St. Louis Italian - THE HILL
Next on our tour of St. Louis neighborhoods is none other than The Hill. Famous for its spaghetti and bocce, this area is chock full of places to eat, drink and speak Italian (maybe not really, but they do have their own newspaper all in Italian). The area was historically an Italian-American settlement because of nearby jobs at plants, and today still boasts 75% Italian-American residents. If you're in the mood for pasta or pizza, this place is a slam dunk for variety and locations. And, if you are in need of some hard-to-find cooking ingredients, you'll be sure to find them at one of the local markets. Here are my suggestions on where to grab a bite, have a drink, and pick up some goodies to save for later.
for lunch:
-Amighetti's: "Often Imitated, Never Duplicated" is their tagline, and it's the truth. The Amighetti Special--ham, Genoa salami, brick cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, pepperoncini and special sauce--is amazing. All sandwiches are on the classic Amighetti bread, which has been made fresh daily since 1921. Also on the menu is cheese garlic bread, after you try this, you'll never be satisfied by any other CGB again.
for dinner:
-Zia's: As you walk in to Zia's, it feels like a classic Italian restaurant...not too upscale and very homey...complete with photos of Italian families from the early 1900's. You won't be impressed by the tables, chairs or dining accessories (you'll actually feel like you're in a cafeteria) but once they bring out your food, you'll forget all about the room. Choose from traditionals like Pasta Con Broccoli or their famous original Chicken Spiedini, you'll be happy with anything you choose. While you're here, try Toasted Ravioli, St. Louis' claim to fame, for an appetizer.
for goods:
-J. Viviano & Sons: John Viviano, Sr. arrived in St. Louis in 1926 and began work at the macaroni factory downtown. As the depression worsened, his factory work couldn't support his family, and he began to make bleach in his bathtub to sell to friends. His business grew to include cheese and other food products, and he eventually opened his store (the current location has been open since 1950). Here you'll find fresh meats, cheeses of all kinds, a variety of pastas, sauces, olive oils and much more. Be sure to take home a brick of Provel cheese, another St. Louis favorite.
for treats:
-Missouri Baking Company: Who doesn't love a bakery? Better yet, who doesn't love a superb bakery? This locally owned and operated shop is the mecca for sweets. Naturally, their specialty is Italian favorites - tiramisu, cannoli, pizza shells, biscotti - but their cookies, cheesecake, and freshly baked bread will not dissappoint. My personal favorites? Chocolate Top Cookies and an 8" Round Cheesecake.
for drinks:
-Rigazzi's: Home of the Fishbowl Beer, stop in Rigazzi's and you'll feel like you're at the corner bar in the neighborhood. It's a little tricky to find if you're not from the area, so make sure you googlemap it. Seat yourself and order up a locally brewed Bud Light - heck, have a couple and close down the house.
Buon Appetito!
Place: The Hill
Location: 10 minutes southwest of downtown
Contact: 314-647-2042 (for tours) or stlouis.missouri.org/thehill
