Italy comes to the heart of Manhattan…no not Little Italy… its Eataly! A new mega complex of Italy food comprised of shopping, eating and learning. The original in Turin, Italy has a few other locations in Italy and Japan but this the first U.S. spot. Brought to you by Eataly founder Oscar Farinetti and famous chefs/restauranteurs including Mario Batali, Joe Bastianich (NY restaurants Babbo, Del Posto) and Lidia Bastianich (star of Lidia’s Italy on PBS).

At 50,000 square feet, Eataly boasts everything Italian…restaurants (formal, casual and to go), groceries, beer, wine, a school and even a travel agency! Their mission is to celebrate and foster understanding of the Italian table. And they’ve assembled the best Italian producers under one roof to do so.

Check out this map from the New York Post to see all Eataly has to offer. I can’t wait to hit the Pasticceria and Gelateria for some of Luca Montersino’s creations and the Rooftop Beer Garden opening in November. Located in the Toy Building, 200 Fifth Avenue between 23rd and 24th Streets, Eataly is open every day from 10am-11pm. Their website has more details and I’ll report back after my December visit.

Have you been to Eataly in Manhattan, Italy or Japan? If so tell us what you think!