Savor the authentic tastes and vibrant atmosphere of the Bronx's 'real Little Italy' on an Arthur Avenue food and market tour.
Step off the beaten path and into the heart of the Bronx's thriving Italian-American community with Arthur Avenue Food & Market Tours. Often referred to as the 'real Little Italy,' Arthur Avenue offers an unparalleled culinary and cultural immersion that stands apart from its more tourist-centric Manhattan counterpart. These tours are designed for those who appreciate genuine flavors, bustling marketplaces, and the rich history woven into the fabric of this vibrant neighborhood. You'll navigate a landscape of artisanal shops, family-owned bakeries, specialty cheese mongers, and bustling produce stands, each brimming with the ingredients and traditions that define classic Italian-American cuisine. This is more than just a tasting; it's an exploration. Guides lead you through the labyrinthine corridors of the Arthur Avenue Retail Market, a covered haven for food lovers, and along the lively streets where generations of families have honed their craft. Expect to encounter passionate vendors eager to share their stories and their specialties, from freshly made pasta and cured meats to decadent pastries and potent espresso. These tours offer a chance to connect with the community, understand the provenance of your food, and discover the unique culinary heritage that makes the Bronx a destination in its own right. It's an authentic experience for the discerning traveler seeking depth and deliciousness.
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If your intention is to get a complete idea of New York, you should not miss the opportunity to know the districts of Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens with a Spanish-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour, making stops to take pictures, talking about History and sharing experiences. The whole cultural and tourist offer does not end in Manhattan, with the excursion contrasts of New York: The authentic excursion with which you will be able to appreciate the daily life of the New Yorquinos.

After getting on board this original experience we will travel to the first stop in the prominent Jazz neighborhood of Harlem. The experience continues heading out of Manhattan into the Bronx to admire the grandeur of Yankee Stadium. The exploration of the Bronx continues to the “Joker Steps “and artistic murals- learning more about this famous street art and the history of The Bronx. Our exploration continues in Queens with a lively stroll at the fascinating Flushing Meadows Corona Park. U.S. Open National Tennis Center, Citi Field NY Mets baseball stadium, and Uni-sphere. Brooklyn is where we explore the Williamsburg neighborhood, the largest concentration of Hasidic Jews. The show continues down at Brooklyn’s waterfront, with a view of the world-famous panorama of Manhattan’s skyline and a pace at Domino park. This park’s architecture & landscape is a gorgeous way to admire the New York city bay and landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty & One world trade center.

Lifelong native New Yorker with solid experience and working knowledge of Arthur Avenue, NYC’s "Real Little Italy”. Bring your appetite and explore unique authentic Italian delicacies along one the most famous cultural spots in all of New York City. Hear the stories, history, and what makes Arthur Avenue a must-see visit. Among the highlights, visit the Arthur Avenue Retail Market with its amazing bakery, meat market, produce stand, and café. Get ‘The Big Mike’ at Mike’s Deli, and see the best cigars in NYC made in full view. Try Madonia’s Bakeries ‘olive bread’, see Cosenza’s Fish Market’s open-air raw bar, and check out the famous Calabria Pork Store’s unique ‘pork chandelier’. So many original Italian restaurants to choose from, you can’t go wrong with Ann and Tony’s, Mario’s, Dominick’s, Enzo’s, Zero Otto Nove, Pasquale’s or Frankie’s. Get a slice from ‘Full Moon Pizza’, grab a mozzarella from Casa Della Mozzarella and take home some Borgotti’s ravioli too!

