Little Italy

San Jose's Little Italy is a small but proud Italian district just north of downtown, centered around North Almaden Avenue and North San Pedro Street. Stop into the old-school delis for sandwiches and imported goods, check out the murals celebrating the neighborhood's heritage, and time a visit to one of its seasonal festivals if you can. It's a compact pocket rather than a sprawling district, so pair it with a walk through nearby downtown or the San Pedro Square Market to round out the outing.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is Little Italy actually Italian anymore?

Less than the name suggests. The Italian community largely moved to other parts of the city decades ago, and the strip is now a mixed bar and restaurant scene. A few Italian spots, cafes, and gelato remain, but come for a night out rather than authenticity.

How do I get to Little Italy?

The 506 College streetcar is the direct route. From the subway, take Line 1 to Queen's Park and transfer to the 506 westbound, or Line 2 to Bathurst and come south. It's very walkable once you're on College.

Where can I get gelato in Little Italy?

The Sicilian Sidewalk Cafe (Sicilian Ice Cream) on College is a longtime institution and one of the oldest gelato spots in the city. It's a nice, low-key stop while you're strolling the strip on a warm evening.

Is Little Italy good for nightlife?

Yes, that's arguably its strongest suit now. College Street has a dense run of bars, from the Hail Mary speakeasy and Track & Field games bar to the long-running El Convento Rico drag nightclub. It gets busy on weekend nights.

Is Little Italy worth visiting?

For an evening of patios, cocktails, and a good dinner, yes. As a daytime sightseeing destination it's quiet and unremarkable. Go after dark, ideally in patio weather, and you'll get the best of it.

What are the best restaurants in Little Italy?

Bar Raval is the showstopper for Spanish tapas and one of the prettiest rooms in the city. There's also quality Italian at spots like Trattoria Taverniti, and Quetzal nearby earned a Michelin star for modern Mexican. It's a broader food scene than the name implies.

When is Taste of Little Italy?

It's a summer street festival on College Street, typically in June, with food vendors, music, and big crowds. Check the official site for exact dates each year. It's fun but extremely packed, so weigh that before planning your visit around it.

Where is Little Italy in Toronto?

It's the stretch of College Street roughly between Bathurst and Ossington, west of downtown. The 506 College streetcar runs right down the middle of it. Look for the Italian flags and the Sicilian Sidewalk Cafe landmark.

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