Where to Find Authentic Italian Food in St. Louis: A Guide to The Hill Neighborhood
The heart of St. Louis's Italian community is The Hill, a place where centuries-old traditions meet modern tastes, giving diners a wide array of authentic Italian cuisine options. From family-run trattorias to upscale restaurants, The Hill is a culinary paradise for Italian food enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the best spots for delicious and authentic Italian meals.
Exploring The Hill: The Traditional Italian Neighborhood
The Hill is bounded by Southwest Boulevard to the south, Kingshighway to the east, I-44 to the north, and Hampton Avenue to the west. It is the traditional Italian neighborhood in St. Louis and is famous for its numerous Italian restaurants. Among these, Cunetto’s House of Pasta and Zia’s are highly recommended for their customizable and delicious pasta dishes.
Hill Neighborhood Restaurants
Several restaurants in The Hill offer an array of Italian dishes, catering to different preferences and budgets. Some notable places include:
Cunetto’s House of Pasta
With a vast menu of 75 pasta items, Cunetto’s House of Pasta is a must-visit for its high-end dining experience. Customers can enjoy the vast variety of their pasta dishes, ranging from classic spaghetti carbonara to unique specials. The atmosphere is cozy, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions.
Zia’s
Zia’s is the place to go for homemade salads, particularly their sweet Italian dressing. Their pasta dishes are equally impressive, especially the carbonara and lasagna. The large outdoor seating area with a fireplace and a covered area make it a great spot for enjoying a meal during all seasons.
Favazza’s
Favazza’s offers a unique experience with its largest covered outdoor seating area, complete with a fireplace during colder months. The wet salad with bacon bits and their sweet Italian dressing are standout items, both available in bottles at grocery stores. The restaurant is particularly famous for its excellent tortellini.
Lorenzo’s Trattoria
With the latest decor and a more upscale menu, Lorenzo’s Trattoria is a newer addition to The Hill. Known for their incredible white sauces, this restaurant caters to those who prefer a more refined dining experience.
Dominics
Considered Fine Dining, Dominics offers a more upscale and quiet atmosphere, making it a great choice for special occasions or formal dinners. The recipes here are carefully crafted and are passed down through generations, making each dish authentic and delicious.
Russian Hill Dining Scene
Other notable spots in The Hill include:
Gian-Tonys on the Hill: Great traditional Italian sauces, even more impressive in its relative quietness. A great spot to enjoy classic Italian dishes. Giovanni’s on the Hill: Old school Italian ambience with an upscale menu. Good for serving fish, especially the scallops. Mama Tosconis: Excellent for its handcrafted ravioli made from scratch, especially for takeaway. Gioias Deli: A cafeteria offering good Lasagna and sandwiches. Adrianas: Great for casual sandwiches and light eats. Gigli’s Pizzeria and Tapas: Unique with a fusion of Italian and Spanish cuisines. Anthoninos: Another mixed cuisine spot that includes Greek dishes alongside traditional Italian. Charlie Gittos: Known for classic red sauces and a Hill atmosphere. Rigazzis: A workingman's pub with great options like Canneloni, Pizza, and sandwiches.Other Notable Accents
The Hill has a mix of traditional and newer Italian restaurants, offering a diverse range of experiences. Some places to check out include:
Mamas on the Hill: Classic red sauce dishes and seafood linguini, simple yet authentic. Magianos Little Italy: Known as the best Italian chain in the US, serving delicious Alfredo, Lasagna, and Salsiccia. Bartolinos Osteria: A modern version of a workingman's pub, relocated from Hampton to Union Station. Brazies: Sadly closed after 30 years but known for their excellent cuisine.Conclusion
In conclusion, The Hill in St. Louis is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine. Whether you're looking for a traditional experience or a more upscale dining adventure, there's a place in the area to satisfy your cravings. Make sure to explore these places and enjoy a taste of Italy in the heart of St. Louis.