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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Little Italy

Authentic spots

Made for those who have no patience for watered-down versions of tradition and seek out only the most genuine culinary experiences.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Cairo Kebab image 1
Cairo Kebab image 2
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Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy space offers authentic Egyptian flavors like Koshary and lamb shawarma with simple, elegant decor. 90s Arabic music creates a relaxed atmosphere that feels like a family home. Clean, spacious dining makes it perfect for casual meals or dates.

Food features authentic Egyptian flavors with dishes like Koshary and lamb shawarma standing out. Appetizers such as hummus, baba ghannoug, and falafel taste traditional and well-prepared.

People are saying

"I experienced authentic Egyptian cuisine bursting with Eastern flavors."

"The soup here is so flavorful and comforting."

"The hummus is creamy and smooth with a nice tahini nuttiness."

Good to know

1

The prices at Cairo Kebab are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

2

Parking is conveniently located across the street for just $3.

3

Cairo Kebab is a halal restaurant, catering to dietary restrictions.

02
Living Water Tea House image 1

Space offers a calm ambiance with natural lighting and beautiful teaware that creates a cozy vibe. Loose leaf Chinese teas shine with authentic quality and traditional preparation. Milk tea features real milk and quality black tea in a modern Chinese style setting.

Loose leaf Chinese teas stand out for their authentic quality and traditional preparation. Milk tea uses good quality black tea leaves and real milk, served in a cozy modern Chinese style setting.

People are saying

"I loved the personalized tea tasting experience and learning about each tea."

"The owner and staff are so nice and kind."

"I found the Puer milk tea to be authentic and comforting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for tea tastings, especially on weekends.

2

The tea tasting experience lasts about two hours and includes nine different teas.

3

The owner provides detailed explanations about the sourcing and uniqueness of each tea.

03
Conte Di Savoia image 1

Italian deli shines with authentic sandwiches and classic espresso. Checkerboard floors and tin pan ceiling add old school cool charm. Rich, genuine character makes it a true neighborhood gem.

Offers authentic Italian sandwiches, classic espresso, and a wide range of genuine Italian products. The deli maintains a traditional Italian vibe throughout.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be amazing and really good."

"It's an old school Italian deli with a classic vibe."

"Their authentic Italian sandwiches are super delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices are very reasonable compared to other sandwich shops in the area.

2

The deli has about four tables available for dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak lunch hours.

04
Tufano's Vernon Park Tap image 1
Italian restaurant

Family-owned spot offers authentic Italian food with a vibe like Nonna's kitchen. Enjoy dog-friendly patio and a big fountain outside. Free valet and a room for large groups make it easy and welcoming.

Authentic Italian food shines with family-owned atmosphere and a vibe that feels like Nonna's kitchen. The menu offers lots of choices that stay true to local Italian roots.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fantastic and the portions generous."

"The outdoor seating is lovely with plants and a fountain."

"The food here is authentic Italian, just like Nonna's."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash, check, or Venmo; no credit or debit cards.

2

Parking is tough unless using the valet service.

3

They require customers to look at chalkboards for menu items instead of printed menus.

05
Gathers Tea Bar image 1

Small cafe offers a modern, minimalist aesthetic with a cozy vibe. Known for authentic matcha and genuine Hong Kong Milk Tea, it draws tea lovers. Limited seating and a lively crowd make it a popular hangout spot.

Authentic matcha stands out here with a true flavor profile. The Hong Kong Milk Tea also tastes genuine, making it a solid spot for real tea experiences.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best matcha I ever had."

"The strawberry matcha latte is creamy and well balanced."

"I found their matcha to be authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid waiting in line.

3

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

06
Fontano's Subs image 1
Sandwich shop

Old school corner deli offers authentic Italian subs with fresh bread and generous meat. Quiet, laid-back vibe feels like true Little Italy. Simple, cozy decor with linoleum tables and shelves of snacks adds to the charm.

Subs here deliver an authentic Italian sub experience that sets a new standard. The whole vibe feels like a true Little Italy spot from start to finish.

People are saying

"I considered this the best sub sandwich I've ever had."

"You've got to try the pot roast sandwich; it's amazing American Food."

"I found these subs to be the real deal, an authentic Italian sub."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit challenging in the area.

2

The subs are reasonably priced and generous in portion.

3

You can order a sandwich or make it a meal with chips and a soda.

07
Adda Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Soft lighting and jazz piano create a cozy atmosphere perfect for date nights. Kerala chicken with butter naan offers authentic flavors that burst with spice and freshness. Spacious booths and a lively vibe make it great for casual dining.

Food bursts with authentic flavors, perfectly spiced and fresh. Kerala chicken with butter naan delivers a genuine Indian gravy taste.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, I'm still thinking about it."

"They had so many unique and delicious vegetarian options."

"I found the Indian food here to be authentic and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Adda Indian Cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

2

Gluten-free friendly dishes are available at Adda Indian Cuisine.

