The Best Little Italy Neighborhoods In America

Growing up in an Italian-American family from New York, pasta and sauce for Sunday dinner was ingrained in my blood. "Waddya mean you ate already? Mangia!" While I never met my ancestors who hailed from the motherland, my family was always hunting for that perfect bite of spaghetti just like my great-grandma used to make. Luckily, for those who can't hop on a plane to Italy to try the "real" thing, those in the United States don't have far to go. Between 1880 and 1920, the United States saw a huge influx of Italian immigrants, and with this migration came the desire to create a place that felt like home — a place where Italians could gather to preserve and celebrate their culture. There are now several "Little Italy" neighborhoods across the country, particularly on the East Coast.

new immigrants created these unifying spaces where the sites and smells of the old country came to life. Italian markets became social halls for the locals to spend the day chatting, sipping espressos, and playing chess in the plaza. Unfortunately, for many of these community members, what began as places built for immigrants to connect has slowly become commercialized. Thanks to the likes of "The Godfather" and "The Sopranos," Italian subculture has entered the mainstream — transforming Little Italy neighborhoods from cultural safe havens for Nonna to hang her laundry into Italian Disneyland. ("Leave the gun, take the cannoli" anyone?) 

That's not to say, however, that Little Italys don't have their charm. Today, these neighborhoods provide a unique destination filled with sites, smells, and tastes typically reserved for visitors to the old country. People can still enjoy a slice of pizza and reminisce about the "good old days." For those looking to do as the Romans do, here are the top Little Italy neighborhoods to visit across the USA.

Topping off the list is probably the first place that comes to mind when you think of quintessential Little Italy: New York City. Sadly, the location of the original neighborhood has significantly dwindled through the years. What started as a sprawling 50-block enclave has now been reduced to just a few streets. However, that doesn't stop the neighborhood from having its original old-world charm. If you do nothing else on a visit to this piece of history, pull up a chair at Lombardi's or Angelo's of Mulberry Street — two of the oldest restaurants in New York's Little Italy. 

For some tasty treats to take on your next picnic, check out Di Palo's Fine Foods, a Little Italy staple selling Italian imported wines, cheese, meats, and antipasti. Wash it all down with a cannoli from Caffe Palermo or Caffe Roma, both Little Italy staples with delectable pastries. One event that can't be missed in the neighborhood is September's Feast of San Gennaro, an 11-day event celebrating the Patron Saint of Naples. Visitors from all over come to enjoy live music, parades, and most importantly — lots and lots of mouthwatering food.

Although the area surrounding Mulberry Street is seen by many as the one and only Little Italy of New York, some would disagree. Over in the Bronx, Arthur Avenue is said to be the place to go for authentic Italian culture and cuisine. The area is home to many authentic spots serving up drool-worthy delicacies. Check out Borgatti's for some delicious homemade pasta at a third-generation family-run pasta shop with ravioli that would make Nonna proud. For some delicious sandwiches, head over to Mike's Deli, a great place to explore in the Arthur Avenue Market.

Coming in second is a place that most wouldn't associate with a bustling Italian population, however, in the 1920s, more than 6,000 Italian families called this neighborhood of sunny San Diego home. Once home to a large tuna industry, Italian fishermen flocked to the area to be a part of the booming trade. Although the neighborhood has since gone through many changes, today,  San Diego's Little Italy still represents a small part of Italian culture. Today, it stands as the United States' largest Little Italy neighborhood — with blocks of delicious eateries, a huge farmers market held every Saturday, and unique bars enticing visitors from around the world. There is even a 10,000-square-foot plaza replicating an Italian-style piazza, where families gather to take an evening stroll and enjoy some gelato.

