For the most part, Pelham’s reputation hinges on its short commute to Grand Central, its move-here-worthy public schools, and a fine-arts movie theater with a tradition of drawing big-name stars. But this town has more going on, from public art and cool coffee shops to classic slice joints and antiquing for a good cause.
By Samantha Garbarini & Anthony Tornatore
Start in Pelham’s somewhat industrialized corner with a caffeine jolt at Caffé Ammi (109 Sixth St.; 914.738.2511). Owned by espresso-machine and coffee importer Ammirati, Inc. next door, the Brooklyn-vibe coffee shop roasts single-origin and micro-batch coffees on site. Pair a perfectly pulled shot, cold brew, or seasonal lavender-honey latte with a pastry from NYC’s Balthazar Bakery.
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It’s a short walk to the Pelham Art Center (155 Fifth Ave.; 914.738.2525). Inside, the gallery space showcases free exhibits from local and international artists across a multitude of disciplines. Don’t skip the small courtyard, where there’s typically something on display.
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At only 2.5 square miles, Pelham boasts five corner-slice joints. While residents have strong opinions about which is best, there’s no question that cash-only Pelham Pizza (113 Fifth Ave.; 914.738.3554) is a favorite. The sausage slice was named among the nation’s 100 best slices by The Daily Meal in 2014, but we’re partial to the eggplant slice and chicken roll.
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Stop by the bakery counter at DeCicco & Sons’ (43 Fifth Ave.; 914.738.1377) flagship location, to customize a filled-to-order cannoli. If that isn’t enough for you, they also make homemade cakes, Italian cookies, and breads all throughout the day using only the freshest ingredients.
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Grab a ticket for whatever’s playing — and a bag of the county’s best movie-theater popcorn — at The Picture House (175 Wolfs Ln.; 914.738.3161). Established in 1921, the theater was saved from demolition and transformed into a fine-arts theater in 2002, screening box-office hits, indie films, and documentaries in its two theaters.
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Just down the block, Cantina Lobos (217 Wolfs Ln.; 914.380.8644) brings a much-needed infusion of Mexican flavors — tequila cocktails, tacos, and chicken in 12-hour mole — and quirky-cool décor to Pelham’s dining scene. For a more formal, white-tablecloth-style dinner, head to La Fontanella (115 Wolfs Ln.; 914.738.3008), where tuxedo-clad waiters serve generous plates of fresh pasta.
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This quaint and peaceful park is the perfect place to finish off your night before you head to your hotel. Located in the heart of Pelham, the Wolfs Lane Park is the perfect place to take a stroll or to sit down and enjoy the sights and sounds of Pelham.
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Although there are no hotels in the direct vicinity of Pelham, a few miles up the road lies the Ramada Hotel (125 Tuckahoe Rd.; 914.821.6625). Located in Yonkers off the NY Thruway, the Ramada is the perfect place to stay to have a relaxing night. To make things better, they have a free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center for all guests.
Related: Pelham House & History Tour