3

Parking is plentiful and available on the street near the restaurant.

08
Siri Indian Restaurant image 1
Indian restaurant

Small dining space offers an intimate setting with dim, romantic lighting and a cozy, elegant ambiance. South Indian dishes like Dosa and chicken biriyani bring authentic, complex flavors. Atmosphere stays calm and stylish, perfect for casual meals or special occasions.

Dishes feature complex flavors and perfectly spiced ingredients. South Indian specialties like Dosa and chicken biriyani deliver authentic taste and fresh quality.

People are saying

"The flavors here are so authentic and bursting with spices."

"The seafood here has a fantastic peppery kick."

"The ambiance here is so cozy and perfect for any occasion."

Good to know

1

Dosa night happens every Wednesday with unlimited dosas for $12.

2

Lunch buffet is available during the week for $10.

3

Reservations are recommended for dosa night due to high demand.

09
Jim's Original image 1
Hot dog stand

Outdoor counter service and standing eating areas create a classic Chicago food stand vibe. Polish hot dogs with authentic sausage and fried onions offer genuine street food flavors. Practical touches like heat lamps and security add to the laid-back, old-school atmosphere.

Offers an authentic Chicago street food experience with Polish hot dogs featuring authentic sausage, fried onions, and pepper. Stands out for delivering authentic Polish street food flavors beyond typical options.

People are saying

"I thought the Polish sausage here was delicious."

"This fast food is flavorful, fresh, and perfect for a quick bite."

"I found the Polish sausage here to be authentically flavorful and juicy."

Good to know

1

Jim's Original is no longer open 24 hours.

2

There is no indoor dining at Jim's Original.

3

Parking is very easy during lunch hours.

10
Golden Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a welcoming atmosphere serves authentic Thai flavors like standout green curry and pad thai. Prices stay reasonable, but portions are small. Quality shines in every dish.

Dishes feature authentic Thai flavors that are rich but not overwhelming. The green curry stands out for its genuine taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and full of authentic Thai flavors."

"I found the green curry to be amazing and authentic."

"The food here is delicious and packed with authentic Thai flavors."

Good to know

1

A dinner for two costs about $100 without tip.

2

The portion sizes for entrees are small relative to the price.

3

Street parking is free on Sundays.

11
Thai Bowl image 1
Thai restaurant

Offers authentic Thai flavor with standout beef curry noodles. Takeout-only spot with affordable prices and student-friendly hours. Enjoy food in a warm, friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating.

Food features beef curry noodles with a strong, authentic Thai flavor. Dishes consistently deliver a genuine taste of Thailand.

People are saying

"I searched everywhere for Thai food this good."

"I thought the prices here were cheap and the food was good."

"I found the food here to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

Thai Bowl is takeout only; no dine-in option available.

2

Prices at Thai Bowl may be higher than those listed online.

3

Portion sizes may be smaller than expected for the price.

12
Ghareeb Nawaz UIC image 1
Indian restaurant

Small Indian spot offers huge portions of authentic Indian Pakistani dishes at great prices. Interior feels no-frills and cramped, but friendly vibe shines with a prayer corner adding cultural depth.

Food stays authentic and fresh with a focus on affordable Indian Pakistani dishes. The place keeps it simple, serving good, no-frills meals that maintain traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is incredibly affordable and the portions are generous."

"I found the food here to be amazingly fresh and authentic."

"I thought the Butter Chicken was the best dish I had."

Good to know

1

Each dish can easily feed 3 people because of its size.

2

One chicken biryani costs between $8 and $10.

3

Ghareeb Nawaz UIC is halal.

13
Peanut Park Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Rooftop dining with a retractable roof creates a cozy, lively space perfect for groups. Italian-style pizza and pasta deliver authentic flavors in a friendly, no-frills setting. Large open windows blend indoor and outdoor vibes, balancing comfort and energy.

Quaint spot serving authentic Italian-style pizza and pasta with a no frills, friendly neighborhood vibe. Food stays true to classic Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is so delicious."

"The food here is delicious, especially the pasta."

"I loved the authentic Italian-style pizza and pasta."

Good to know

1

Peanut Park Trattoria offers a happy hour between 4-6pm with $3 off pizzas.

2

Brunch is served on weekends with a special menu.

3

Expect long wait times on holidays like Valentine's Day.

14
Chilango Mexican Street Food image 1

Mexican street food spot serves authentic tacos in a cozy atmosphere with bright chairs. Lively vibe blends with fantastic music for a casual, inviting experience.

Food follows authentic Mexican recipes with tacos and burritos that taste genuine. The place also features an authentic aesthetic that matches the traditional vibe.

People are saying

"The Mexican food empanadas are loaded with bananas and Nutella."

"These tacos are loaded and bursting with flavor."

"I loved the authentic aesthetic and delicious Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available on a late Saturday afternoon.

2

The process of placing a pickup order is super easy and smooth.

3

Expect a wait during busy times due to to-go orders.

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Little Italy, Chicago

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