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For those yearning for an authentic Italian experience without hopping on a plane, Arthur Avenue in the Bronx stands as New York City’s true Little Italy. While other areas may claim the title, Arthur Avenue retains the vibrant sights, sounds, and, most importantly, the tantalizing smells of a genuine Italian neighborhood. During a time when international travel was restricted, a trip to Arthur Avenue became a delicious escape, a culinary journey to Italy right in the heart of the Bronx. This guide is crafted for Italian food enthusiasts eager to explore the best that Arthur Avenue restaurants and food shops have to offer.
Sadly, like many beloved establishments, Arthur Avenue has seen some closures, including Cafe al Mercato and MangiPasta. However, the enduring spirit of this century-old neighborhood shines brightly through the multitude of thriving businesses. Even during challenging times, Arthur Avenue bustles with life, inviting visitors to indulge in an authentic Italian food adventure. So, loosen your belts and prepare your palate for an immersive exploration of the best Italian culinary treasures Arthur Avenue has in store.
Italian Food Lovers Guide to Bronx’s Arthur Avenue Addeo Bakery
Top Bakeries for Bread on Arthur Avenue, Bronx
Arthur Avenue’s bakeries are legendary, each offering unique takes on Italian bread-making traditions. The aroma of freshly baked bread alone is enough to transport you to a charming Italian village.
Terranova (691 E 187th St): A cornerstone of Arthur Avenue for over 50 years, Terranova brings the heart of Sicilian baking to the Bronx. Founded by a Sicilian immigrant, this bakery is renowned for its exceptional olive bread and focaccia. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, offering insights into their daily specials and local tips. Don’t leave without a bag of their taralli, a delightful savory snack from Puglia, adding a taste of Southern Italy to your Bronx food tour.
Addeo & Sons (2372 Hughes Ave): With a legacy spanning over three generations and 80 years, Addeo & Sons is a testament to family tradition and quality. They specialize in simple yet perfect pane di casa (house bread) and wholesome whole wheat semolina. Their sesame seed-covered breadsticks are irresistibly crunchy and make for a wonderful snack as you explore Arthur Avenue. For homemade pizza nights, their fresh pizza dough is a must-buy, promising an authentic base for your culinary creations.
Madonia Brothers (2348 Arthur Ave): While Madonia Brothers also boasts a tempting array of olive bread and pane di casa, their cannoli are the true stars of the show. They understand the cardinal rule of cannoli: freshness is key. Each cannoli is filled to order, ensuring perfectly crisp shells and a divinely creamy, sweet filling. For cannoli connoisseurs, Madonia Brothers offers what many consider to be the best cannoli in the entire neighborhood – a claim well worth experiencing for yourself.
Italian Food Lovers Guide to Bronx’s Arthur Avenue Ginos Pastry Shop
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Indulge in Sweetness: Best Pastry Shops on Arthur Avenue, Bronx
No Italian food tour is complete without indulging in exquisite pastries, and Arthur Avenue’s pastry shops, or pasticcerie, are veritable treasure troves of sweet delights.
Gino’s (580 E 187th St): A second-generation, no-frills establishment, Gino’s exudes a charmingly relaxed atmosphere. While their operating hours might seem a bit flexible, the quality of their pastries is undeniable. Owners Jerome and Joanne are known for their warm hospitality, making every customer feel welcome. Their cannoli, available in pistachio and chocolate chip, and sfogliatelle are highly recommended. For an extra treat, try to snag a bomboloni if you spot one. Joanne’s cappuccino is also a perfect complement to their sweet offerings. Calling ahead to check if the sfogliatelle are fresh out of the oven is a pro-tip for maximizing your pastry experience.
Egidio (622 E 187th St): Claiming the title of the oldest pastry shop in the neighborhood, founded in 1912, Egidio offers a step back in time with its classic interior. The pink-hued decor, original tin ceiling, and vintage espresso machine create a nostalgic ambiance. This Southern Italian-rooted shop boasts a tempting selection of traditional Italian cookies, including rainbow cookies, pignoli, regina, and biscotti, alongside beautiful cakes and mini pastries. For those watching their sugar intake, they also offer a sugar-free range. While their cookie selection is extensive, it’s best to perhaps explore sfogliatelle elsewhere based on local recommendations.
