Mary in Vancity

When Josh and I booked the Chinatown and Little Italy Food Walking Tour with Ahoy New York Food Tours, I was expecting great food. I didn’t expect how much I’d fall in love with the stories, history, and hidden gems these two iconic neighbourhoods offer. Our small group of food enthusiasts wandered through bustling streets for three hours, indulging in one incredible bite after another while soaking in fascinating tidbits about the city’s past. If you’re ready to eat your way through history, let me take you on a virtual taste of my experience.

A Tasteful Start in Chinatown

Our meeting point was at Mott and Pell Streets in the heart of Chinatown. From the first step, the sights and smells enveloped me. Our guide was a treasure trove of knowledge, weaving together stories of immigration, community, and culinary traditions that shaped the neighbourhood.

We began our journey with a warm cup of jasmine green tea paired with a delicate Chinese pastry. It was the perfect introduction to the flavors of Chinatown. Next, we tried Chinese sponge cakes – light, fluffy, and just sweet enough to keep you reaching for another bite. But the real highlight? Pan-seared dumplings bursting with savoury goodness and Fay Da Bakery’s pork buns, which are every bit as addictive as they sound.

Walking along Doyers Street, famously known as “The Bloody Angle” for its historical significance, we learned about the area’s storied past. Each step revealed a new layer of Chinatown’s vibrant culture, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to savour this slice of New York City history.

Crossing into Little Italy

A few blocks later, we arrived in Little Italy, where the charm of red-checkered tablecloths and the aroma of marinara sauce greeted us. Our first stop was at Piemonte Ravioli, a family-owned gem where fresh gnocchi and imported Italian cheeses stole the show. The gnocchi paired with their delicious homemade sauce melted in my mouth and set the stage for the Italian feast that awaited us.

At Di Palo’s, a beloved institution, we sampled olives and artisanal cheeses that transported me straight to Italy. Our seated tasting was the crown jewel of this portion of the tour: a hearty plate of eggplant rollatini alongside an Italian beer (optional for guests 21 and older). It was impossible not to savour every bite.

Of course, no trip to Little Italy would be complete without dessert. Enter the cannoli. Crisp, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet – it was the perfect ending to our culinary adventure.

Why Choose Ahoy New York Food Tours?

What sets Ahoy New York apart is the thoughtful curation of each stop. This isn’t just a food tour; it’s an experience that blends flavour, culture, and history. With a maximum of 12-13 guests per group, the tour felt intimate and personalized. Our guide not only navigated us through iconic spots but also shared insider tips for continuing the adventure after the tour. From hidden dumpling shops to where to find the best canolli, I left with a list of must-visit places.

The tour accommodates most dietary restrictions with advanced notice, so no one has to miss out on the fun. And did I mention it’s family-friendly? Whether you’re a local looking for a new perspective or a visitor wanting to taste NYC’s diversity, this tour is for you.

Practical Tips

• Book in Advance: Tours sell out quickly, especially on weekends.
• Dress Comfortably: You’ll be walking for three hours, rain or shine.
• Bring Your Appetite: The tastings are generous and easily make up a full lunch.
• Be Ready to Snap Photos: From picturesque plates to historic streets, there’s plenty to capture.

Final Thoughts

Ahoy New York Food Tours is more than just a food tour; it’s a deep dive into the soul of two neighborhoods that define the melting pot of NYC. The mix of history, culture, and incredible flavours made this an unforgettable experience. For $105 per person, it’s worth every penny – and then some.

So, whether you’re craving pan-seared dumplings in Chinatown or creamy cannoli in Little Italy, this tour has you covered. Book your spot, bring an empty stomach, and get ready for a delicious adventure!