In 1970, 35-year-old Umberto (Robert) Ianniello strolled around Little Italy and realized there were only a couple of seafood restaurants in the entire neighborhood. Named after the last Prince of Italy, Umberto kept the idea to himself for a little while, until one day when he was speaking with his parents he mentioned it. His parents encouraged Umberto to realize his dream, and in 1972, Umberto Ianniello opened his restaurant, Umberto’s Clam House on Mulberry Street.

With an unpretentious atmosphere, and an overriding concern by Ianniello that all the seafood served at the restaurant be as fresh as possible and prepared in their soon-to-be-renowned open kitchen, the restaurant became an overnight success.

Approximately two years ago, Umberto’s moved two blocks north, to its current address at 386 Broome Street (between Mott and Mulberry Streets).

“To this day, Robert DeNiro, Martin Scorcese, Michael Douglass and Bette Midler continue to come back because of the food and the fact that Umberto’s captures the true flavor of Little Italy in every way,” mentioned Ianniello.

Umberto’s is located at 386 Broome Street, between Mott and Mulberry Streets, in Little Italy. Their phone number is 212-431-7545. They’re open from 11AM to 4AM, seven days a week. Seasonal, outdoor dining is available. They only accept the American Express card. Reservations are not necessary, but they’re encouraged on Friday and Saturday evenings. A function room for parties up to 50 people is also available.