DeLillo (610 E 187th St): Another family-owned pasticceria, DeLillo, established nearly a century ago by Calabrian brothers, is the quintessential spot for an authentic Italian café experience. The ambiance is slightly more modern than some of its counterparts, yet still retains a classic Italian charm. DeLillo offers an even wider array of traditional Italian cookies, including cucidati and amaretti, and treats like baba au rum, napoleons, and lobster tails. Their tiramisu is a standout dessert, perfectly paired with a cappuccino to be enjoyed on their inviting outdoor terrace – ideal for people-watching and soaking in the Arthur Avenue atmosphere, just like in Italy. Don’t miss their homemade gelato for a refreshing finish.
Italian Food Lovers Guide to Bronx’s Arthur Avenue tiramisu
Italian Food Lovers Guide to Bronx
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Cheese and Charcuterie Delights: Must-Visit Shops on Arthur Avenue
For cheese and cured meat lovers, Arthur Avenue is a paradise. These shops offer an incredible selection of Italian specialties, perfect for creating a memorable antipasto platter or stocking your pantry with authentic ingredients.
Calandria Cheese (2314 Arthur Ave): Calandria Cheese is a haven for cheese enthusiasts. They generously offer daily samples of 10-12 different cheeses, encouraging customers to taste and ask questions. Their house-made Calabrese cheese is a must-try for spice lovers. If available, their fresh ricotta is exceptionally light and creamy, a true testament to quality and freshness.
Casa della Mozzarella (604 E 187th St): As the name suggests, Casa della Mozzarella is dedicated to fresh mozzarella, crafted in a variety of shapes and sizes. Portions are remarkably generous – even a small ball can be quite substantial. The shop itself is tiny and often crowded, so weekday visits or off-peak hours are recommended. Calling ahead for pickup is a smart move to avoid lines. Burrata aficionados will be delighted by their rendition, which rivals some of the best found in Puglia, known for its exceptional burrata.
Calabria Pork Store (2334 Arthur Ave): Aptly nicknamed “hog heaven,” Calabria Pork Store is an immersive experience for meat lovers. The aroma of cured meats is intense, and the “meat chandelier” hanging overhead is a sight to behold. They specialize in house-made dried sausages, offering a wide range of soppressata (hot, sweet, spicy, and extra hot), prosciutto, and the rare culatello (though it may be out of stock). For those who enjoy fiery flavors, don’t miss the ‘nduja, a spreadable Calabrian sausage. Vegetarians and vegans might want to proceed with caution, as this is a carnivore’s paradise.
Cosenzas Fish market
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Fresh Seafood Markets: Ocean’s Bounty on Arthur Avenue
Seafood lovers will rejoice at Arthur Avenue’s fresh fish markets, offering a taste of the sea in the heart of the Bronx.
Cosenza’s Fish Market (2354 Arthur Ave): Cosenza’s Fish Market is a seafood haven with a walk-up stall where you can savor ice-cold oysters and clams right on the street. Prices are incredibly reasonable, and the selection is diverse. Beyond the standard littleneck clams and bluepoint oysters, you can find more unique varieties like kumamoto, wellfleet, and the delicate beausoleil oysters. For early risers, they open early, perfect for a raw seafood breakfast.
Randazzo’s Seafood (2327 Arthur Ave): A third-generation fish market with an 80-year history, Randazzo’s Seafood was founded by a Sicilian immigrant fisherman, reflecting the neighborhood’s strong Italian heritage. They offer daily sourced clams and oysters, along with sea urchin, salt cod, and squid for those looking to recreate Mediterranean seafood dishes at home. They provide complimentary fish cleaning, descaling, and filleting services while you wait, ensuring you have perfectly prepared seafood for your culinary endeavors.
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Italian Food Lovers Guide to Bronx
Savoring Authentic Flavors: Best Restaurants on Arthur Avenue, Bronx
Arthur Avenue restaurants offer a spectrum of Italian-American dining experiences, from classic red sauce joints to more modern trattorias.
Dominicks (2335 Arthur Ave): For classic Italian-American comfort food, Dominicks is a must-visit. Expect generous, family-style portions of dishes like pasta with red sauce, lasagna, and chicken parm. It’s an ideal spot for large groups and those with hearty appetites. Their stuffed artichokes are a particularly noteworthy dish.
