Known as New Jersey’s Little Italy, Hoboken has long had a vibrant Italian-American community. It’s also celebrated as the birthplace of Frank Sinatra, who was born there to Italian-American immigrants.
The legacy from the Italians who first settled in Hoboken in the 1880s can still be found throughout the Mile Square City, with its remarkable collection of old-school Italian restaurants, delis and bakeries.
While checking out the Italian delicacies that the city has to offer, you may feel like you’re walking into a scene from The Sopranos or The Godfather—which is half the fun!
For an eating tour of Hoboken’s old-school Italian eateries, including bakeries, delis and restaurants, here’s a selection of some of the best places to go:
Carlo’s Bakery
For bakeries, start with the most famous spot—the original home of Buddy Valastro’s bake shop, which became the setting of popular TLC television series Cake Boss. Fans still flock here to try the Italian pastries and cakes. The cannoli is definitely worth sampling. (And if you’re closer to the Shore, Valastro opened his latest venture, Buddy’s Boardwalk Empire, in Atlantic City this summer!)
95 Washington Street; 201-659-3671
Antique Bar & Bakery
Formerly an Italian bakery (which moved to a location in Jersey City), this spot has expanded into a very hip restaurant and bar. It’s so popular that they even sell merch now!
122 Willow Avenue; 201-683-7028
Fiore’s House of Quality
Roast beef with red and hot peppers on a toasted roll. Photo: Courtesy of Fiore’s House of Quality
This place is about as much of a Hoboken institution as you can get. Located near the house where Frank Sinatra grew up (415 Monroe Street), there are usually lines out the door for, in my opinion, the best mutz (mozzarella) in Hoboken, as well as roasted red peppers and roast beef. Walk in and grab a long Italian roll in the bin near the door, then hand it to the person at the counter, who will create your delicious sandwich. Anyone who is anyone in Hoboken eats here—I used to see the former mayor double-parked outside! (P.S. There’s even a small parking lot, which is unusual for this tiny city!)
414 Adams Street; 201-659-1655
Lisa’s Deli
I discovered this classic Italian deli when I lived in Hoboken, and I’m so glad that I did. It serves incredible sandwiches and prepared food, including pasta dishes and salads. Service is friendly, too.
901 Park Avenue; 201-795-3212
Piccolos Famous Cheesesteaks
You can find this place by following the sound of Frank Sinatra, whose songs are often piped outside the establishment. A must-visit spot for its cheesesteaks, corned beef, hot dogs and more.
92 Clinton Street; call the owner, Patty Boy, at 201-653-0564
Benny Tudino’s
How can a slice of pizza be this big? They’re so large, they actually fall off a regular-sized plate! In business for over 50 years, Benny Tudino’s also serves traditional Italian dishes.
622 Washington Street; 201-792-4132
Leo’s Grandevous
This charming restaurant/bar has been around since 1939. Located on Grand Street, they were at one time known to have only Frank Sinatra music on their jukebox. Go for the traditional Italian fare, but stay for the atmosphere. They also have specials: Monday is Martha’s meatloaf; Wednesday, three-meat lasagna; Thursday, ossobuco; Friday, Tessie’s famous stuffed calamari.
200 Grand Street; 201-659-9467
Vito’s and Son Italian Deli
Another classic Hoboken Italian deli, this one on the main drag of Washington Street. They claim to have Hoboken’s best fresh mozzarella.
806 Washington Street; 201-792-4944
Losurdo’s Italian Deli and Bread Bakery
The Losurdo brothers came from Italy and have operated at the same location since they started their business in 1975. Their Instagram account is updated daily with specials. Losurdo’s sells traditional Italian breads and deli items, including prosciutto, soppressata, provolone and olives. Their specialty pastry is the sfogliatelle, a sweet ricotta-filled treat.
410 2nd Street; 201-659-4766
Prato Bakery
Prato Bakery in Hoboken
This Italian bakery offers a selection of pizza, breads (from ciabatta to filone to Tuscan) and focaccia sandwiches. Sweet breads and coffee are on the menu, too. (They also have locations in Jersey City.)
201 Washington Street; 201-798-8900
Dolce & Salato
This neighborhood spot, open for breakfast and lunch, serves salads, sandwiches, authentic Italian pastries and coffee. The owners’ goal was to bring their Italian heritage from Molfetta and Palermo to Hoboken. They sell several food products sourced directly from Italy.
1101 Grand Street; 201-420-9182
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