In the P.P. (pre-pandemic) era, Little Italy was bustling with a constant stream of tourists, drunk birthday party revelers, and a smattering of hosts belting out Frank Sinatra tunes. Perhaps this is why the last two months have felt particularly dead on the iconic stretch of Mulberry Street.

Home to several independently owned, multi-generational restaurants with comforting interiors, live music and outdoor seating, these aren’t spots one associates with takeout. After all, the dine-in experience and hospitality is the real draw.