If someone were to ask me to describe Eataly to them in just a few words, I would tell them that the 50,000 square foot marketplace is the Disneyland of all things Italian. Opened on August 31st, 2010, Eataly is owned by Italian powerhouses and culinary household names, Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali. The two, with other various partners, have successfully created the largest Italian marketplace in the world, drawing crowds of thousands through their doors daily.

While there are countless Italian joints in Manhattan, dining and shopping at Eataly is a unique experience that cannot be duplicated anywhere else. As a foodie, you will find delectable and Instagram-worthy dishes to feast your eyes on. And as an Italian, you will appreciate the authenticity of every inch and detail of the venue. So, without further ado, here are my 5 reasons to stop everything and go to Eataly right now!