Tra Di Noi (622 E 187th St): Meaning “between us,” Tra Di Noi offers a warm and welcoming trattoria experience. The decor is simple and homey, focusing the attention on the food. Their menu leans towards seafood, featuring linguine vongole, clams oregenato, shrimp fra diavolo, and branzino. Daily specials add variety, and you’ll also find Roman classics like rigatoni all’amatriciana, carbonara, and tripe, reflecting the chef’s heritage. They also source their fresh pasta locally from Borgatti’s, just a few doors away, emphasizing community and fresh ingredients.
Zero Otto Nove (2357 Arthur Ave): For a more contemporary and stylish Italian dining experience, Zero Otto Nove is an excellent choice. Their wood-fired margherita pizza, made with San Marzano tomatoes, boasts a perfectly charred and chewy crust. The garlicky broccoli rabe is expertly sautéed, avoiding bitterness or excessive oiliness. Their wine list is Italian-focused and impressive, but they also craft excellent Negronis and Aperol Spritz. The ambiance and cuisine evoke a genuine Italian lunch experience, thanks to the Salerno-born chef/owner’s dedication to authentic flavors.
Italian Food Lovers Guide to Bronx
Quick Bites and Snacks: Casual Eateries on Arthur Avenue
Sometimes, a quick bite or a light snack is all you need while exploring Arthur Avenue. These casual spots offer perfect options for a quick refuel.
Piattini (2363 Arthur Avenue): A newer addition to Arthur Avenue, Piattini, meaning “little plates” in Italian, is a charming café, bar, and osteria. It’s perfect for a strong espresso, a glass of wine, a small plate, or a generous charcuterie board. They also offer salads and pasta for something more substantial. Prices are very reasonable for the area. The Calabrian owners are known for their friendly conversation about Italy, making it a great place to relax and people-watch while enjoying a refreshing Aperol Spritz. They are also expanding, so expect exciting new developments in the future.
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Gourmet Gifts and Italian Imports: Coffee, Wine & More on Arthur Avenue
Arthur Avenue is not just about immediate consumption; it’s also a fantastic place to find gourmet Italian gifts and stock up on imported ingredients.
Cerini Coffee & Gifts (2334 Arthur Ave): Cerini Coffee & Gifts is a coffee lover’s paradise. They offer an impressive selection of whole bean espresso, coffee cups, and plates, alongside a curated collection of Italian food gifts like pasta, cookies, truffles, and taralli. They also sell espresso machines and offer repair services. The female owners are known for their cheerful demeanor and are happy to converse in Italian, adding to the authentic atmosphere.
Tino’s Delicatessan (2410 Arthur Ave): While Tino’s Delicatessan makes excellent sandwiches, it’s also a treasure trove of gourmet Italian food items. They stock high-quality olive oils, truffle products, and traditional balsamic vinegar from Italy (some so prized they are kept under lock and key). For dried pasta, seek out Rustichella d’Abruzzo, a top-tier Italian artisan brand, of which Tino’s has an exceptional assortment.
Borgatti’s (632 East 187th St): Borgatti’s has been crafting fresh egg pasta noodles for over 80 years, cut to order in any thickness you desire. Their fresh and frozen house-made ravioli, with fillings ranging from cheese to spinach, mushroom, and pumpkin, are also highly recommended and incredibly affordable.
Teitel Brothers (2372 Arthur Ave): Teitel Brothers is a family-owned wholesaler that has been supplying restaurants and retailers for over a century. Their store is packed floor-to-ceiling with almost every imaginable imported Italian food product. Highlights include aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, Sicilian oregano, real pine nuts, large tins of authentic olive oil from Tuscany and Sicily, and torrone cut to order from a giant block. Be prepared for a bustling, loud, and slightly chaotic shopping experience – it’s part of the charm. Come with a list and know what you want to make the most of it. They also offer online ordering for convenience.
Arthur Cantina (2380 Arthur Ave): Arthur Cantina is the premier wine shop in the area, offering a curated selection of Italian wines and a knowledgeable, friendly staff. Anthony, in particular, is known for his excellent recommendations and advice. They boast an impressive amaro selection, affordable prices, and free local delivery. Weekend and Wednesday evening tastings are a bonus.
If you are planning a trip to New York City and crave an authentic Italian culinary experience, Arthur Avenue is an absolute must-visit. Use this guide to navigate its delicious offerings, or consider a personalized foodie adventure for a more tailored exploration.
