Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Coffee Lovers in Little Italy
Top Things to Do in New York City for Coffee Lovers in Little Italy
1. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe
A Little Italy institution since 1892, Ferrara blends old-world charm with a serious espresso program. Sit beneath gleaming pastry cases, order a cappuccino crowned with velvety microfoam, and pair it with a crisp sfogliatella or cannoli while the neighborhood hums outside.
✓ Why Go:
It’s reputed as America’s first espresso bar and still delivers textbook shots with classic Italian pastries in the heart of Grand Street.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning to late afternoon for quicker lines; evenings buzz during weekends and festivals.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for your sfogliatella warmed so the layers shatter alongside a short, rich espresso.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers praise the consistent quality and heritage vibe; expect a wait that moves quickly.
2. Caffe Roma
An old-school pasticceria pouring robust espresso amid vintage tile floors and tin ceilings on Broome Street. Affogatos, cannoli, and strong shots make it a perfect recharge between Mulberry strolls.
✓ Why Go:
Authentic atmosphere and no-nonsense espresso with classic Italian sweets baked on-site.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon for a quieter sit-down; evenings for lively people-watching.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order an affogato—vanilla gelato drowned in a fresh pull—for a decadent pick-me-up.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the time-capsule feel and hearty portions; service is brisk and friendly.
3. Caffé Palermo
Home of the Cannoli King, this Mulberry Street mainstay pairs creamy ricotta-filled cannoli with foamy cappuccinos late into the evening beneath twinkling street lights.
✓ Why Go:
Icon status, late hours, and a sweet-savory coffee-and-pastry combo that screams Little Italy.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings, especially on weekends, for the classic Mulberry Street scene.
✓ Insider Tip:
Try the cappuccino cake with an espresso for a coffee-on-coffee dessert duo.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors rave about the cannoli and lively ambiance; a quintessential neighborhood stop.
4. La Bella Ferrara
A beloved bakery-café where locals pop in for espresso and trays of Italian cookies. The compact counter and sidewalk tables keep you close to the action on Mulberry.
✓ Why Go:
Unpretentious, flavorful pastries and solid espresso in a classic Little Italy setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning for fresh pastries without the evening crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab mini cannoli to-go with a macchiato and wander Mulberry Street.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests appreciate fair prices, generous portions, and the neighborhood feel.
5. Caffe Napoli
Sidewalk seating, classic espresso drinks, and an old-world façade make this corner café a prime perch for a coffee break between Grand and Hester.
✓ Why Go:
Decades of Little Italy history and great people-watching with your cappuccino.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning or early evening when the patio is shaded and lively.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a simple espresso and share a tiramisu—sweet, creamy, and coffee-soaked.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Reviewers highlight friendly service and a quintessential street café vibe.
6. Gelso & Grand
At the iconic Mulberry-and-Grand corner, this modern Italian spot complements wood-fired pies with a polished espresso program—great for a post-meal ristretto.
✓ Why Go:
Contemporary design meets classic Italian coffee culture at a marquee intersection.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After lunch for a mellow espresso or late night for a buzzy scene.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a cortado if you prefer a balanced milk-to-espresso ratio after dinner.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners note upbeat energy, solid coffee, and prime corner seating.
7. Il Cortile
A refined Mulberry stalwart with a glass-roofed atrium where an after-dinner espresso feels especially elegant—perfect with a slice of tiramisu.
✓ Why Go:
Classic setting, polished service, and a serene space to linger over coffee.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dinner hour into evening for espresso and dessert under the atrium glow.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request seating near the atrium for a quieter coffee-and-dessert experience.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests consistently praise the ambiance and well-prepared classics.
8. Da Nico Ristorante
Family-run favorite known for a warm welcome and, come dessert time, strong espresso and classic sweets—ideal in fair weather when the garden is open.
✓ Why Go:
Neighborhood hospitality and dependable coffee to close a hearty Italian meal.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings; on sunny days, ask about the garden for a relaxed espresso finale.
✓ Insider Tip:
Finish with zeppole and an espresso for a true Little Italy send-off.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Reviewers highlight the friendly vibe and satisfying end-of-meal coffees.
9. La Mela Ristorante
A long-running Mulberry Street crowd-pleaser where the espresso is robust and desserts are generously portioned—great for groups wrapping up a feast.
✓ Why Go:
Lively, welcoming spot to cap dinner with cappuccinos and sharing desserts.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Prime dinner hours into late evening for festive energy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Split the ricotta cheesecake and pair with double espressos for the table.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors appreciate big portions, upbeat staff, and reliable after-dinner coffee.
10. Caffe De La Venezia
Casual Italian café-pizzeria that doubles as an easy espresso stop on the Mulberry stroll—good for a quick macchiato or a sit-down cappuccino with something sweet.
✓ Why Go:
Unfussy, comfortable option to refuel with espresso right on Mulberry Street.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday or early evening when turnover is steady and seats open quickly.
✓ Insider Tip:
If you like it simple, order a straight espresso and a biscotto—classic and quick.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests note friendly service, reasonable prices, and convenient location.
