In the Belmont section of the Bronx, New York, Arthur Avenue is a thriving center of Italian-American culture and cuisine. Arthur Avenue, also referred to as the “real Little Italy,” gives guests a genuine taste of Italian culture and tradition.
There are numerous specialty stores, eateries, and markets lining the street, each with its own distinct charm and personality. The Arthur Avenue Retail Market, a bustling indoor market that has been a part of the community since the early 1940s, is one of Arthur Avenue’s most well-known locations. Visitors can find a wide variety of Italian specialties here, including cured meats, artisanal bread, fresh pasta, and homemade mozzarella.
Along Arthur Avenue, there are numerous other stores that provide a taste of Italy in addition to the retail market. For instance, Casa Della Mozzarella is a family-run company that has been producing fresh mozzarella on the premises for more than 30 years. Other Italian cheeses and specialty goods are also offered for sale in the store.
Borgatti’s Ravioli & Egg Noodles, a pasta shop that has been in operation for more than 80 years, is another must-see location on Arthur Avenue. Here, guests can watch as the staff expertly makes each piece of pasta by hand using age-old methods. Pasta shapes and fillings are available in a wide range at the store, including traditional cheese ravioli and more unusual flavors like pumpkin and goat cheese.
Without a visit to one of the many Italian bakeries on Arthur Avenue, of course, no trip to the street would be complete. For instance, the family-run Addeo Bakery has been in business for more than 80 years. Visitors can indulge in a variety of sweet treats here, such as tiramisu, cannolis, and sfogliatelle.
Along with the food, Arthur Avenue is also the location of numerous landmarks and cultural institutions. Numerous programs and events honoring Italian-American history and heritage are presented by venues like the Belmont Library and Enrico Fermi Cultural Center.
A number of old churches, including the Church of St. Dominic and Our Lady of Mount Carmel, can be found on Arthur Avenue. The neighborhood’s Italian-American community has a strong sense of tradition and faith, which is reflected in these lovely houses of worship.
The annual Ferragosto festival, held in August each year, is among the best times to visit Arthur Avenue. Live music, dancing, and plenty of delectable Italian food are all part of this fun street festival.
In recent years, artisanal food and beverage producers have gathered on Arthur Avenue. The Bronx Beer Hall, for instance, serves pub food with an Italian influence and a wide selection of craft beers from nearby breweries. Similar to this, the Bronx Distilling Company uses locally sourced ingredients to create a variety of spirits, including gin, whiskey, and rum.
Arthur Avenue has not been exempt from the problems that many urban neighborhoods face, despite its many charms. Newcomers, development, and gentrification have all increased in the area over the past few years. While these changes have given the area new opportunities, they have also caused some people to worry about how to preserve the area’s distinctive history and character.
The cultural and culinary traditions of Arthur Avenue are being promoted and preserved as a result of the efforts of numerous organizations and community groups. For instance, the Belmont Business Improvement District has played a key role in promoting the area as a vacation spot for both foodies and culture enthusiasts. Throughout the year, the organization organizes a variety of activities, such as food tours, cooking classes, street fairs, and cultural festivals.
