Credit Rochelle Berry
The Hill: Little Italy
One of the most colorful neighborhoods in all of St. Louis, The Hill, otherwise known as Little Italy, brilliantly blends Italian heritage with 21st-century additions. On every corner, you can find historic buildings, lovely boutiques, authentic Italian food, and more.
Not only is The Hill a delicious destination, but it is also a historic one, producing two of St. Louis’ most beloved treasures: baseball and Italian food. Baseball’s Yogi Berra and Joe Garagiola grew up on The Hill before going on to the major leagues. The cultural imprint on The Hill is obvious to anyone who visits and sees historic homes, flags on every porch, painted fire hydrants, and the smell of fresh bread and meat wafting on the air.
The Hill’s second treasure, food, is found around every turn. Taste authentic Italian food, quintessential St. Louis cuisine, and the freshest ingredients on one plate. Try Zia’s restaurant, Rigazzi’s, Eovaldi’s Deli, or Adriana’s. Head to Mama Toscano’s for the famous toasted ravioli, a St. Louis original classic, or Missouri Baking Company for the cannoli and fresh baked cookies and Gelato di Riso for other Italian desserts.
While you’re making your cone of gelato last, walk around the area and look into the many retail shops and boutiques for handmade crafts, furnishings, beautiful apparel, and more. SKIF International sells one-of-a-kind knitwear while Paperkeet is a quaint stationery and printing store and Herbaria sells organic, handmade soaps. You don’t want to miss out on the Italian Market or Volpi Foods where they hand-craft authentic Italian meats like salami.
