Cafe Italia

- 500 Tiffany St, Bronx, NY 10474

Welcome to Cafe Italia, an authentic Italian cafe nestled in the heart of the Bronx's Hunts Point section. This local business has successfully carved out a niche by offering a genuine Italian soul and flavor, providing a touch of Old World Italy right here in New York City. For anyone in the Bronx or surrounding boroughs looking for high-quality, fresh, and authentically prepared Italian fare, Cafe Italia is a must-visit destination. It's more than just a cafe; it's a neighborhood hub built on a foundation of community, tradition, and a deep appreciation for top-tier ingredients.

The ethos of Cafe Italia, founded by Mama Santoro and brought to life by local New Yorkers, revolves around delivering an authentic Italian experience—from bold espresso and creamy cappuccino to carefully crafted sandwiches and imported Italian retail goods. Whether you're a local resident, a business professional, or simply someone craving a true taste of Italy, this spot is designed to make you feel right at home. It’s an ideal setting for gathering, eating, and shopping for some of the finest Italian products available locally. The atmosphere is consistently described as a cozy Italian cafe with chill music, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your meal.

The menu selection is a testament to Italian culinary tradition and local New York flavors, blending the best of both worlds. While it operates with the efficiency and variety of a cafe, deli, sandwich shop, and even a lunch restaurant, the commitment to quality and authenticity in every item sets it apart. The signature sandwiches, in particular, have garnered a loyal following, praised for their incredible freshness and the use of high-quality, often imported, ingredients. The sheer variety ensures that there is something for every palate, from the classic Caprese to complex, loaded heroes packed with premium Italian cold cuts.

One of the most praised aspects of the establishment is the staff, consistently described as friendly, accommodating, and contributing to the excellent overall experience. This focus on community and customer service is a core part of the business's identity, making every visit a pleasant one. The concept beautifully marries the old-school Italian kitchen feel with a modern Bronx vibe, creating a welcoming environment that locals are proud to call their own. For those who value a personal touch and authentic dining, Cafe Italia is the place to be.

Location and Accessibility

Cafe Italia is conveniently located in the Hunts Point neighborhood of the Bronx, a central and accessible spot for local patrons and those commuting through the area. You can find this authentic Italian gem at:

500 Tiffany St, Bronx, NY 10474, USA

For New Yorkers in the Hunts Point or surrounding Bronx areas, this location is straightforward to reach. The business is conscious of customer convenience, particularly regarding accessibility and parking, a valuable consideration in a bustling city environment.

Accessibility features include a wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring the cafe is welcoming to all members of the community. For those driving, free street parking is available, which is a significant amenity for a New York City eatery. These practical details underscore Cafe Italia's commitment to serving a broad local clientele efficiently and comfortably. The combination of easy access and local charm makes it an appealing stop for a morning coffee, a midday meal, or an evening bite.

The cafe is a cornerstone in its immediate area, contributing to the local flavor and providing a much-needed source of high-quality, authentic Italian goods and cuisine without requiring residents to travel miles outside their neighborhood. This local presence strengthens its role as a true community staple in the Bronx.

Services Offered

Cafe Italia operates as a multi-faceted food service provider, catering to a variety of customer needs throughout the day. Their offerings extend far beyond typical cafe fare, positioning them as a comprehensive deli and Italian specialty shop.

• No-Contact Delivery: Customers can enjoy their favorite Italian dishes and coffee conveniently delivered with a no-contact option.
• Delivery and Takeout: Standard delivery and in-person takeout services are available for those on the go or preferring to dine at home or the office.
• Dine-in Service: Guests are welcome to sit and enjoy their meal in the cozy, welcoming Italian cafe setting.
• Full Breakfast Menu: A wide selection of morning staples, from Egg Sandwiches and Bagels to Italian-inspired options like the "Italian Wake Up" (eggs, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, and Capicola).
• Signature and Custom Sandwiches: A robust menu of carefully crafted signature sandwiches, such as "The Godfather," "La Madrina," and "The Caprese," along with the option to build your own sandwich.
• Build Your Own Meal Options: Featuring Bowls, Wraps, and Salads with various add-ons like Grilled Chicken or Grilled Steak.
• Specialty Coffee and Lattes: A complete coffee bar offering Drip Coffee, Espresso, Americano, Macchiato, Cortado, Cappuccino, Latte, and Caramel Latte, available in various sizes.
• Fresh Squeezed Juices and Smoothies: Including Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice, customizable smoothies, and protein shakes.
• Cold Cuts and Cheeses (by the pound): Selling a variety of high-quality imported Italian meats (e.g., Prosciutto Di Parma, Mortadella, Soppressata) and cheeses (e.g., Fresh Water Mozzarella, Primo Sale Peppercorn Cheese).
• Anti-Pasti and Salads: Offering items like Roasted Peppers, Stuffed Peppers, and the substantial "Calabrese Salad."
• Pastries and Retail Goods: A selection of freshly baked pastries (e.g., Apple Turnover, Black & White Cookies) and imported canned/jarred Italian goods.
• Beverage Selection: A range of non-alcoholic drinks including bottled water, soda, and imported Italian sodas.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments for seamless transactions.

