On Saturday, April 22nd, the members of Kennedy Catholic’s Italian Club – and some additional friends – loaded onto a bus, and headed down to the iconic Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. This excursion marks the second annual trip down to the famous “slice of Italy” for the Italian Club, and was again spearheaded by its two co-presidents, seniors Robert Grande and Nicolas Savino.

Along with Kennedy’s own Italy native Italian teacher, Dr. Illaria Tedesco, and the wonderful Mrs. Moira Normile, a Bronx native, the students who attended the trip spent the afternoon walking around and exploring “Little Italy.” Students visited generations-old cafes, authentic pizza places, family-owned stores, and the world famous Arthur Avenue Market, which mimics a scene right out of the Godfather. The traditional market houses fresh meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, and cigars.

Tucked in the back corner of the market is the praised Mike’s Deli, beloved by Italian-American icons such as Bobby Flay, Robert DeNiro, Giada De Laurentiis, and Rudy Giuliani. Here, Kennedy students enjoyed mouth-watering paninis, sandwiches, and cold-cut samplers – courtesy of the Deli’s benevolent owner and quintessential Italian, Mr. Greco – before indulging in some gelato and coffee down the street at Delillo’s.

Before heading home, students picked up some delicious Italian pastries and espresso at Egidio Pastry Shop. As students boarded the bus home at the famed Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, it was unanimously agreed that the second annual celebration of this new tradition was a resounding success, and a day to remember.