New York in 1 Day for Friends - Meet at the historic John's of 12th Street for a classic red‑sauce introduction
In Collaboration with Tourocity LLC. Updated on February 6, 2026.
A 3.5-hour guided walk through the East Village and Little Italy led by former NYPD officers. Start at a historic 'red‑sauce' joint for spaghetti and meatballs, follow true‑crime stories through the streets where mobsters walked, enjoy a second sit‑down tasting, and finish with an iconic Sicilian cannoli.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Tourocity LLC, inspired by the tour New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour led by NYPD Guides. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Meet at the historic John's of 12th Street for a classic red‑sauce introduction
- Guided true‑crime storytelling by retired NYPD officers in East Village & Little Italy
- Two sit‑down tastings plus a Sicilian cannoli at a famed bakery
- Walk past famous mob sites, Mulberry Street and Bowery landmarks
- Small‑group, insider access and local shop connections
Itinerary
Day 1
Late‑afternoon / early‑evening walking tour (meets at 302 E 12th St). Comfortable spring weather—light jacket recommended.
Meet & Welcome — John's of 12th Street (302 E 12th St)
Meet your NYPD guide and group at John's of 12th Street for an introduction to the tour and your first sit‑down tasting: classic spaghetti and meatballs at a historic red‑sauce joint.
Tips from local experts:
- Order family‑style to share — the group friendly portions make it easy (and cheaper) to taste more later.
- Bring a small cash tip for kitchen/server staff (many friends chip in).
- Spring evenings can still be cool — sit indoors if you prefer air conditioning or ask for a corner table for easy group photos.
East Village: St. Mark's Place walk & True‑Crime Overview
Walk the East Village while your guide outlines the rise of New York crime families, hierarchy, and personal anecdotes tied to the neighborhood.
Tips from local experts:
- Good spot for candid group photos — ask your guide for the best angle away from traffic.
- Keep a phone‑charger or power bank handy; lively streets mean lots of photo opportunities for friends.
- If anyone needs a restroom, point out nearby cafés before long stretches of walking — short breaks keep the group fresh.
Bowery & Houston — Urban garden stop and mob connection
Short walk to the Bowery & Houston area to visit an urban garden space while the guide connects the site to local crime history and neighborhood development.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop is small and intimate — step to the side if you want a quiet moment or a group photo without crowds.
- Spring brings blooms — a good time for colorful shots; bring a lightweight jacket in the evening.
- If anyone in your group has mobility needs, the Bowery/Houston intersection is flat and easy to access — tell the guide and they'll position the group accordingly.
Second Sit‑Down Tasting — Classic Italian course (Little Italy / nearby)
Enjoy the tour’s second sit‑down tasting at a well‑loved local Italian spot — your guide coordinates a classic 'second piatto' (a heartier savory course) and conversation about famous diners and mob lore.
Tips from local experts:
- Share plates among your group to try more dishes — perfect for friends who want variety.
- Ask your guide which house specialties are local favorites — they’ll recommend off‑menu tips.
- Spring evenings are popular — arrive promptly to keep group seating together and avoid the busiest service times.
Walk to Little Italy — Mulberry Street stroll
A short walk through the historic streets toward Mulberry Street, with stops to point out former mob hangouts and the changing neighborhood character.
Tips from local experts:
- Mulberry Street is narrow — stick together and use the curbside for group photos.
- If you want souvenirs, keep an eye out for small shops (bottled sauces, shirts) — great split‑cost finds for friend groups.
- Spring evenings mean more foot traffic; follow your guide closely and wear comfortable shoes.
Dessert — Ferrara Bakery & Cafe (Sicilian cannoli)
End the tour with a traditional Sicilian cannoli at Ferrara Bakery & Cafe — the perfect 'dolce' finish and a local favorite for pastry lovers.
Tips from local experts:
- Ferrara's cannoli are best eaten right away — plan to enjoy them on a nearby bench or standing together for a fun group moment.
- If your group likes coffee or espresso with dessert, Ferrara serves classic options you can split; grab cups to go for a stroll.
- Bakery queues can form, but the staff are fast; the guide will help the group coordinate orders to keep things moving.
Final Q&A, Group Photo & Farewell on Mulberry Street
Quick wrap: group photo on Mulberry Street, final questions to your guide, and recommendations for continuing the evening (bars, live music) if your group wants to extend the night.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide for a post‑tour nightlife tip — they know lively spots that welcome groups of friends.
- If you plan to split the bill for food/drinks later, set up a payment app transfer while the group is gathered.
- Mulberry Street at dusk offers great golden‑hour photos in spring — pick the façade with the string lights for the best shot.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Restaurant, Neighborhood, Attraction, Meal, Transfer |