THIS IS A SOCIALLY DISTANCED TOUR. This private guided tour takes you beyond Manhattan to Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx — the "real New York," where most tourists never venture. Hop out wherever you like! Far more than the Empire State Building, Times Square and Rockefeller Center, on this tour, you'll travel out to visit local neighborhoods, sights and markets and have lunch at a local place. Transportation is provided in the comfort of a roomy late model Toyota Sienna minivan, with capacity to accommodate up to six guests. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS PRIVATE DRIVING TOUR IS SOCIALLY DISTANCED FROM THE CROWDED CITY SIDEWALKS, SUBWAYS AND BUSES.
Experience genuine Italian-American culinary traditions passed down through generations. Taste ingredients crafted with passion and expertise.
Discover the vibrant Arthur Avenue Retail Market and surrounding specialty shops, a treasure trove of Italian delicacies and fresh produce.
Engage with passionate vendors and local guides who offer insights into the neighborhood's rich history and cultural heritage.
Go beyond mere tasting to understand the story behind the food, from the sourcing of ingredients to the preparation methods.
Explore a less-visited but equally (if not more) authentic side of New York City's vibrant culinary scene.
Benefit from the knowledge of local guides who navigate you through the best culinary spots and hidden corners of Arthur Avenue.
These popular tours focus on sampling a variety of iconic Italian-American dishes and treats from multiple renowned establishments. Expect stops at bakeries, delis, and pasta shops.
Dive deep into the Arthur Avenue Retail Market, exploring its diverse stalls with a focus on artisanal producers. Learn about sourcing, preparation, and sample specialty items directly from vendors.
These tours often focus on specific aspects of Italian cuisine, such as cheese and charcuterie pairings, wine, or regional specialties. They offer a more curated tasting experience.
Combine culinary exploration with a historical overview of the Bronx's Italian-American heritage. These tours offer context and stories alongside the delicious food.
Tours typically range from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, allowing ample time for walking, tasting, and engaging with guides and vendors.
Tours usually operate rain or shine. Dress appropriately for the season, and be prepared for walking outdoors and in indoor market spaces.
Group sizes can vary, but many tours aim for intimate settings of 6-12 participants to ensure a personalized experience.
Most tours include multiple tasting portions from various vendors and establishments. Some may include a beverage or a small takeaway item. Specific inclusions vary by tour operator.
Meeting points are usually clearly defined and located within easy reach of public transportation, often near the Arthur Avenue Retail Market or a prominent street corner.
While tastings are included, you may wish to purchase additional food items or souvenirs from the shops visited. Gratuities for your guide are also customary.
Wear comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a good amount of walking.
Come hungry! These tours are designed to be a substantial culinary experience, often serving as a meal.
Bring a reusable bag. You might be tempted to buy some specialty ingredients or treats to take home.
Don't be afraid to ask questions. The vendors and guides are passionate about their food and heritage.
Check the weather forecast and dress in layers. The Bronx can experience temperature fluctuations.
Consider your dietary restrictions when booking. While some tours can accommodate, it's best to inquire in advance.
Public transportation is a great way to reach Arthur Avenue. The Bx12, Bx41, and Bx26 buses are common routes, and the D train is a subway option.
Research the tour operators available on TopTours.ai to find one that aligns with your specific interests, whether it's a general food crawl or a specialized culinary deep-dive.
A: Many residents and visitors consider Arthur Avenue to be the authentic heart of Italian-American culture in New York City. It retains a strong sense of community and traditional businesses that feel more rooted than some other areas.
A: Expect a wide array of classic Italian-American staples like fresh pasta, cured meats, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread and pastries, cannoli, espresso, and perhaps some regional specialties. It's a diverse and delicious sampling.
A: Absolutely! Most tours encourage you to explore and purchase items from the shops. Many vendors offer a fantastic selection of groceries, meats, cheeses, and baked goods perfect for taking a taste of Arthur Avenue home with you.
A: This varies by tour operator. Some tours may be able to accommodate certain dietary needs with advance notice, while others might be heavily focused on meat and dairy. It's always best to check the specific tour details or contact the operator directly before booking.
A: Arthur Avenue is accessible via public transportation. The D subway line stops nearby at Fordham Road, and several bus lines, including the Bx12 and Bx41, serve the area directly.
A: Many tours are family-friendly, especially those that focus on broader culinary experiences. However, tours with alcohol pairings or those involving extensive walking through busy markets might be better suited for older children or adults.
A: Arthur Avenue offers a vibrant experience year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant walking weather, while the holiday season brings festive decorations and special treats. The indoor market is a great escape in inclement weather.
A: Manhattan's Little Italy is largely a historic area that has become more commercialized for tourism. Arthur Avenue, on the other hand, is known for its active, authentic Italian-American community, family-run businesses, and bustling retail market that serves locals.
Discover authentic urban culture and vibrant street art, a true New York City experience.
Explore diverse neighborhoods like Arthur Avenue, offering a taste of old-world charm.
Access world-class cultural institutions and green spaces without Manhattan's crowds.
Uncover rich history from Yankee Stadium to the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage.
Savor incredible, authentic cuisine from Italian delis to Dominican eateries.
Experience the resilient spirit and creative energy that defines the Bronx.
The Bronx experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Winters are cold, with average temperatures in the low 30s, and snow is common. Spring and autumn offer milder, more pleasant weather, making them ideal for exploring.
The best months to visit the Bronx are typically May, June, September, and October. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring parks like the New York Botanical Garden.
Summer, from June through August, is the peak season in the Bronx. Expect warm to hot weather, longer daylight hours, and lively outdoor events, though crowds can be larger and prices for accommodations might be slightly higher.
The off-season generally falls during the winter months, from December to February. While it can be cold, you'll encounter fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, offering a more intimate experience with the city's attractions.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Discover the lush landscapes and diverse flora of the Bronx with curated tours of its renowned botanical gardens and vibrant parks.
Discover the Bronx's rich culture, history, and iconic landmarks through guided neighborhood walking tours and immersive experiences.
Explore Edgar Allan Poe's final home and delve into the rich literary past of the Bronx with guided tours.
Explore the Bronx's dynamic street art scene on guided tours, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors and compelling narratives painted across its urban landscape.
Discover the heart of baseball history with guided tours and immersive experiences at the iconic Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.
Getting around the Bronx is best done using its extensive public transportation network. The MTA subway system offers numerous lines connecting to Manhattan and other boroughs, with fares typically $2.90 per ride. Numerous bus routes crisscross the borough, providing access to areas not directly served by the subway. For a more scenic route, consider the ferry from Soundview to Rockaway. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, though they can be more expensive for longer distances. Planning your routes in advance using transit apps is highly recommended for efficient travel within the Bronx.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Bronx adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
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