This weekend, Arthur Avenue inaugurated a new “piazza” for the first time Little Italy of the North’s 100+ year history. A section of the neighborhood –East 188th street to Crescent Avenue– is now closed to traffic on weekend evenings from Thursday through Sunday.
The goal of the piazza is to create “a glorious, European-style outdoor dining experience,” according to the Belmont Business Improvement District, a community organization that serves the businesses of Arthur Avenue.
In anticipation of the new tradition, Italian restaurants made preparations to welcome diners by building cozy patios with tables spaced six feet apart.
Piazza Belmont (via Facebook)
While many of Arthur Avenue’s delis, butchers, bakers, and specialty shops kept operating during the stay-at-home order this spring, for many restaurants this moment is a chance to welcome back customers in a festive atmosphere.
Over the weekend, several posted photos of their new outdoor spaces and encouraged customers to swing by.
“We are happy to announce that we are officially open for outside seating and will be waiting for you :-),” wrote San Gennaro Restaurant.
San Gennaro (via Facebook)
When visiting restaurants on the piazza, reservations are highly recommended.
Here are some of the participating restaurants, eateries, and local businesses:
Ann & Tony’s, Antonio’s Trattoria, Arthur Avenue Fiasco, Azgardz, Bronx Beer Hall, Café Nocciola, Cka Ka Qellu, Emilia’s Restaurant, Enzo’s of Arthur Avenue, Estrellita Poblana III, Fiasco, Gerbasi Ristorante, Gurra Café, Mario’s Restaurant, Mike’s Deli, Michaelangelo’s, Pasquale’s Rigoletto Restaurant, San Gennaro Restaurant, Tapas Italiano, Tino’s Deli, Zero Otto Nove.
For more information visit: www.bronxlittleitaly.com