Both historically and presently, New York City has been known as the Melting Pot of America because of the diverse and concentrated ethnic groups and immigrants who have made New York City their home. Living in New York City as a foreigner presents many opportunities to encounter ethnic groups you may not have exposure to in your home country. Visiting these densely populated ethnic neighborhoods makes it possible to immerse yourself in an entirely different language and culture, and try authentically delicious cuisines from all over the world.
Here are some ethnic neighborhoods that are worth exploring on your own, or through a guided tour. Be sure to taste the local delicacies!
Nationality: Greek Neighborhood: Astoria, Queens
Nationality: Hassidic Jews Neighborhoods: Borough Park, Crown Heights, and Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Nationality: Irish Neighborhood: Breezy Point, Queens ; Rockaway Park, Queens
Nationality: Brazilian and Portuguese Neighborhood: Newark, New Jersey
Nationality: Italian Neighborhood: Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn
Nationality: Indian and Bengali Neighborhood: Jackson Heights, Queens
Nationality: West Indian Neighborhood: Jamaica, Queens ; Flatlands, Brooklyn
Nationality: Russian Neighborhood: Brighton Beach, Brooklyn
Nationality: Polish Neighborhood: Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Nationality: Chinese Neighborhoods: Flushing, Queens ; Chinatown, Manhattan
Nationality: Colombian Neighborhood: Elmhurst, Queens
Nationality: Jamaican/Caribbean Neighborhood: Wakefield, Bronx
Nationality: Puerto Rican Neighborhoods: Spanish Harlem, Manhattan ; East Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Nationality: Dominican Neighborhood: Washington Heights, Manhattan
How many have you been to? Which did you find the most interesting? When you check out these neighborhoods, be sure to take a picture and share it with EC New York’s Facebook page!