Explore Chinatown and Little Italy through food, history, and culture on a guided NYC food tour with Tours by Foot. Discover the historic streets of Mott and Mulberry Streets while learning about the immigrant communities that shaped these neighborhoods, visiting iconic movie and TV locations, uncovering hidden gems, and tasting some of the foods that make these communities unforgettable.
Taste some of the foods that define these neighborhoods, including authentic Chinese pork buns, savory fried dumplings, classic New York pizza, and traditional Italian pastries like cannoli. You can also enjoy a refreshing bubble tea or exotic drink along the way.
Along the way, explore two of Manhattan’s oldest neighborhoods and discover the immigrant stories, traditions, and cultural influences that shaped Chinatown and Little Italy into the vibrant communities they are today.
The tour includes 5 food stops featuring favorites from Chinatown and Little Italy:
- Char Siu Bao (roast pork buns) – Enjoy one of Chinatown’s most beloved foods. Vegetarian guests can try plain baked buns or coconut-filled buns.
- Fried dumplings and sesame pancakes – Sample classic Chinese street foods that have become neighborhood favorites.
- Bubble tea or exotic juices – Refresh with a popular drink from Chinatown.
- New York-style pizza – Taste a classic thin-crust slice topped with rich tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella from a local pizzeria.
- Cannoli or Italian pastry – Finish in Little Italy with a traditional Italian treat from a historic pasticceria, including the famous cannoli associated with the “Cannoli King.”
- Dietary Information: Vegetarian options are available. Please note that vegan and gluten-free food options are not available on this tour.
Sites we cover on the tour:
- Doyers Street – Explore the narrow Chinatown street once known as “Murder Alley” and discover how this historic area transformed into a vibrant destination filled with murals, restaurants, and local character.
- Church of the Transfiguration – See this historic church completed in 1801, which has served generations of immigrant communities in the neighborhood for more than 200 years.
- Columbus Park – Discover the history of the former Five Points neighborhood, once one of New York City’s most infamous areas and now a lively gathering place for locals.
- Mulberry Street – Walk through the heart of Little Italy, known for its Italian heritage, family-owned restaurants, and connections to famous movies and television shows.
- Ten Ren Tea Shop – Learn about traditional Chinese tea culture and visit a Chinatown favorite known for its teas from generations of tea producers.
- and much more!
Tour Information
- Meeting Point: The tour begins at the Chinatown Information Kiosk at the intersection of Baxter Street and Canal Street (map).
- End Point: The tour ends at Nolita Pizza, located at 68 Kenmare Street between Mott and Mulberry Streets (map).
- Duration/Distance: Tour lasts 2 hours. Total walking distance is about 1 mile (2km).
- Please Note: Food is purchased separately and is not included in the tour price. This gives you the flexibility to choose the tastings that appeal to you while spending only what fits your appetite and budget.