Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Chocolate Lovers in Little Italy
Top Things to Do in New York City for Chocolate Lovers in Little Italy
1. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe
Since 1892, this Grand Street landmark has satisfied chocoholics with silky cioccolata calda, chocolate cannoli, flourless tortes, and rich gelato al cioccolato—served amid an old-world espresso-bar buzz.
✓ Why Go:
It’s Little Italy’s dessert time capsule and a one-stop shop for classic Italian chocolate treats, from cocoa-dusted tiramisù to chocolate-dipped cannoli shells.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late evenings (after 8 pm) for shorter lines; in winter, come midafternoon for a warming hot chocolate break.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order an affogato with chocolate gelato for a coffee-and-cocoa double hit; check the pastry case for seasonal chocolate specials during San Gennaro in September.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors rave about decadent flavors and nostalgic vibes; expect crowds but most say the chocolate desserts are worth the wait.
2. La Bella Ferrara
Family-run since 1970, this Mulberry Street bakery turns out crisp cannoli (try chocolate-dipped shells), chocolate mousse cups, and cocoa-kissed pastries to enjoy curbside on Little Italy’s main drag.
✓ Why Go:
For a humbler, locals-loved alternative with big chocolate payoffs—perfect for a grab-and-stroll dessert.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon to snag fresh-filled chocolate cannoli without a queue.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for mini cannoli with chocolate chips if you’re dessert-hopping; they travel well and won’t spoil your next stop.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for classic flavors at fair prices; guests love the crunchy shells and not-too-sweet chocolate fillings.
3. Caffe Roma
A century-old pastry shop on Broome serves dense chocolate cake, chocolate cannoli, and old-school hot cocoa beneath pressed-tin ceilings and vintage display cases.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the neighborhood’s unfussy, historic counter for chocolate comforts and espresso—perfect when you want a seat and a slice.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons between lunch and dinner (2–5 pm) when seats open up and the pastry case is still full.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair a chocolate cannoli with a cappuccino or opt for stracciatella gelato if you prefer chocolate in shards.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans call it authentic and atmospheric; some note cash is handy and service is old-school brisk.
4. Gelso & Grand
At the lively corner of Mulberry and Grand, this modern trattoria finishes meals with dark chocolate sorbet, stracciatella gelato, and a rotating budino—great for cocoa-forward finales.
✓ Why Go:
You’ll get sit-down dining plus serious dessert options, ideal if your group wants pasta but you’re here for chocolate.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dinner on weeknights for easier tables; summer evenings shine on the patio with a cold chocolate dessert.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order an espresso shot over dark chocolate sorbet for a refreshing, bittersweet affogato twist.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the scene and desserts that balance sweetness with Italian restraint.
5. Il Cortile
A Little Italy stalwart since the 1970s, Il Cortile’s chocolate hits include cocoa-dusted tiramisù and spumoni coated in chocolate—served in an elegant, garden-like dining room.
✓ Why Go:
For a classic, white-tablecloth chocolate finale that feels celebratory without leaving the neighborhood.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Reserve for dinner Thursday–Sunday; earlier seating lets you linger over dessert and digestifs.
✓ Insider Tip:
Split tiramisù and chocolate-coated spumoni so you get both creamy cocoa and ice-cream crunch.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars praise the refined atmosphere and dependable desserts that taste like tradition.
6. Di Palo’s Fine Foods
This beloved Italian grocer stocks premium imported chocolates—think gianduja, cremini squares, and Perugina classics—ideal for edible souvenirs or a DIY tasting.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the best place in Little Italy to curate a box of Italian chocolate bars and pralines you won’t find in convenience shops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings on weekdays to browse at your own pace; weekends can see lines wrapping the deli counter.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff to suggest a North vs. South Italy chocolate lineup—try Piedmont hazelnut gianduja alongside dark Modica-style bars.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers love the knowledgeable team and top-shelf imports; many leave with more chocolate than planned.
7. Caffe Napoli
A sidewalk-café pioneer where you can savor profiteroles draped in chocolate, cocoa-dusted tiramisù, and espresso drinks while people-watching on Hester Street.
✓ Why Go:
For a classic Little Italy café moment centered on chocolate desserts and strong coffee.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour (6–8 pm) for lively street energy; winter afternoons for cozy hot drinks and sweets.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order cappuccino ‘scuro’ with a chocolate dessert to keep the sweetness in balance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors highlight friendly service and prime patio seating; desserts are described as satisfying and shareable.
8. Puglia Restaurant
This festive, music-filled mainstay ends family-style meals with chocolate-forward treats—think lava cake, chocolate mousse, and classic tartufo.
✓ Why Go:
If you like your chocolate with a side of singalong energy, this is the neighborhood’s most spirited dessert stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend dinners for the lively vibe; earlier seatings are better for families wanting a calmer scene.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair the warm chocolate cake with a scoop of vanilla for a hot-cold contrast, then stroll Mulberry under the lights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Groups applaud the fun atmosphere and crowd-pleasing chocolate desserts at the end of generous meals.
9. Da Nico Ristorante
A neighborhood favorite with a leafy patio, Da Nico serves chocolate tartufo, cocoa-dusted tiramisù, and gelati that wrap up brick-oven pizza dinners on a sweet, chocolatey note.
✓ Why Go:
Great for al fresco dessert in-season and a relaxed, classic Mulberry Street feel.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring through early fall on the garden patio; arrive before the peak 7–9 pm dinner rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for an affogato with chocolate gelato—simple, elegant, and not too heavy after a big meal.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the courtyard charm and unfussy, nostalgic desserts that hit the chocolate spot.
10. Lunella Ristorante
Family-run since the 1980s, Lunella plates Italian comfort classics and time-honored desserts like cocoa-laced tiramisù and chocolate-topped profiteroles in a cozy dining room.
✓ Why Go:
A warm, welcoming stop when you want traditional Italian chocolate sweets served with neighborhood hospitality.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknight dinners or weekend lunches for an unhurried meal and room for dessert.
✓ Insider Tip:
Share tiramisù plus a chocolate dessert to mix creamy cocoa and deeper chocolate notes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners praise the friendly staff and homey desserts that taste like nonna made them.
