NoLita's Past and Present Food & History Tour with FNYT
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
HISTORY MEETS ICONIC EATS AND STYLISH BOUTIQUES
Tucked off the beaten path between SoHo and Little Italy, NoLita (“North of Little Italy”) is where old-school NY charm meets modern downtown cool. As we stroll through the neighborhood’s tree-lined streets, your expert guide will serve up insider stories, hidden landmarks, the rich immigrant history, and the delicious hidden gems that we love, making this one of the most diverse food experiences in the city.
Find out where the name NoLita came from and when it became known for its charming cafes, restaurants, eateries, and boutiques. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, this tour is a delicious way to discover a side of downtown NYC most tourists miss.
FEATURES OF THIS TOUR:
4 indoor restaurant tastings (one with wine), and 2 on-the-go desserts.
And plenty of time indoors to use a restroom!
Available options
NoLita's Past and Present Food & History Tour with FNYT
What's included
Licensed NYC Tour Guide
Glass of wine included at Emporio (non-alcoholic beverage substitution available). More drinks are available for purchase at some other establishments. Must be 21+ years old to purchase alcohol.
All food tastings are included in your ticket price and is enough food that you won't be hungry after!
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start off your tour in the shadow of the original Saint Patrick's Cathedral and learn all about it's rich history in the neighborhood as a pillar of the Italian community, peek inside the "little door" and see where the most iconic Godfather Movie scene was shot!
2
Stop 2
*SEATED INDOOR TASTING* Try our favorite bite from one of NYC's most popular, and authentic Mexican taqueria's, which is paired with their refreshing Watermelon Fresca juice.
3
Stop 3
We stop in at this local butcher that's been a staple in the neighborhood for over 100 years, where Martin Scorsese used to shop and now a popular location seen in the TV show "The Marvelous Miss Maisel"
4
Stroll through this beautiful neighborhood garden, filled with classic statures and modern sculptures. Learn all about it's storied history and how it may be demolished soon to make way for more housing.
5
Stop 5
*SEATED INDOOR TASTING* Watch a pizzola make your authentic Neapolitan style pizza in front of your eyes, and see it cook in just minutes inside the wood fired oven. Enjoys this setting tasting with a paired glass of wine (INCLUDED!!) for an elevated tasting like NO OTHER FOOD TOUR!
6
Stop 6
Stop outside of this historic spot where the Gotti Mafia Family used to have their social club and take care of "Family business"!
7
Stop 7
*SEATED INDOOR TASTING* Let us take your palate on a ride at a popular Vietnamese fusion restaurant serving rice crepe tacos filled with classic Vietnamese fillings like lemongrass chicken and pickled veggies!
8
Stop 8
We'll take a walk by the "Little Italy" restaurant row lined with classic red sauce joints hawking dinner deals and imported Italian products at specialty shops, learn about our favorite places and where to eat.
9
Stop 9
Packed with imported direct from Spain, this cafe and marketplace makes their delicious Chorizo in house, which we try as a Bocadila topped with manchego cheese and toasted. Browse the 100's of other Spanish products that they import direct from like imberico ham, tinned fish, snacks and cheeses to make beautiful party trays and picnic spreads.
10
Stop 10
Try one of NYC's most beautiful looking, and delicious tasting, chocolate bon bon's that take 3 days to make by hand from a chocolatier who has work at some of NYC's best restaurants.
11
Stop 11
We start our food tour off at one of our favorite woman-owned cafe's in Nolita, tasting their house made Italian Rainbow Cookie, the perfect way to start off a food tour!
What's not included
Tour Guide Gratuity
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
18 reviews
5★
18
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
85 reviews
5★
85
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We are only able to provide vegetarian and nut-free substitutions. We cannot accommodate vegan, gluten free, or other specific food allergies.
Please mention in the booking notes any dietary restrictions, including specific meat restrictions or nut allergies.
Please contact our office directly for any other questions related to dietary restrictions.
Meeting point
Cafe Belle is located on Mulberry Street, between Houston St. and Prince St.
Important notes
Looks for the tour guide in front of Café Belle with our logo starting 15 min. before the tour start time. Call our office if you are running late or need directions.
About New York City
New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.
Top Attractions
Statue of Liberty
A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.
Historical
3-4 hours
$18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)
Central Park
A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (some attractions have fees)
Times Square
The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)
Empire State Building
An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
Architecture
1-2 hours
$44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)
Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.
Museum
3-5 hours
$25 (suggested admission)
Brooklyn Bridge
An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
New York-style Pizza
Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Bagel with Lox
A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.
Breakfast
Contains dairy and fish.
Cheesecake
Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.
Dessert
Contains dairy.
Pastrami on Rye
Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.
Lunch
Contains meat.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Central Park
Kayaking in the Hudson River
Rock climbing in the Bronx
Spas and wellness centers
Yoga and meditation classes
Strolling through botanical gardens
Museum visits
Broadway shows
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
- LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown
By train
Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal
By bus
Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Manhattan
Brooklyn
Queens
Bronx
Staten Island
Day trips
Niagara Falls
650 km (400 miles) • Overnight
A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Washington D.C.
370 km (230 miles) • Full day
The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.
Philadelphia
150 km (93 miles) • Full day
A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.
Festivals
New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November
NYC Pride • Late June
Pro tips
- Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
- Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
- Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
