Best Restaurants in Belmont Bronx

Arthur Avenue in Belmont Bronx is the beating heart of New York City's Italian dining scene. Known for its authentic Italian-American restaurants, this neighborhood offers a culinary experience steeped in tradition. With roots tracing back to early 20th-century immigrants, Belmont is a haven for those seeking genuine Italian flavors without the pretension of high-end dining. The scene is dominated by family-run establishments that have stood the test of time, offering dishes that reflect the rich heritage of Calabria, Sicily, and beyond. Here's where to eat if you want a taste of real Little Italy.

Enzo's Of Arthur Avenue

Enzo's Of Arthur Avenue, located at 2339 Arthur Avenue, is a sensory delight with dim lighting over white tablecloths and the aroma of garlic and simmering tomato sauce. The atmosphere is alive with the clatter of plates and the hum of opera music, drawing Bronx families, zoo visitors, and out-of-towners. Opened in 2005 by the Enzo family, this spot blends tradition with modern twists like wood-fired pizzas.

Enzo's is known for its tender veal parmigiana ($32) and margherita pizza ($18). However, the restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, often turning away large groups without notice. While five-star reviews praise the attentive service, some diners complain about overpriced wine and inconsistent portions. “Finally found Bronx Italian that slaps harder than Manhattan fakes,” one reviewer notes.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, Enzo's is a must-visit for those craving authentic Italian dishes. Go here for the veal parmigiana and to experience a slice of Bronx history in every bite.

Zero Otto Nove Trattoria

Zero Otto Nove Trattoria at 2357 Arthur Avenue exudes warmth with its wood-paneled walls and the scent of basil and pizza oven char. The moderate hum of diners and the sizzle from the grill create a lively atmosphere. Local couples, extended families, and Italian expats gather here, often catching a soccer game on the corner TVs.

Chef Tomaso di Chiara, who expanded from Manhattan in 2006, fires everything in a massive brick oven. The Neapolitan pizza margherita ($20) and rigatoni Bolognese ($26) are menu highlights. While five-star reviews rave about the blistered crusts and fresh ingredients, some diners gripe about 45-minute waits and tight booths. “Pizza so good I forgot I'm in the Bronx,” says one satisfied customer.

Open daily, Zero Otto Nove is perfect for pizza lovers willing to brave the wait. The Neapolitan pizza is worth every minute spent in line.

Antonio's Trattoria

Antonio's Trattoria, found at 2370 Arthur Avenue, buzzes with fluorescent lights over red banquettes and the smell of frying eggplant and red wine. The noise from plate stacks and laughter fills the air, with neighborhood old-timers and multi-generational families packing the tables. Family-run since the 1990s, Antonio's stays true to its Sicilian roots.

This cash-only spot requires grabbing a number at the door on weekends, and there's no kids' menu. Signature dishes include eggplant parmigiana ($24) and spaghetti carbonara ($22). Five-star reviews highlight generous portions and homemade pasta, while one-star reviews mention slow service and sticky tables. “Nonna's kitchen if she chain-smoked garlic,” quips a regular.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, Antonio's Trattoria is where you go for comfort food that feels like a family affair. The eggplant parmigiana is a standout, offering a taste of Sicily in every bite.

Ann & Tony's

Ann & Tony's at 2407 Arthur Avenue is a nostalgic trip with faded photos lining paneled walls and the scent of simmering ragu and bread. The din of cutlery and Bronx accents fills the air, with lifelong locals and family reunions crowding the vinyl booths. Family-owned since 1927, it's now run by two brothers and their mom, using great-grandpa's recipes.

This cash-only establishment doesn't split checks over four and encourages family-style orders. The chicken scarpariello ($28) and penne alla vodka ($22) are menu highlights. Five-star reviews praise the century-old taste and warmth, while one-star reviews complain of dated decor and short pours. “Eating history, sauce thicker than my accent,” a patron notes.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, Ann & Tony's is where you dine if you want to savor history on a plate. The chicken scarpariello is a must for those who appreciate time-honored recipes.

Frankies Restaurant Arthur Ave

Frankies Restaurant Arthur Ave, located at 2376 Arthur Avenue, glows with brick walls under string lights and the smell of cheesy lasagna and spicy vodka sauce. The buzz from groups and fryer pops creates a vibrant setting. Post-church families and Arthur Avenue regulars fill the space, enjoying baked pastas in Little Italy style.

Open daily, Frankies offers spicy rigatoni vodka ($24) and Frankies lasagna ($26). While five-star reviews love the gooey cheese pulls and portions, one-stars fault bland sauces and rude rushes. “Lasagna baked so long it's a brick of joy,” one customer exclaims.

Frankies is the spot for hearty portions and a lively atmosphere. The spicy rigatoni vodka is a dish that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Joe's Italian Deli

Joe's Italian Deli at 2389 Arthur Avenue features sawdust floors under harsh fluorescents with the smell of cured salami and sharp provolone. The counter clangs from slicers and orders yelled in dialect, with construction workers and quick-lunch cops lining up. This fourth-generation deli has been sourcing meats from nearby butchers since the 1920s.

Cash only, Joe's builds your hero as you point, with no modifications allowed. The Italian combo hero ($12) and prosciutto sandwich ($11) are favorites. Five-star reviews hype fresh bread and massive stacks, while one-stars note surly staff and wilted lettuce. “Hero so stacked it fights back,” says a regular.

Open Monday to Sunday, Joe's Italian Deli is the place for a hero that stands tall. The Italian combo hero is a must for those who appreciate a classic deli experience.

Calabria Pork Store

Calabria Pork Store at 2338 Arthur Avenue is a carnivore's dream with meathooks dangling soppressata amid woodsmoke and fennel whiffs. The slicer whirs over local gossip, with butchers' families and Calabrian expats shopping and eating. Operating since the 1930s, it offers hot soppressata hanging ceiling-style from immigrant founders.

Cash only, customers are encouraged to ask for tastes but must buy a full pound. The pork soppressata sandwich ($10) and capocollo hero ($13) are popular choices. Five-star reviews celebrate spicy cures and authenticity, while one-stars call it greasy and pricey per pound. “Meat heaven for those who know,” a fan declares.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, Calabria Pork Store is where you go for authentic Italian meats. The pork soppressata sandwich is a spicy delight for meat lovers.

Practical Advice & Insider Tips

For the best experience, visit these spots between 2-4pm on weekdays to avoid lines. First-timers should order veal or eggplant parmigiana at any of the listed venues. Most places prefer cash, so carry small bills totaling around $50. Take the 4 train to Kingsbridge Road and enjoy an 8-minute walk south on Arthur Avenue. Avoid Zero Otto Nove if you dislike waiting for pizza, and be prepared for street parking challenges midweek, especially on Sundays.