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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Little Italy

Ice cream and gelato

Made for those who treat the distinction between ice cream and authentic gelato as a serious matter of taste.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated May 2026
01
La Bella Ferrara image 1
La Bella Ferrara image 2
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Small bakery with industrial decor and no indoor seating offers a grab-and-go setup featuring Italian pastries and gelato. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and charming, with a long line and friendly, helpful people. Outdoor seating provides a cute spot to enjoy fresh pastries and coffee.

Gelato here is super creamy and made in-house with just the right sweetness. Flavors like Nutella, Pistachio, and Baci chocolate stand out for their rich taste and authenticity.

Gelato here is super creamy and smooth with just the right sweetness. Flavors like Baci chocolate and strawberry stand out for their authentic taste.

People are saying

"I found the cannoli here to be incredibly delicious and fresh."

"The gelato here is amazing, truly some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the gelato here was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

It is recommended to go to La Bella Ferrara early to avoid long lines.

2

Everything is reasonably priced with each item being about $6 on average.

3

There is not a lot of seating available, so don't go with large groups unless you're willing to stand outside.

02
Ferrara Bakery & Cafe image 1

Elegant bakery with classic Italian style and richly decorated interiors offers both indoor and sheltered outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels traditional and cozy, filled with the aroma of freshly baked pastries and lively energy. Known for exceptional cannoli and gelato, it blends old-school charm with a vibrant street presence.

Creamy gelato stands out with intense flavors like pistachio and cherry vanilla. The Gelato trio offers a refreshing variety that rivals top ice cream parlors in Italy and Germany.

Pistachio gelato stands out with a rich, authentic flavor close to European styles. The cherry vanilla gelato offers a refreshing, sweet taste that pairs well with coffee and pastries.

People are saying

"I thought the New York cheesecake here was the best I ever tasted."

"The pistachio gelato had a wonderful aroma and aftertaste."

"I found the pistachio gelato to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during busy hours.

2

Expect long lines, especially during holidays and special events.

3

National Cannoli Day offers a free plain Cannoli with any purchase.

03
Little Italy image 1

Cobblestone streets and picturesque facades create an authentic Italian town feel with a vibrant atmosphere full of lively energy. Outdoor seating offers a cozy and romantic vibe while Italian music and themed food enhance the experience. The area hosts many Italian cultural attractions and features a variety of restaurants serving classic dishes like pizza, pasta, and cannoli.

Italian-style gelato stands out with its rich, creamy texture. Many spots offer good quality ice cream that pairs well with local treats like rainbow cookies.

Gelato Gelato stands out with really good gelato. Multiple gelato stores offer a variety of Italian flavors making gelato a must over frappe here.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and top-notch."

"The gelato here is amazing, just like the food and negronis."

"I enjoyed the good Italian ice cream."

Good to know

1

The Feast of San Gennaro lasts 11 days from September 14-24.

2

Expect large crowds during the San Gennaro Festival, especially on weekends.

3

Most restaurants close their kitchens by 10 PM, so plan dinner early.

04
Sofia's of Little Italy image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, beautiful atmosphere with an inviting outdoor terrace and views of the Empire State Building. Live jazz music fills the space, creating an energetic vibe that can be loud at times. Known for exceptional cocktails and desserts, it features standout espresso martinis and tiramisu.

Pistachio gelato stands out with real pistachio pieces and a very green chocolate flavor. They offer gelato options that feel special, like a birthday treat.

Offers a wide variety of vegan and plant-based gelato options. The Pistachio gelato stands out as amazing. Staff provide good gelato suggestions and sometimes offer gelato for special occasions.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is exceptional and delicious."

"The gelato here is amazing and delicious."

"The Pistachio gelato here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers buy one get one cocktails, making it a great deal.

2

During happy hour, customers may need to ask multiple times for drinks.

3

An automatic 22% tip is included in the bill.

05
Caffé Palermo image 1

Crowded space with elbow-to-elbow seating and grey marble tables creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. Walls adorned with mirrors and a large cannoli sculpture add character and a whimsical touch. Live entertainment and street music contribute to a vibrant, classic Italo-American café vibe.

Rich and creamy chocolate gelato stands out alongside the spumoni Bomba, which combines chocolates, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream with a chocolate shell. The cannoli and lemon sorbet also offer fantastic flavors.

Rich and creamy chocolate gelato stands out with its smooth texture. The coffee gelato and oreo cannoli offer a balanced sweetness that feels just right.

People are saying

"These cannolis are delicious and truly unforgettable."

"I thought the gelato here was ridiculously good."

"I highly recommend the gelato; it's excellent with flavors of Italy."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $20 for two cokes and one scoop of ice cream.

2

The restaurant only serves desserts and does not have any food available for lunch.

3

It is not possible to pay with contactless payment methods.

06
Delillo Pastry Shop image 1

Spacious interior with indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere reminiscent of a classic Italian café. The environment feels intimate but refined, welcoming a diverse crowd including families with strollers. Aromas of fresh pastries and espresso fill the air, enhancing the traditional vibe.

Gelato here lacks the creaminess typical of traditional styles and tastes different than expected. Pastries and other sweets like cakes and Italian cookies are also available alongside the gelato.

Gelato here lacks the traditional creaminess and authentic flavor. Hazelnut is a notable flavor, but overall the gelato quality is low compared to the pastries and other baked goods.

People are saying

"The birthday cake was excellent and delicious."

"The ice cream here is delicious."

"I thought the gelato was good, but there are better options."

Good to know

1

A slice of cake costs $7-8, while a birthday cake for 8 is $40-45.

2

There is a $10 minimum for credit/debit card payments.

3

The shop only allows orders to go after 7:30 PM.

07
Caffe Roma image 1
Coffee shop

Old-school coffee shop with vintage decor and large seating area offers a cozy, quiet atmosphere with bright window-side seating. Patrons enjoy traditional Italian coffee and classic baked goods in a space that feels connected to the past.

Gelato here offers a great taste with flavors like mint chip standing out. It pairs well with espresso and Italian desserts, creating a classic Italian dessert experience.

Great tasting gelato stands out here, including flavors like mint chip. It pairs well with espresso and Italian desserts, making it a solid choice for a sweet treat.

People are saying

"I found the cappuccino here to be smooth and foamy."

"I had some of the best gelato I've ever tasted here."

"I had some of the best gelato I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

A small cannoli at Cafe Roma costs $6.

2

The coffee shop opens just after noon.

3

Each item is made in-house.

08
Morrone Pastry Shop & Cafè image 1

Small pastry shop offers comfortable casual seating and great lighting with a calm, peaceful atmosphere where many people know each other. The air fills with the smell of fresh Italian pastries, creating a warm, welcoming vibe. It serves as a community staple with a wide variety of baked goods and a focus on freshness.

People are saying

"I was obsessed with their delicious cannolis."

"This place is so kid friendly, the cake was a hit with everyone!"

"I enjoyed a cappuccino with strong espresso and creamy foam."

Good to know

1

They don't take credit cards, so cash only is accepted.

2

The seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

3

I recommend going early to avoid the lines.

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Little Italy, New York

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