Parkchester

Since a sizable housing development opened in the early 1940s, Parkchester has drawn families and individuals seeking a quiet community with affordable rents and reasonable proximity to Manhattan. Over time, the South Bronx enclave has developed into a diverse, tightly knit urban village spread across approximately 100 13-story residences. Chirping birds and neighbors calling out friendly hellos as kids zip by on their bikes project an idyllic, suburban aura—interrupted by the occasional salsa song drifting from the windows of ground-level apartments.

Since a sizable housing development opened in the early 1940s, Parkchester has drawn families and individuals seeking a quiet community with affordable rents and reasonable proximity to Manhattan. Over time, the South Bronx enclave has developed into a diverse, tightly knit urban village spread across approximately 100 13-story residences. Chirping birds and neighbors calling out friendly hellos as kids zip by on their bikes project an idyllic, suburban aura—interrupted by the occasional salsa song drifting from the windows of ground-level apartments.

Oscar Alvarez, resident, NYU drama student and after-school drama program teacher

"South of France Bar has a happy hour open buffet once a week, where you go in, buy a drink, and have access to a whole [spread] of Latin food like rice, beans and roasted pork."
South of France Bar, 1800 Westchester Ave between Beach and Taylor Aves (718-823-1133)

Brenda Williams, general manager, Bow Tie Cinemas American Theater

"In April 2008, Bow Tie purchased the theater and restored about 90 percent of it to its original look. We replaced the seats, carpets and all 600 lightbulbs; upgraded the projectors; fixed the marquee; repainted the building and auditorium ceilings [and more]. We get thanks from theatergoers everyday for keeping the theater clean and in the neighborhood."
Bow Tie Cinemas American Theater, 1450 East Ave at Parkchester Rd (718-863-4900, bowtiecinemas.com)

"The neighborhood celebrated its 70th anniversary. We screened a video filmed [when the Parkchester development] first opened [for residents to move in]. We had people attend who have lived here 60 years, and others who grew up here and returned to reminisce."

"Mr. Pizza (next door) has got to be the best pizza in New York City, hands down. [It's] been in business for over 30 years."
Mr. Pizza, 1448 East Ave at Parkchester Rd (718-931-3822)

Vinnette Walker, employee, City of New York

"To me, Parkchester is a community where neighbors greet each other. It's a good area for singles and families. It's also a safe place. I've read about things happening outside of Parkchester, but never in the vicinity."

"In the summertime, they have music and shows in The [Metropolitan] Oval and events, like exercise classes, which they post in the buildings too. In the winter, they drain the fountain and decorate it for the holiday season."
Metropolitan Oval, Metropolitan Ave at Unionport Rd (parkchester.org)

Phil G., electronic maintainter, MTA

"I give Step In restaurant five stars; it's delicious diner food [for the price]."
Step In, 1309 Metropolitan Ave at Hugh Grant Circle (718-822-0562, stepinrestaurant.com)