Features / Highlights

Cafe Italia stands out in the New York food scene, particularly in the Bronx, due to several key features that enhance the customer experience and the quality of its offerings. These highlights showcase the business's dedication to authenticity and customer satisfaction.

• Authentic Italian Ingredients: A core feature is the consistent use of authentic and imported Italian meats, cheeses, and retail products, ensuring a true Italian flavor profile in their dishes.
• Exceptional Signature Sandwiches: The quality of their sandwiches, described by customers as the "most delicious you will ever have," with fresh bread and top-quality ingredients, is a major draw. Favorites include "The Godfather" and "La Madrina."
• Gourmet Coffee Program: The cafe takes pride in its coffee, with the cappuccino often highlighted as "delicious and comforting" and some of the best in the area, using rich espresso and steamed milk to create a velvety foam.
• Freshness and Quality: Emphasis on fresh ingredients, including daily made fresh mozzarella, home-baked roasted peppers, and freshly squeezed natural orange juice.
• Community-Focused Vibe: The atmosphere is welcoming, with a cozy setting, chill music, and a friendly, accommodating staff, fostering a local gathering spot.
• Dual Role as Deli/Retail Shop: Beyond prepared meals, the ability to purchase high-quality imported Italian cold cuts, cheeses, and specialty canned/jarred goods by the pound makes it a convenient stop for home cooks.
• Homemade Taste: The Biscotti is specifically noted by customers to taste "like it was made by Nonna," a powerful indicator of authentic, home-style preparation.
• Dining Area Availability: Unlike some grab-and-go establishments, the cafe provides tables where customers can sit and enjoy their meal at a relaxed pace.

Contact Information

For New Yorkers looking to visit, place an order, or inquire about Cafe Italia, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 500 Tiffany St, Bronx, NY 10474, USA

Phone: (718) 930-0053

What is Worth Choosing

If you are visiting Cafe Italia for the first time, or looking for the standout items that have earned the cafe its reputation, a few items consistently rise to the top of customer recommendations. The combination of authentic Italian deli culture and expertly prepared beverages is what truly defines the experience.

Firstly, you absolutely must try one of their Signature Sandwiches. The hype is real—customers rave about the quality, freshness, and magical way the ingredients are assembled. Consider the renowned "The Godfather" (Prosciutto Di Parma, pepperoni, genoa salame, capicola, provolone, mortadella, sopperssata) or the highly praised "La Madrina" (Prosciutto di Parma, genoa salame, sweet sopressata, capicola, provolone, sweet cherry peppers). The quality of the imported meats and fresh bread is the foundation for an unforgettable meal. For a unique experience, the "Walk in the Park" with Prosciutto Di Parma and shaved Locatelli Pecorino Romano is another highly recommended choice.

Secondly, don't miss out on the coffee. The Cappuccino is a highlight, described as "the best," "delicious and comforting," and a perfect way to start your day or cap off your lunch. Paired with one of their fresh Pastries or the homemade-tasting Biscotti, it completes the classic Italian cafe experience. The quality of the espresso and the velvety foam of the cappuccino will transport you straight to a Roman street corner.

Finally, for a fresh and wholesome option, the Avocado Toast is noted as an excellent choice, showcasing the cafe’s ability to execute modern favorites with the same attention to quality as their traditional Italian fare. For those seeking something truly unique, the savory breakfast option, the Italian Wake Up, with farm-fresh eggs, oven-baked roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, and hot or sweet Capicola, is a hearty and authentic start to any day. The ability to buy their premium Italian Cheeses and Meats by the pound is also a unique and valuable service for locals who want to bring the taste of Italy home.

Cafe Italia

500 Tiffany St, Bronx, NY 10474, USA