In the early 1900s, thousands of Italian immigrants settled in Lower Manhattan, transforming Mulberry Street into a bustling Italian quarter. An affordable place to live and set up shop, Little Italy fostered a strong Italian-American community. Though the neighborhood has shrunk over the decades, Little Italy remains a symbol of immigration and cultural melding.
Rich with decades of tradition, the neighborhood is now the go-to place for famous Italian eateries like Lombardi’s, Ferrara Bakery, Umberto’s Clam House, Da Gennaro, and Ballato’s.
Lombardi’s Pizza | 32 Spring St.
Lombardi’s Pizza is America’s first licensed pizzeria, opened in 1905 by Neapolitan immigrant Gennaro Lombardi. Lombardi’s bakes pizzas in a coal-fired oven, arriving quickly with just the right amount of char. Toppings are delicious and cheese-melted to perfection. Favorites include Grandma’s Meatballs pizza and Pancetta, Ricotta, Spinach white pie. Many famous pizza makers learned their craft here.
Ferrara Bakery & Cafe | 195 Grand St.
Ferrara Bakery & Cafe has been perfecting pastries, cakes, and sweets since 1892 when they opened after the Ferrara family emigrated from Italy. Do yourself a favor and get the cannolis; the tricolor cookies are also a must. Espresso and biscotti make a perfect pairing. Their Italian fare is crafted from old family recipes with fresh ingredients and an eye towards presentation.
Umberto’s Clam House | 132 Mulberry St.
Umberto’s Clam House has satisfied seafood cravings since opening in 1972. Their thin and crispy clam pizza hits the spot with tender clams, mozzarella, and a hint of garlic. Enjoy it with a Peroni beer for an authentic Italian experience.
Umberto’s is a Mulberry Street legend. It became known for its seafood dishes, but also gained notoriety for being the site of the murder of mobster Joe Gallo. Even though the restaurant has moved, the tourists still flock. The clam house even earned a mention on HBO’s The Sopranos.
Da Gennaro | 129 Mulberry St.
Da Gennaro sticks to traditional recipes and hospitality, providing a taste of old-world Little Italy. Their penne vodka and margherita pizza match the charming ambiance of red booths and brick walls. The staff aim to make you feel like family with friendly service and smiles.
Emilio’s Ballato | 55 E Houston St.
Emilio’s Ballato has been dishing out soulful Southern Italian fare since 1956 in an old school setting with checkered tablecloths and wine bottles lining the walls. Their chicken parm and famous bread transport tastebuds to Southern Italy.
Contact us to book a tour of condos at One Manhattan Square and be near the immersive Italian cultural experience.