Little Italy, located in lower Manhattan between Soho and Chinatown is home to many second and third generations of Italian immigrants who migrated to the United States in the late 1800's and early 1900's. In a census taken in 1900 the Italian population in New York City alone was 225,000 and by 1904 the number had reached 575,000.

Like the regions in Italy, Little Italy became a region specific neighborhood. For example, immigrants from Northern Italy settled along Bleecker Street, the Geneoese settled along Baxter Street and families from Western Sicily made their homes along Elizabeth Street.

Today, the Italian population has shrunk significantly as families have moved out of the city to the outer boroughs and beyond creating other "Little Italy's" in those neighborhoods. There is the Little Italy of the Bronx, of Brooklyn, Queens, Bensonhurst, Howard Beach and on Staten Island where 40% of the population is of Italian Ancestory. Much of the neighborhood has been absorbed by Chinatown as more immigrants from China and other Eastern countries came to NYC. The neighborhood north of Little Italy near Hudson Street known as NoLita is no longer reconizably Italian.

Plan a visit in September when New York City's biggest, best known street party takes place, The Feast of San Gennaro. The festival is the city's longest running and is in honor of the Patron Saint of Naples. This 11 day party features a religious procession along the lengths of Mulberry and Mott Streets as well as many events and festivities taking place during the festival.

Though smaller in size, the community maintains its strong Italian spirit and visitors continue to flock the area for a sampling of it's Old World charm. Short of going to Italy, satisfying a craving for a true espresso and canoli can be done at one of the many al fresco cafe's or after dinner at one of the fine dining restaurants.