Hunts Point - Bronx, NY

A socioeconomic shift began in the mid 20th century with lower income residents replacing wealthy residents that opted to leave in favor of new suburbs. By the late 1960's many of the buildings in the South Bronx were destroyed by arson, leaving behind abandoned buildings and vacant lots. Revitalization of the neighborhood has brought throngs of city dwellers to the area, which has redefined itself as an up-and-coming spot, replete with eateries, shops and new business boosting the economy and attracting new residents.

The Bronx Academy of Art and Dance keeps in step with the area's commitment to culture by hosting monthly festivals focusing on race, gender and sexual orientation. Workshops, concerts and performing arts venues are hosted by the academy, satiating local residents' appetite for the fine arts.

The market on Southern Boulevard serves as home to a booming shopping district with chain restaurants and shops, with ethnic counter service spots and restaurants dotted around the neighborhood to feed hungry shoppers.

Fratelli's Pizza Cafe in Hunts Point serves up classic New York style pizza in its standard cafe. Try a slice of the Grandma pizza or the garlic knots for a good taste of New York.

The Point Cafe and Bascom Catering in Longwood hides itself behind iron gates and through the doors of an office building, but don't let that stop you from sampling the food at this diamond in the rough. The Cuban sandwich remains a favorite among patrons as does the assortment of wraps and salads.

Break Time sports bar houses a spot to grab a drink in after a long day at the office, with generous happy hour specials served by friendly faces and a steady stream of locals to keep you company. El Porton Bar and its low-key ambiance make it a perfect place for a date or night out. Massive mango martinis, mojitos or the classic cosmopolitan complement dishes of chorizo nachos or Mexican burgers.

With midtown Manhattan a short 25 minute train ride away, area residents can get in and out of the neighborhood with ease. The number 2, 5 and 6 trains stop throughout the area and MTA has several bus stops in the neighborhood.

Interstates 295 and 895 intersect through the borough, with the Bronx River Parkway and the Cross Bronx expressway meandering through the northern section of the area. It's easy to hail a cab or use your smartphone to book a ride with Uber. Parking can be congested, with many areas having metered parking. Parking garages are available, but be aware that they can demand hefty fees.

Bicycle and pedestrian paths throughout the borough make foot traffic and cycling through the area a viable option. An initiative for shorter crosswalks, additional bike lanes and diverted traffic has also improved safety for those traveling the neighborhood's streets.

Riverside parks and small playgrounds make up the green areas found in the community. Barretto Point Park, a small but energetic park located on the East River waterfront, features a basketball court, volleyball net and playground. Boat launches into the river and lush fields of grass make this a popular spot to relax or walk beside the water. The Bronx River Greenway provides 23 miles of multi-use paths in the Bronx and Westchester, giving cyclists, runners and walkers lots of natural scenery to enjoy while working out.

Fox Playground houses a beautiful park featuring a arboretum, sprawling playground and basketball courts. A spray shower, drinking fountains and walking paths make it a peaceful reprieve from the noisy city. A dog-friendly area provides a fenced in enclosure where dogs can run unleashed.

The Annual Hunts Point Fish Parade and Summer Festival at Barretto Point Park bring the community out to enjoy a day full of fun. Food vendors offer affordable fare like tasty barbecue, delicious tacos and ice cream while live music plays and kids enjoy an activity tent.

The price tag in Hunts Point and Longwood runs much lower than nearby Manhattan's cost of living. A one bedroom rental costs around $1,125 a month and a pint of beer at the local pub costs $7. A one-way ticket into midtown Manhattan costs $4 although gas prices hover 20 percent above national averages.

The shopping corridor on Southern Boulevard hosts some of the best shopping in the borough. Regines, a department store containing everything you need from shower curtains to baby cribs, has a staunch local following. A discount store carrying name brands, they hold a presence in the neighborhood with several popular locations.

Grocery options include C-Town Market, Fine Fare Supermarket, and Hunts Point Produce Market. Hunts Point Produce Market houses the largest wholesale produce market in the world. With produce delivered daily via boat, plane, and tractor trailer from 49 states and 55 countries, the selection remains the best in the nation. The Fulton Fish Market houses an impressive selection of fish from around the globe but get there early, the selection sells out fast to local eateries, restaurants and stores.