Updated on September 1, 2024, St. Louis’s "The Hill" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Italian immigration and culinary tradition. More than just a neighborhood, it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of family-owned businesses, aromatic kitchens, and the lively chatter of generations. Its compact, walkable streets are lined with red-brick buildings, each holding a story, a recipe, and a piece of St. Louis’s heart. For those seeking an authentic Italian experience, The Hill is an undisputed mecca, a place where the aroma of garlic and simmering tomato sauce hangs heavy in the air, beckoning visitors to indulge in a taste of Italy.
This article delves into the 11 best restaurants The Hill has to offer, providing a glimpse into the unique character and culinary specialties of each establishment. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand seeking a refined dining experience or a casual diner craving a comforting plate of pasta, The Hill promises a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
1. Amighetti’s: A Legacy of Sandwiches and Sweets
Stepping into Amighetti’s is like stepping back in time. This historic cafe, a cornerstone of The Hill, has been serving its legendary Amighetti’s Special sandwich for decades. Imagine layers of thinly sliced ham, savory beef, and spicy salami, complemented by tangy brick cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, pungent onion, and a signature pepper dressing, all nestled between slices of freshly baked bread. This is the Amighetti Special, a symphony of flavors and textures that has captivated generations of St. Louisans.
Beyond the iconic sandwich, Amighetti’s boasts a diverse menu of other tempting creations, including classic Italian sandwiches, comforting pasta dishes, and refreshing salads. But the experience doesn’t end there. The establishment also houses a charming bakery, brimming with delectable pastries and artisanal breads, a traditional gelateria, offering a refreshing escape with its creamy, authentic Italian ice cream, and a delightful outdoor wine garden, perfect for savoring a glass of vino on a warm afternoon. Amighetti’s is open for lunch and early dinners daily, except on Sundays, making it a beloved destination for a midday repast or an early evening treat.
2. Charlie Gitto’s: Fine Dining with a Touch of Elegance
For a more refined Italian dining experience, Charlie Gitto’s stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence. With over three decades of experience serving fine Italian food on The Hill, this restaurant exudes an upscale ambiance, making it an ideal choice for a romantic date night or a special occasion. The dimly lit dining room, adorned with classic Italian décor, sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Charlie Gitto’s boasts an extensive menu that showcases the breadth and depth of Italian cuisine. From traditional pasta dishes like linguini, lasagna, and ravioli, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail, to succulent beef, chicken, veal, and seafood entrees, the restaurant offers a symphony of flavors to satisfy every palate. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation ensures a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying. Open only for dinner, Charlie Gitto’s is a culinary gem that embodies the essence of fine Italian dining on The Hill.
3. Cunetto House of Pasta: Generous Portions, Affordable Prices
Cunetto House of Pasta is another longtime favorite on The Hill, renowned for its generous portions and affordable prices. As the name suggests, pasta is the star of the show here, with a vast array of options to choose from. Whether you prefer a classic marinara sauce, a creamy Alfredo, or a spicy arrabbiata, Cunetto’s allows you to customize your pasta dish to your exact liking.
Beyond pasta, the menu also features a selection of salads, soups, and non-pasta entrees, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and hearty portions make it a popular choice for families and large groups. If you’re looking for a satisfying and affordable Italian meal on The Hill, Cunetto House of Pasta is an excellent choice.
4. Adriana’s: A Casual Lunchtime Haven
For a quick and delicious lunch, Adriana’s is a must-visit. This small, family-owned cafe serves up some of the best sandwiches in St. Louis. The Italian beef, tender and flavorful, is a local favorite, as is the salsiccia, a spicy Italian sausage that packs a flavorful punch.
Adriana’s also offers a selection of tasty pizzas, refreshing salads, and comforting plates of pasta. The cafe’s cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a welcoming spot for a midday break. However, be sure to plan your visit accordingly, as Adriana’s is only open during lunch hours.
5. Lorenzo’s Trattoria: A Modern Twist on Italian Classics
Lorenzo’s Trattoria is one of the newer additions to The Hill’s culinary scene, offering a more modern take on Italian cuisine. The restaurant specializes in dishes from Northern Italy, featuring a menu that is both innovative and flavorful.
Signature dishes include the braised ossobuco, a tender and succulent veal shank braised in wine and vegetables, and the chicken spiedini, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Lorenzo’s is open daily for dinner, including Sundays, making it a convenient option for a delicious Italian meal any night of the week.
6. Dominic’s: Gourmet Italian Fare for a Special Occasion
When you’re looking to impress, Dominic’s is the place to go. This iconic restaurant has been serving gourmet Italian fare on The Hill since 1971. Voted one of the two best Italian restaurants in the country by Conde Nast Traveler, Dominic’s is renowned for its upscale cuisine and impeccable service.
The menu features exquisite dishes like veal, beef tenderloin, and lobster ravioli, each prepared with the finest ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. Dominic’s is open for dinner only, and the suggested dress code is business casual, reflecting the restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance.
7. Zia’s: A Family-Friendly Italian Experience
Zia’s is a great choice for a nice family meal. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and a large menu filled with pasta, beef, chicken, and seafood dishes. Zia’s salad and toasted ravioli are also popular choices. With something for everyone to enjoy, Zia’s is a perfect spot for a relaxed and enjoyable family dinner. Zia’s is open for lunch and dinner daily except Sunday.
8. Joe Fassi Sausage and Sandwich Factory: A Lunchtime Staple
Joe Fassi Sausage and Sandwich Factory is another top choice for lunch on The Hill. Joe Fassi’s menu features many sandwiches made with homemade sausage and meatballs. You can also buy packages of fresh sausage links and meatballs to take home. Joe Fassi is open for lunch and early dinners.
9. Gian-Tony’s: A Taste of Southern Italy
Gian-Tony’s specializes in the tastes of Southern Italy, served in a comfortable setting. The menu includes many different kinds of pasta – ravioli, tortellini, and fettuccine – along with beef, chicken, and seafood dishes. For dessert, try the cannoli or tiramisu. Gian-Tony’s is open daily for dinner.
10. Favazza’s: Comfort Food and a Welcoming Atmosphere
Favazza’s is a longtime favorite of locals in St. Louis. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere with many repeat customers. For real comfort food, try the baked mostaccioli or homemade lasagna. Favazza’s also has gluten-free and children’s menus. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily except Sunday.
11. Gelato di Riso: A Sweet Ending to Your Culinary Journey
While not a full restaurant, Gelato di Riso is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth after exploring the savory delights of The Hill. This charming cafe offers a wide variety of rich gelato flavors, including classic chocolate, decadent salted caramel, and aromatic amaretto. For those seeking lighter options, there are also refreshing fruit flavors like peach, blackberry, and banana.
In addition to gelato, Gelato di Riso also offers a selection of baked goods, such as scones, cannoli, and pecan bars, as well as gourmet coffee to complete your sweet escape. With its inviting atmosphere and delectable treats, Gelato di Riso is the perfect ending to your culinary journey on The Hill.
