Viator Rating : 5 (1194 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.2/10 (Solid Experience)
New York City
NYC Mafia Tour: Food, Crime & NYPD Stories
210
Overview
The New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour led by NYPD Guides offers a unique experience to explore the city's dark history and delicious cuisine. This isn't your typical tour; it's a 'walk with stories' led by active and retired NYPD officers and local residents who have firsthand knowledge of the mafia's presence in New York City.
On this tour, participants will walk the streets where infamous mafia figures once strolled, visiting notorious crime locations in the East Village and Little Italy. The tour begins at a famous Mafia "Red Sauce Joint," like those seen in "The Sopranos" and "Get Gotti." Expect to visit iconic locations such as John's of 12th Street, St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery, the Basilica of Saint Patrick's Old Cathedral, and the Little Italy Movie Backdrop. Participants will hear true crime stories and enjoy authentic food from the neighborhood, equivalent to a full three-course dinner.
This half-day walking tour includes spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant rollatini parm, and a Sicilian cannoli. Headsets are provided to ensure everyone can hear the insider stories from retired NYPD guides and NYC mafia experts. Vegetarian options are available with advanced request. The tour accommodates a small group size and is suitable for those interested in historical tours and true crime stories. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (4 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (5 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (6 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Real NYPD Guides: Hear firsthand stories from retired NYPD officers and local Mafia experts.
Delicious Italian Food: Enjoy a full 3-course dinner with spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant rollatini parm, and cannoli.
Iconic Mafia Locations: Walk the streets of Little Italy and the East Village, visiting famous crime spots.
Headsets Provided: Don't miss any details with provided headsets ensuring clear audio during the tour.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers love hearing real stories from the guides.
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Many enjoyed the food, calling it a highlight.
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Visitors appreciated seeing real Mafia spots and learning about the history.
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Customers found the tour guides very knowledgable about the Mafia
Some found that drinks not being included added extra cost.
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Some customers would have preferred more time in the various locations.
The Journey
John's of 12th Street
Step back in time at John's of 12th Street, a legendary 'Red Sauce Joint' in the East Village with a rich history intertwined with the Italian Mafia. Founded in 1908, this iconic restaurant served as a speakeasy during Prohibition, and a notorious meeting place for mobsters, including the site of the 1922 assassination of Umberto Rocco Valenti. Experience the old-world charm, indulge in classic Italian dishes, and soak in the atmosphere that has made John's a favorite among locals and a popular filming location for shows like 'Boardwalk Empire' and 'The Sopranos'.
Manhattan Island
Explore the heart of New York City on Manhattan Island, the smallest and most densely populated borough. As the economic, administrative, and cultural hub, Manhattan boasts iconic landmarks, world-class museums, bustling financial districts, and vibrant entertainment venues. From the towering skyscrapers of Midtown to the historic streets of Lower Manhattan, immerse yourself in the energy and excitement that define this global metropolis.
St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery
Discover a haven of tranquility at St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery, a historic Episcopal parish in the East Village. As the oldest site of continuous religious practice in New York City, dating back to the mid-17th century, this architectural gem offers a glimpse into the city's spiritual past. Admire its stunning architecture, explore its serene grounds, and attend a service or event to experience the church's vibrant community and artistic legacy.
East Village and Lower East Side Tenements
Delve into the history of immigration and urbanization in the East Village and Lower East Side. During the 19th century, this area transformed into one of the most densely populated in the city, marked by subdivided tenements. Walk the streets and reflect on the stories of countless immigrants who shaped the cultural fabric of New York City.
Basilica of Saint Patrick's Old Cathedral
Visit the Basilica of Saint Patrick's Old Cathedral, a historic Catholic church and former cathedral of the Archdiocese of New York, located in Nolita. Built between 1809 and 1815 in the Gothic Revival style, this architectural masterpiece showcases stunning stained glass windows, intricate details, and a peaceful atmosphere. Explore the basilica's rich history, attend a mass, or simply admire its beauty and significance.
Little Italy
Experience the vibrant flavors and traditions of Little Italy, a historic neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. Although its Italian character has diminished in recent decades, Little Italy still offers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, culture, and community. Don't miss the annual Feast of San Gennaro, a lively celebration held every year following Labor Day, with food stalls, music, and entertainment along Mulberry Street. Explore the filming locations of movies like 'The Godfather Part II' and savor the essence of Italian heritage in the heart of New York City.
Little Italy Movie Backdrop
Capture unforgettable photos against the iconic backdrop of Little Italy. These buildings, featured in countless movies and TV series, provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the neighborhood's cinematic history. Explore the streets, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories in this culturally rich and visually stunning location.
Cannoli at Little Italy
Indulge in a classic Sicilian treat at Little Italy: a full-sized cannoli. Experience the perfect combination of a crispy shell and creamy, sweet filling. Sample the flavors of old-world Italian baking and savor a moment of pure culinary delight in this historic neighborhood.
Know Before You Go
This New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour includes spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant rollatini parm, and a Sicilian cannoli. Participants will get to hear insider stories from retired NYPD guides and NYC Mafia experts. Headsets are provided. Vegetarian options are available with advanced request. Drinks and gratuities are not included and can be purchased on the day. Transportation is not included. The meeting point is at a central location in Manhattan.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour. Bring extra money for drinks and tips. If you have dietary restrictions, inform the tour operator in advance to accommodate vegetarian options. Be prepared to hear real-life stories that may be a bit intense.
Review Summary
People finds this tour exceptional for its authentic NYPD-guided mafia stories and generous food portions equivalent to a full dinner, with frequent praise for engaging guides like Dennis and Frank who share personal experiences from Little Italy streets.[1][2][3][4] Highlights include true crime details, cannoli, and insider access not found elsewhere; minor notes mention strong language and walking distance, but 98% recommend it as NYC's top experience with over 2,200 five-star ratings.[5][6]
Frequently Asked Questions
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