East 183rd St, Belmont

All right, so let's face it, the 'real' Little Italy isn't in Manhattan unless you're reading an out-of-date guidebook. However there are a great number of Italian and Mexican owned business in this area (usually to the West of Belmont) that beg attention from anyone who has the time to spend exploring.

This street is mostly residential-- the buildings vaguely look like they could belong to the UES out toward the East River, but are mostly occupied by everyday sort of businesses- manicurists, corner stores, the like. There are some wonderful surprises though-- Roberto's has to be one of the best Italian places in the entire city-- totally worthy of a special dinner with a special someone. The neighborhood feels fairly safe, even after dark if you're used to wandering the city alone.