For an authentic Italian-American feel, head to Mona Lisa Italian Foods, a popular spot with imported deli items in the front and a restaurant in the back. Another great place for Italian-American fare is Filipi's Pizza Grotto, serving large portions in an old-school atmosphere. Head to Isola Pizza Bar for some fresh pizzas like Nonna used to make, or to Civico 1845 for some scrumptious fusilli alla norma and Italian-style cocktails. Aside from being the largest Little Italy in the U.S. (and one with tons of other Italian restaurants), the area is also renowned for its establishments that were created by alums of the hit Bravo show "Top Chef." Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood, a great locale for wood-fired dishes, while Richard Blais mans Juniper & Ivy and Crack Shack. The neighborhood is also home to two Bib Gourmand award-winning restaurants: Morning Glory and Kettner Exchange.

Ask any Boston local to point you in the direction of "Little Italy" and they'll most likely look at you quizzically. Ask them where the North End is, however, and they'll gladly show you the way to Boston's unofficial Little Italy neighborhood filled with great Italian-American cuisine. 1920 saw a huge influx of Italian immigrants moved to this corner of Boston — creating an atmosphere of culture and great cuisine. The area is now home to many stunning historic buildings, making for a fun afternoon of sightseeing and pizza eating. 

Speaking of pizza, for some of the most drool-worthy pies, head to Regina Pizzeria, a neighborhood icon serving up delicious dishes to patrons since 1926. There's usually a line, but according to Tripadvisor reviews, it's well worth the wait. For some scrumptious southern Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizza Napoletana, head to Antico Forno — a spot with a perfect mix of the old country and Boston charm. If you're looking for some quick Italian cuisine you can take on the go, try Bricco Salumeria & Pasta Shop, a deli renowned for its fresh ready-to-eat pasta and sandwiches. After stuffing yourself with pizza, it's time for dessert! Both Mike's Pastry and Modern Pastry are fabulous locales to try delicious Italian pastries. Of course, after dessert you'll want to sip on an authentic Italian coffee, so try Caffe Vittoria, the first Italian cafe in Boston. Looking to eat great food while you party? Plan your visit to the North End in August for St. Anthony's Feast — an Italian Catholic celebration with parades, live music, and of course, delicious food. 

The next spot on your American-Italian tour leads to another perhaps unexpected location: Providence, Rhode Island. Since the early 1900s, historic Federal Hill has been a bustling community for Italian immigrants. Like many piazzas in Italy, locals and tourists alike gather around the DePasquale Plaza fountain sipping coffee and exchanging pleasantries. The area, although having gone through changes, remains a historic and cultural testament to the Italian immigrants who once called this neighborhood home. 

For a taste of Italy in a casual setting, Federal Hill has a few options to choose from. Start your visit at one of the specialty shops like Roma, a great marketplace known for their sandwiches, pizza, pastries, and dried goods. Tony's Colonial Foods and Venda Ravioli are also great finds offering up selections of imported goods and lunch options. A Federal Hill institution since 1924, Angelo's Civita Farnese serves affordable and delicious fares in an old-school setting. Pay a visit to Il Massimo for some delicious, seasonal Italian cuisine, featuring signature favorites like spaghettoni alla carbonara or Point Judith calamari en padella. Pair the evening out with a robust Italian red from Pane e Vino — a restaurant serving up delicious cuisine and an all-Italy-based wine menu. End the evening with a visit to Scialo Brothers Bakery, another Federal Hill staple delighting patrons since 1916, for some delectable Italian pastries.

Get your napkins ready, because next on the list is a Philadelphia neighborhood renowned for its delicious Italian cuisine. Bella Vista, which translates to "beautiful sight" is a bustling neighborhood that was once home to many Italian immigrants. Their cultural influence can be seen in the most prominent feature in the neighborhood — the 9th Street Italian Market — the oldest open-air market in the U.S. Visitors can enjoy perusing the huge market for fresh produce, bakeries, meats, cheeses, and more. Join the festivities in May as the market hosts its annual festival, a two-day event with food and craft vendors, live music, games, contests, and more. 

