New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour Led by NYPD Guides

Exploring the intersection of New York City’s storied mob history and its renowned culinary scene sounds like a captivating experience. Led by retired NYPD officers, this tour promises an immersive journey through iconic mafia-connected locations while indulging in a delectable Italian meal. From insider crime stories to authentic dining, it’s a unique way to uncover the city’s past. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, this tour may pique your interest.

This experience made our article of The 16 Best City Tours In New York City.

Key Points

• A 5-hour guided tour exploring the history and haunts of the New York City Mafia, led by retired NYPD officers with insider knowledge.
• Visits to mob-connected locations, including the site of a high-profile murder and the former headquarters of a crime family.
• Insider crime stories and a behind-the-scenes look at Mafia history, not found in typical sources.
• Includes a three-course authentic Italian meal, with an opportunity to learn about the cultural significance of the dishes.
• Accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, with a maximum group size of 30 participants.

Tour Overview

The New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour led by experienced NYPD guides promises an immersive half-day adventure through the East Village and Little Italy neighborhoods.

This highly-rated tour includes 690 reviews with 96% recommendation and a Badge of Excellence. Lasting approximately 5 hours, the tour starts at 5:15 PM from Johns of 12th Street.

Guests will visit locations with mob connections, hear true crime stories, and enjoy a full three-course Italian meal.

With a maximum group size of 30, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers.

Guided by Retired NYPD Officers

What makes this tour truly distinctive is that it’s guided by retired NYPD officers with insider knowledge of the New York City mafia.

These seasoned law enforcement professionals leverage their firsthand experiences to provide a captivating and authentic exploration of the local mob’s history and haunts.

As you explore the East Village and Little Italy, you’ll:

1. Visit locations with direct mob connections and hear true crime stories from the guides.
2. Gain a deeper understanding of the city’s organized crime underbelly and its lasting impact.
3. Indulge in a full three-course Italian meal, savoring dishes like spaghetti with meatballs and Sicilian cannoli.

This unique blend of history, crime, and cuisine promises an unparalleled New York City experience.

Mafia-Connected Locations

As we explore the East Village and Little Italy, our retired NYPD officer guides will lead us to locations with direct mob connections, regaling us with captivating true crime stories. We’ll visit infamous sites like:

Location	Mob Connection
Umberto’s Clam House	Murder of Joey Gallo in 1972
Ravenite Social Club	Former headquarters of the Gambino crime family
Mulberry Street	Historic center of the Five Families’ activities

These stops provide a vivid glimpse into the power and influence of the New York Mafia, bringing the city’s underworld history to life through the lens of those who witnessed it firsthand.

Insider Crime Stories

Though the New York City Mafia has been the subject of countless movies and books, our retired NYPD officer guide offers a unique, insider’s perspective on the true crime stories that shaped the city’s underworld.

Throughout the tour, we learn about:

1. The infamous "Mafia Cops" scandal, where two NYPD detectives moonlighted as hitmen for the Lucchese crime family.

2. The unsolved murder of mobster John Gotti’s 12-year-old son, a tragedy that rocked the Gambino family.

3. The dramatic car chase and shootout that led to the downfall of notorious gangster Vincent "The Chin" Gigante.

These captivating tales provide a gritty, behind-the-scenes look at the Mafia’s reign over New York City.

Authentic Italian Dining Experience

While the mob stories captivate our attention, the authentic Italian dining experience is the true highlight of this tour.

We indulge in a three-course feast, savoring classic dishes like spaghetti with meatballs, eggplant rollatini, and decadent Sicilian cannoli. The portions are generous, and vegetarian options are available.

As we dine, our guide provides insight into the cultural significance of these time-honored recipes. The food quality and service at each stop receive mixed reviews, but the overall experience allows us to immerse ourselves in the flavors of Little Italy.

This culinary journey complements the thrilling mafia tales seamlessly.

Accessibility and Group Size

The tour is designed with accessibility in mind, accommodating wheelchair users, stroller-pushing families, and those traveling with service animals.

The tour group size is capped at a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. To participate, a moderate fitness level is recommended, as the tour involves a fair amount of walking, though options may be available for those with leg or mobility issues.

Here are 3 key accessibility features:

1. Wheelchair accessible
2. Stroller accessible
3. Near public transportation

Guest Feedback

Glowing reviews from past participants highlight the tour’s strengths, with many praising their guide Dennis for his exceptional storytelling and deep knowledge of the local mafia’s history.

Travelers enjoyed the engaging blend of history, crime, and cuisine, noting the unique experience the tour provided.

However, some found the group size to be too large, impacting their ability to fully immerse themselves. A few requested more structured historical context to better understand the significance of the locations visited.

Recommendations for Ideal Travelers

Given the tour’s unique blend of mafia history, local cuisine, and insider expertise, it’s ideal for fans of true crime stories, culinary enthusiasts, and those seeking a one-of-a-kind New York City experience.

To get the most out of this captivating tour, keep these tips in mind:

1. Arrive hungry, as the tour includes generous portions of Italian staples like spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant rollatini, and Sicilian cannoli.

2. Engage actively with the retired NYPD officer guide to unlock a deeper understanding of the mob’s influence on the city.

3. Expect a mix of walking and dining, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to explore the East Village and Little Italy neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Any Mob Members Still Involved in the Tour?

We cannot confirm if any current mob members are involved in the tour. The tour is led by retired NYPD officers who provide insider knowledge about the mafia’s history in New York City. However, we do not have information about any ongoing mob involvement.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

We encourage photos during the tour, as long as they don’t disrupt the experience or intrude on others. Just be mindful of our stops and follow any guidelines provided by the guide.

Is There a Dress Code for the Food Stops?

There’s no formal dress code for the food stops on this tour. We recommend dressing comfortably and wearing casual, weather-appropriate attire. The focus is on enjoying the delicious Italian cuisine, not fashion. Just come ready to eat and explore!

Do the Guides Discuss Ongoing Organized Crime?

We don’t believe the guides discuss ongoing organized crime on this tour. The focus seems to be on historical mob connections and stories, rather than current criminal activities.

Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include gratuity for the guide. We recommend budgeting an additional 15-20% tip to show your appreciation for their expertise and service during the experience.

The Sum Up

The New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour offers a unique and immersive experience that combines the city’s rich mob history with an authentic Italian dining experience. Led by retired NYPD officers, the tour provides insider crime stories and insights as participants explore iconic mafia-connected locations. Whether you’re a fan of mob tales or simply seeking a memorable culinary journey, this tour is a must-try for those looking to explore New York’s storied past.