What to do and eat in Belmont, Bronx: New York Botanical Garden, Arthur Avenue, more

De Lillo Pastry Shop at 610 E. 187 St. is far from the only pastry shop on the block, but it is often the only one customers flock to for authentic Italian desserts. People swear by the sturdy, sweet-but-not-too-sweet cannolis at this 92-year-old establishment, as well as the steaming cappuccinos, which all come with a hearty dollop of cream. The narrow shop is dominated by the large deli case of cakes and cookies as far as the eye can see and the space is often filled by a mix of customers, young and old, tourist and local. If not the cannoli, choose from standard Italian fare like rainbow cakes, amarettis (almond paste cookies) and cream-filled babas. During the summer, grab a chair on the outdoor patio and enjoy some gelato. ” data-id=”113367750″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/13248_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.13367750″/>
Photo Credit: Esha Ray

If there’s one thing to try at Mike’s Deli inside the bustling Arthur Avenue Retail Market, it is the eggplant parmigiana. The dish is so good, even Food Network host Bobby Flay couldn’t beat the recipe back in 2010 during an episode of “Throwdown!” The secret to the 50-year-old deli’s version of this classic Italian meal is the fresh mozzarella, which owner David Greco makes every morning, and the thin slices of peeled eggplant that are layered throughout.

Mike’s Deli serves as both a restaurant and a market, so you can buy wholesale meats (pictured), cheese, breads and olives from the counter or sit down with a glass of wine and a sandwich — with more than 50 to choose from. If you decide to try the latter, however, be warned: the Arthur Avenue Retail Market gets packed around noon,so grabbing a seat might prove challenging.

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Photo Credit: Esha Ray

Bronx Beer Hall is located exactly where it should be — at the center of all the delis, markets and pastry shops that make up the Arthur Avenue Retail Market at 2344 Arthur Ave. Most beers on tap are from area craft breweries, like the Blood Orange Pale Ale from Great South Bay on Long Island or the Mothers Milk Stout from Keegan Ales in Kingston, N.Y. The plentiful TVs, upbeat music and late hours (it closes at 3 a.m. most days) make for a fun night out with friends. If you’re around earlier in the day, switch things up with brunch and sip a “beermosa” (pictured), a unique concoction of Belgian ale and orange juice. ” data-id=”113367747″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/13254_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.13367747″/>
Photo Credit: Esha Ray

To outsiders, Belmont is the Little Italy of the Bronx. To locals, it’s the only Little Italy in the city.

Arthur Avenue is the neighborhood’s main artery, a bustling street filled with loud families and tourists in town to stock up on gourmet Italian delicacies. Many of the businesses that opened more than 100 years ago still exist today, adding to the feeling of community that makes Belmont thrive.

Outside of this Italian enclave, however, there are some unique treasures in the neighborhood that have gained national attention — and that you won’t find anywhere else. Put on some good walking shoes and spend a day in this beautiful Bronx neighborhood. And make sure to come hungry.