Searching for a bite of pasta in a historic setting? Look no further than the oldest Italian restaurant in the U.S., Ralph's. A Philly staple since 1900, this Italian joint has been serving up classics like chicken parmigiana to patrons as famous to the Italian-American community as Frank Sinatra himself. According to Tripadvisor, patrons should definitely try the veal. For some mouthwatering Italian fare you can take on the go, head over to Angelo's Pizzeria, offering delicious pizza and sandwiches (like the classic Philly cheese steak). If visiting the 9th Street Market wasn't enough to satisfy your market cravings, head to Di Bruno Bros. With so many cheeses to choose from, you'll be in formaggio heaven. For some good old-fashioned home-cooked bread to pair with your meats and cheeses, look no further than Sarcone's Bakery — a Philly staple that opened in 1918.

Another unofficial Little Italy sits along the streets of Chicago's University Village; a must-visit neighborhood for culture seekers in the U.S. This part of Chicago is great for those who not only want to stuff their faces with pizza but also those looking to explore some Italian landmarks and historical buildings. The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii has remained a testament to the Italian-American community of this neighborhood and the Catholic faith since its construction in 1924. The Notre Dame de Chicago is another beautiful historical Catholic church that has graced the neighborhood with its presence since 1892. For some sports history, head to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, honoring legends like Rocky Marciano and Tommy Lasorda.

To enjoy some authentic Italian cuisine, head to Taylor Street, where you'll find family-owned restaurants, delis, and bakeries. Conte Di Savoia has been a neighborhood staple since 1948, offering deli items in an old-world setting. Featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" with Guy Fieri and a winner of a James Beard Award, Tufano's Vernon Park Tap is another neighborhood classic serving up delicious Italian-American fares. Stop by The Rosebud Restaurant for delicious food and a charming atmosphere. The neighborhood also has a few places to satisfy your sweet tooth, because what Italian doesn't love a good pastry? Scafuri Bakery and Ferrara Bakery are both delightful locales serving up classic Italian baked goods. After grabbing a pastry, head to Cafe L'Appetito — a fabulous spot to sip on a cappuccino and watch the world go by. If coffee isn't your drink of choice, Mario's Italian Lemonade stand has been a neighborhood classic for years, delivering some of the best Italian ice around.

Last on the list takes travelers to a tight-knit community where generations of families have worked and lived since the 1800s. Baltimore's historically Italian neighborhood, just a few blocks from the Inner Harbor, has continuously delighted visitors with its delicious family-owned restaurants, bakeries, and exciting food festivals. The area is even home to a few bocce ball courts — where you can find the locals gathered during the warmer months, cheering on the local leagues. 

Now on to the good stuff- the food! The neighborhood is home to more than 20 restaurants serving up delicious Italian cuisine. For an upscale Italian dining experience with a modern twist, try Costeria, which serves fluffy homemade focaccia bread, pasta dishes, and more. For something more old-school, head to Sabatino's, serving customers delicious Central and Southern Italian cuisine, and has been voted People's Choice for Best Italian Restaurant for 24 years. Cafe Gia is another great space that has been in the family for years. With hand-painted murals and delicious Sicilian dishes, you'll feel like you're dining in the heart of Italy. For something to satisfy your sweet tooth — Vaccaro's Italian Pastry has been delighting visitors with its traditional cannolis, gelato, and Italian cookies since 1956. 

The neighborhood is also famous for a few different festivals, where locals and tourists alike gather to celebrate the saints. In June, the neighborhood transforms into a celebration of St. Anthony, with parades, live music, street vendors, bocce ball, and even a giant meatball contest. In October, the Italian Heritage Festival turns the streets into a huge celebration — with a procession, live music, and delicious Italian food. 

The methodology behind this list of Best Little Italy neighborhoods in America focused largely on researching fellow travel guides and blogs, Trip Advisor and Google restaurant reviews, and Little Italy and restaurant webpages to determine the authenticity and history behind each of the above neighborhoods, and which ones made people feel most like they were enjoying a day out in sunny Italy. The U.S. isn't the only place you'll find great Italian neighborhoods. You can also explore some of the best Little Italy neighborhoods around the world.