Gennaro On Mulberry Street

The Feast of San Gennaro is a religious festival honoring the patron saint of Naples, Italy, but it is also noted for its joyous atmosphere, mouthwatering fare, and eye-catching processions. Little Italy is transformed into a patriotic celebration for 11 days, complete with special guests, live music, and a cannoli-eating competition. Since 1926, the smell of fried dough and smokey sausage and pepper Sandos has filled Mulberry Street's air in celebration of the patron saint of Naples. Over a million people visit to promenade the strip of vendors and taste the crispy cannoli and zeppole that are typical of Italy. The feast's revelers are skilled at throwing a party while holding food, thanks to nearly a century of practice. There is no event complete without a parade, and the Grand Procession is a fantastic one. The parade includes marching bands, floats, spectators, and, most significantly, the San Gennaro statue.

  • Dates: September 15 to 25, 2023
The Feast of San Gennaro
Via Shutterstock
The parade of the feast of San Gennaro