The Bronx is just a short subway ride from Manhattan. The Bronx is NYC’s northern borough and is definitely must-see. It is a place full of rich history and amazing food. Who better to enlighten us about the best places to eat, drink and sleep than Bronx native, Diego León? Here is his ultimate guide to staying, eating, and drinking in the Bronx.
Stay
Opera House Hotel
This Opera House Hotel is a great place to stay if you are looking for historic charm with wonderful amenities. This building is a Bronx landmark and has been newly renovated with multi-million-dollar historic preservation. It is definitely a must-see.
Mott Haven Guest House
If you prefer an Airbnb, you must check out the Mott Haven House. It houses up to 4 guests and is just steps away from the New York City Subway. Mott House Haven boasts exposed brickwork and beautiful art and photography from local Bronx artists. This spot has been rated 5 stars by guests, so it is perfect for your next stay in the Bronx.
Morris Guest House
This lovely guest house is located in the Tremont neighbourhood. It is only 2 miles away from Yankee Stadium and a mere 13-minute subway ride from Midtown Manhattan. The rooms are on the smaller side and do have a shared bathroom. But, the price, the awesome decor, and location make it a nice place to stay. Also walking distance to The Bronx’s Little Italy.
Residence Inn by Marriott New York the Bronx at Metro Center Atrium
This pet-friendly hotel is located near the Bronx Zoo and City Island if seafood is your jam. It is a great choice for those looking for spacious hotel rooms with a fully stocked kitchen. It even features a free daily breakfast buffet. This hotel is ideal for those who are staying for a while.
Eat
Empanology
There may be nothing more delicious than a good empanada and, at Empanology, the empanadas are top notch. This Bronx staple takes traditional Puerto Rican empanadas and elevates them a notch. This is a great restaurant for a quick, tasty, bite. Be sure to try the Nobody’s Chicken empanada made with vodka sauce. For dessert, the cookie dough empanada is absolutely decadent.
Zero Otto Nove
For mouthwatering Italian food check out Zero Otto Nove located in The Bronx’s Little Italy, the real Little Italy! It has lovely pasta dishes, pizza, and many other options. The interior will transport you to a small town in Italy. This is a wonderful spot for a date night or a nice business dinner.
Havana Café
Havana Café offers authentic Cuban food in a cool and inviting atmosphere. This Michelin rated restaurant offers Cuban food with a twist. Try the pizza Cubano for a dish, unlike anything you have ever tried. Also, the Cubano sandwich will keep you coming back.
Mott Haven Bar
The Mott Haven Bar is definitely more than your average bar. It offers great food and a great variety. Mott Haven focuses on food that is healthy, organic, and non-GMO without sacrificing taste. It also has an extensive takeout menu for those nights you don’t feel like eating out.
Drink
The Bronx Beer Hall
For a truly New York experience head over to the Bronx Beer Hall. They are proud to serve a large selection of New York craft beers. They also focus on beers made by artisans right in the Bronx. Bronx Bear Hall also have a great menu of food that you don’t want to miss.
The Bronx Brewery
The Bronx Brewery is known for its “no-nonsense ales.” It creates its own unique craft brews that are reflective of the Bronx culture. It focuses on the hard work and the interesting history of the people of the Bronx and turns that into excellent brews. This is a place where you will see the true character of the Bronx. As a bonus, they have a back yard!
Gunhill Brewing
At Gunhill Brewing, its owners wanted to bring the tradition of beer brewing back to the area. They focus on creating brews that are unfiltered and handcrafted. They wish to use only local and fresh ingredients to create beer that is truly a masterpiece. If you like dark brews, try the award-winning Void of Light.
Port Morris Distillery
The tradition of distilleries with roots from Puerto Rico. It is sort of like a rum, but much stronger. The owners of Port Morris felt that the Bronx was a great place to set up shop. They took their family tradition of moonshine from Puerto Rico and brought it to New York with a Bronx spin. It is truly a unique experience that will not be forgotten.
Follow Diego at @dandyinthebronx on Instagram.
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