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Things to Do

What to do and eat in Mott Haven, Bronx

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  • Get your morning grub at Nick's Blue Diner, 217 E. 138th St. Granted, it's not too fancy, but the big crowds are there for a reason -- plus, there aren't many classic diners like this left in the South Bronx.
    Photo Credit: Christa Lopez
  • Shoe Repair and Botanica, 523 E. 138th St., features the much-overlooked combination of Afro-Cuban religious advice and shoe service. The shop, open for more than 20 years, sells candles that are said to provide healing energies. If it's up your alley, it could be good for your soul and sole.
    Photo Credit: Christa Lopez
  • St. Jerome’s Church, at 230 Alexander Ave., is not the oldest nor the biggest, but the beautiful Italian Renaissance and Spanish Baroque details within the church may bring reminders of the Mediterranean. And if there is a smell of incense, so much the better. ” data-id=”112857038″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/20205_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.12857038″/>
    Photo Credit: Christa Lopez
  • The oldest church in the area (and second-oldest in the borough) is the burial place of several of the Morris scions, including Lewis, signer of the Declaration of Independence. A secret passageway at St. Ann's, 295 St. Ann's Ave., leads to the family crypt. To find it, follow the blue
    Photo Credit: Christa Lopez
  • La Morada, 308 Willis Ave., and the Michelin-rated Mexicocina, 503 Jackson Ave. The latter is revered by foodies, but La Morada is more artsy and its menu begrudges nothing from its elder brother. Chef Natalia Mendez serves up a few must-try dishes including ribs in mole negro sauce, pictured. The dish is served with sides of rice, black beans and chapulines (fried grasshoppers).” data-id=”112857028″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/20209_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.12857028″/>
    Photo Credit: Christa Lopez
  • Graffiti 2 Community Ministries have a great churchgoing. The nonprofit, located at 335 Beekman Ave., organizes group activities, sports teams and community events. If you ask politely, they can show you the upstairs, a rebuilt (well, almost) synagogue that used to house the Shomrei Shabbos B’nai Israel congregation. ” data-id=”112857014″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/20211_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.12857014″/>
    Photo Credit: Christa Lopez
  • Get a folding chair and watch the neighborhood dance or just hang out. Whether you want to join a rapper, dance to some Tito Puente music or a baleful ranchera, the best action is usually on the sidewalks of 138th Street. Don't be bashful and join the fun.
    Photo Credit: Linda Rosier

We know what you’re thinking: Is Mott Haven really worth the trek out to the Bronx? The answer is a simple, and colorful, yes.

The neighborhood, located in the South Bronx, is home to numerous historical churches, authentic eats and vibrant street art.

If you’re coming from midtown, you’ll want to hop on the 6 train to get to Mott Haven in just under one hour.

Here’s how to spend the day in the area.

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