Little Italy in the Bronx
April 29, 2019: Inspirock
Hundreds of thousands of shoppers, food connoisseurs, and tourists flock to the Little Italy in the Bronx every year, making it one of New York’s most visited neighborhoods. Authentic Italian culture can be experienced at any one of the world-class restaurants, high-quality artisanal food shops, and specialty stores. On your next trip to the Bronx, come visit the charming old-world ambiance of Arthur Avenue, indulge in the variety of imported and hand-made goods, and hear of the history of generations of Italian families. Read more here .
NYC’s Balkan restaurants share culture, traditions with classic dishes
April 23, 2019: AM New York
The Balkans’ form of crispy, melty cheese and bread combination is the burek. Not only can you find these specialities in the region but also in NYC. In our neighborhood, Çka Ka Qëllu reflects the culture of Albania and Kosovo in their food and decor. Ramiz Kukaj, the owner, was inspired by 15th and 16th century Balkan architecture. He collected wood over 10 years which was made into dishes while the floor is covered with a 20 year old carpet that has burn marks from wartimes; all remind customers of the history and culture of Albania. “When you walk in here, you see my spirit. You see our culture,” says Kukaj. Read more here .
Bronx Bakery Preps for Easter
April 19, 2019: News 12 The Bronx
The 100 year old Madonia Bakery rolls out it’s specialty breads for Easter. Customers place orders and flock to the famous bakery to purchase authentic Italian breads to fill their tables for the holiday. The bakery’s staff welcomes customers and customers call Madonia unbeatable. Watch the video here .
Memories Are Made of This: A Vivid Recollection of Times-Gone-By In NYC
April 19, 2019: When the Clock Strikes Midlife
John Fasano tells a story he remembers of an Easter Day as a child climbing to the 4th floor of a high rise apartment building in the Little Italy in the Bronx. Easter was a day where you dressed in your best with a hat atop, off to church and then to Nonni’s for an elaborate meal. Fasano recalls making his way to apartment 20 and hearing “Giovanni, vieni qua” from just inside each door he passed climbing the stairs. Entering, each of his grandmother’s friends offered gifts of pizza rustica, cookies, bread, cheesecake, wine, and easter baskets. By the time he reached his grandmother’s apartment his hands were filled with love. Read more here .
Borgatti’s Pasta: Keeping their dream alive
April 15, 2019: Google
Joan and Chris Borgatti are the owners of Borgatti’s Pasta founded by Chris’ grandparents 83 years ago in the Little Italy of the Bronx. At 18 years old, Chris began learning the ropes of the family business from sweeping the floor to, of course, making their handmade famous ravioli. Joan, working across the street at the pharmacy, met Chris when she came in the store one day. Later they married and now work side by side to run the store together. Borgatti’s customer base has changed over the years as some have moved away, now fueling their online sales, while new faces still enter the door everyday. Watch the video here .
Neighborhood Eats: Albanian food at Çka Ka Qellu
April 9, 2019: ABC 7 NY
Cka Ka Qellu is a restaurant of Albanian culture, history, and food in the Belmont neighborhood. Here you will find Albanian breads and salads, savory layered crepes, and plenty of meat dishes such as veal dumplings. One of the most popular dishes is the Skanderbeg, named for a military hero from the 1400s. It’s recipe includes deep fried veal cutlets layered with a soft cheese, smoked beef, and a creamy dressing. Read more and find the full recipe here .
The 38 Essential Restaurants in New York City, Spring 2019
April 9, 2019: Eater NY
Eater38 names the top restaurants to eat you should try out this Spring in NYC. Heading the list at #1 is our very own Roberto’s on Crescent Ave. Featured dishes include rabbit and the cartoccio pastas which are cooked in foil on the grill, namely the fusilli with clams, mussels, shrimp, and tomatoes. Also, don’t forget to check the chalkboard for specials which often best anything on the regular menu. Read more here.
Here’s Where to Shop for Easter on Arthur Avenue
April 8, 2019: Westchester Magazine
Easter is just around the corner. Here are five stops along Arthur Avenue where you can find your favorite Italian Easter delicacies. (1) Calabria Pork Store. Pick up some dried sausages for your traditional pizza chiena (pizza rustica). (2) Calandra’s Cheese. “The ricotta shop” is the place to go for you fixing of cheese for that pizza rustica and pastiera cakes. (3) Cafe al Mercato. Fuel up on the remainder of your shopping here. And don’t forget to order the pastiera, a golden, crunchy-on-top spaghetti frittata. (4) Gino’s Pastry Shop. Here you will find trays of traditional Sicilian marzipan lambs. (5) Mount Carmel Gourmet Food. Finally, you’ll need a giant chocolate egg and the crème de la crème. Happy Easter!
Read more here.