Belmont, Bronx: From NYC’s “Real” Little Italy to the Bronx Zoo’ Webinar
Where: Bronx Library Center
310 E. Kingsbridge Road
718-579-4244 Price: $10
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What’s so special about New York City’s neighborhood of Belmont, you ask? From over 30 mom & pop shops serving everything from tantalizing cheeses and sausages to warm bread and freshly-filled cannoli — to being home to a world-premiere zoo, botanical garden, and university — this Italian community is steeped in history, not to mention some of the best food in the Big Apple. But how did this Bronx neighborhood go from a rural enclave to a lively hub for food, arts, and culture? It’s time to take a virtual trip to the “old neighborhood” and understand why it has a special place in the hearts of hundreds of thousands of Italian-Americans in the metropolitan area.
Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the Bronx neighborhood of Belmont — often referred to as Arthur Ave, this close-knit neighborhood dating back centuries has been home to dozens of eateries that showcase the authentic tastes of Italy, earning it the reputation of the “Real” Little Italy of New York City.
Led by Susan Mills Birnbaum — licensed NYC tour guide, food lover, and history buff — our digital showcase of Belmont will include:
- A historical overview of the Bronx neighborhood of Belmont, including a look at its most famous educational and cultural institutions such as Fordham University, New York Botanical Gardens, and Bronx Zoo
- The contributions of the Lorillard family to the neighborhood, along with those of immigrants who built some of the neighborhood’s most iconic institutions and local establishments
- A discussion around the Italian establishments on Arthur Avenue, ranging from butchers and delis, to cheese shops and fishmongers, to bakeries and bread shops
- Stories of the “survivors” — the 3rd, 4th, or even 5th generation family-owned shops
- A peek at the recent arrivals on the culinary scene including Albanian and Mexican fare, along with the lively festivals and feasts that pack the streets with people from the tri-state area
Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Susan — any and all questions about the Bronx are welcomed and encouraged!
Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!
See you there, virtually! $10.
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
About Susan
Susan Mills Birnbaum, owner and operator of SusanSez NYC Walkabouts, is a native New Yorker obsessed with its history and food. Since 2002, Susan has been a licensed NYC Sightseeing Guide. She is also a member of the Guides Association of New York City (GANYC).
She’s had a lifelong interest in history (earning her Bachelors in History from Hunter College), is a member of many NYC historical societies, and volunteers as a docent at the Museum of the City of New York.
Along with history, Susan has a true passion for people (earning her Masters of Social Work from Rutgers University) and loves nothing more than to share with tourists and natives alike the best food, shopping, art, and architecture of her “hometown.”
Susan’s love for New York is infectious and her tours surprise even native New Yorkers who find themselves discovering its untold history. Taking a tour with this quirky and witty New Yorker is a sure way to explore the little-known treasures that make her “backyard” the most vibrant city in the world.
Buy tickets/get more info now