Top 10 Places To Eat In and Around Riverdale
With more than 24,000 restaurants, delis and eateries in New York City to choose from, it’s difficult to know where to begin. Luckily, the Riverdale area houses many top-rated restaurants heralding a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences.
1. Tin Marin
Just a short stroll from campus, this Spanish eatery serves up succulent tapas in a relaxing yet vibrant atmosphere — a welcome reprieve from midterm papers or final exams. There are plenty of choices for vegetarians or meat lovers alike, from caprese empanadas to ham croquettes. Live music by local artists sets a sparkling ambiance for late night diners.
2. Trattoria Zero Otto Nove
If you can’t take Manhattan College’s winemaking course in Florence, Italy, the next best thing is visiting Trattoria Zero Otto Nove. Set one foot in the door, and you’ll find yourself on a charming street in Naples. Although the Neapolitan pizza is the focus of the menu (check out the authentic wood-burning oven!), it also offers a full southern Italian bill of fare.
3. The Original Crab Shanty Restaurant
If you’re craving a seafood feast, split a Zipcar with friends and hit the road. Savor epic portions of shrimp parmigiana, soft shell crab or whole lobster while taking in waterfront views of Pelham Bay.
4. Estrellita Poblana
This is a perfect restaurant to take the family while they’re visiting campus for convocation or graduation. A few of the best dishes are the enchiladas, burritos, chimichangas and tres leches for dessert. If you’re looking for quality Mexican food, this is the place to go.
5. Michaelangelo’s Little Italy
If you’re conducting research with faculty at the Bronx Zoo or exploring the New York Botanical Garden with friends, check out Michaelangelo’s, which is just around the corner. Order the stuffed mushrooms, pizza or lobster ravioli —and enjoy outdoor seating when the sun is out!
6. Beccofino
Craving the authenticity of Little Italy and Arthur Avenue, without the trek? This classic Italian restaurant is much closer to campus, and is just as good. Beccofino boasts a towering menu of old-world Italian favorites, like chicken parmesan, penne a la vodka and baked manicotti. The cozy 50-person dining room doesn’t take reservations, but the wait is always well worth it.
7. Jake’s Steakhouse
A quick five-minute walk from the 1 Train, Jake’s features a date-worthy upscale environment that is often overlooked by students. The filet mignon is to die for, but you don’t have to go big to get a spectacular meal. The sliders and clam chowder are both excellent choices and easier on the bank account.
8. El Malecon
This Zagat-rated restaurant serves up fresh, authentic Caribbean food on the cheap. The menu features filling seafood platters, mofongos and pastas, but don’t miss the tres leche appetizer or their famous rotisserie chicken — it really is famous!
9. Bronx Alehouse
A hidden gem right off Broadway features craft brews and classic pub grub reimagined. You can enjoy bottomless FREE popcorn while you wait for your food. Known for their bacon burgers, spicy wings and “bombers” (sliders), the Alehouse leaves few options for vegetarians.
10. Salvatore’s of Soho
On the corner of Riverdale Ave. & 238th St., Salvatore’s is a Manhattan College must. The café-style dining area provides a small yet intimate setting great for lunch or dinner. The menu is filled with classic Italian food like sausage and peppers, paninis, and fried calamari. Don’t forget, for those 21-plus, it’s BYOB.