By Isabel Prontes
Little Italy is a bustling neighborhood that is located in Lower Manhattan in
New York City. It formerly was populated by many Italian-Americans. It is in close proximity to Chinatown. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City. There are many fine Italian restaurants, shops and businesses in Little Italy.
Il Palazzo
Il Palazzo (The Palace) is a vibrant two-story Italian restaurant located in the heart of Little Italy. The restaurant has an elegant yet laid-back atmosphere, and it has a back garden that features a fountain, which is especially popular in the summer. The menu is extensive, offering everything from grilled pork chops and filet of sole (almond-crusted) to grilled octopus and porterhouse steak. A large dessert selection is also available.
Il Palazzo
151 Mulberry St.
New York, NY 10013
(212) 343-7000
http://www.littleitalynyc.com/ilpalazzo
Il Cortile
Little Italy's Il Cortile has a classic atmosphere. It has several separate dining rooms, including the Renaissance Room, Caesar's Room and the Garden Room. There is also a cocktail lounge. The restaurant's ambience is both romantic and intimate. Some of the menu favorites at Il Cortile include fried calamari, spinach ravioli (with Parmesan and ricotta cheese), chicken filetto, baked rigatoni and fettuccine Bolognese.
Il Cortile
125 Mulberry St.
New York, NY 10013
(212) 226-6060
http://www.ilcortile.com
Da Nico Ristorante
Da Nico Ristorante is a beloved Little Italy dining establishment that is known for both southern and northern Italian fare. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere and is family-oriented. Some of the favorites on the menu include the classic brick-oven pizza, veal chops, filet mignon, spaghetti alla carbonara, risotto Milanese and the orrechiette with sausage. During the summer months, Da Nico Ristorante opens up a pleasant outdoor garden dining area.
Da Nico Ristorante
164 Mulberry St.
New York, NY 10013
(212) 343-1212
http://www.littleitalynyc.com/danico
Casa Bella Ristorante Bar-Cafe
Casa Bella Ristorante Bar-Cafe has been in existence since 1979, and much of the original staff has stayed on board. The restaurant has three separate dining rooms as well as a bar (which allows both eating and smoking). Between the months of May and October, there is also a large outdoor cafe full of lively tables, umbrellas and hearty Italian cuisine. It is an excellent place to watch people passing by on Mulberry Street. The restaurant serves popular Italian dishes, including spaghetti Bolognese, rigatoni alla vodka, gnocchi, fettuccine, linguine, tortellini, penne and much more.
Casa Bella Ristorante Bar-Cafe
127 Mulberry St.
New York, NY 10013
(212) 431-4080
http://www.casabellarestaurant.com
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
