The Hill, a charming neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri, is renowned for its rich Italian-American culture, vibrant atmosphere, and mouth-watering cuisine. As a foodie, you’re probably eager to explore the best places to eat on the Hill, and this comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate the culinary scene. From classic Italian eateries to modern fusion restaurants, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the Hill’s most popular and hidden gems.
A Taste of Italy on the Hill
The Hill’s Italian heritage is palpable in every corner, and its restaurants are a testament to the community’s love for traditional Italian cuisine. Here are some must-visit spots for a taste of Italy:
Classic Italian Eateries
- Adriana’s Restaurant: A Hill institution since 1972, Adriana’s serves up authentic Italian dishes like veal parmesan, chicken cacciatore, and homemade pasta.
- Charlie Gitto’s: This family-owned restaurant has been a Hill staple since 1974, offering a wide range of Italian favorites, including pizza, pasta, and seafood.
- Guido’s Pizzeria: For a taste of Italy’s famous pizza, head to Guido’s, which has been serving up wood-fired pies since 1976.
Modern Italian Fusion
- North Italia: This modern Italian restaurant offers a twist on traditional dishes, with options like truffle mac and cheese and burrata appetizers.
- Il Palio: This upscale eatery serves creative Italian-American cuisine, including dishes like roasted beet salad and pan-seared scallops.
- Café Adriana: This cozy café offers a mix of Italian and American flavors, with options like breakfast sandwiches and coffee.
More Than Just Italian
While Italian cuisine is the Hill’s claim to fame, you’ll find a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and craving. Here are some notable mentions:
Steakhouses and Seafood
- The Hill’s own Salt + Smoke: This modern American bistro serves up creative dishes like smoked pork belly and roasted bone marrow.
- The Boathouse: Located on the Hill’s waterfront, this seafood restaurant offers fresh catches and waterfront views.
- Bluemercury: This upscale steakhouse serves premium cuts of meat, including filet mignon and ribeye.
Casual Eats and Snacks
- Imo’s Pizza: This St. Louis institution has been serving up thin-crust pizza since 1964. Try the classic “Provel” pizza for a taste of the Hill.
- Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: This beloved frozen treat has been a Hill staple since 1929. Try the famous “Concrete” – a thick, creamy treat topped with your choice of mix-ins.
- La Piazza: This casual eatery offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, including their famous Italian-style subs.
Drinks and Desserts
No meal is complete without a sweet treat or a refreshing drink. The Hill has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings:
Coffee and Treats
- La Dolce Vita: This charming coffee shop serves up espresso, cappuccino, and other coffee drinks, as well as delicious pastries and sandwiches.
- The Cup: This popular coffee shop offers a wide range of coffee drinks, as well as smoothies and baked goods.
- Po Boy’s Coffee: This family-owned coffee shop serves up specialty coffee drinks and homemade pastries.
Breweries and Bars
- Perennial Artisan Ales: This award-winning brewery offers a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours.
- Heavy Riff Brewing: This Hill-based brewery serves up a range of beer styles, from pale ales to porters.
- The Hill’s own bar, The Hilltop: This cozy spot offers a variety of drinks, including craft beer and cocktails, as well as live music and trivia nights.
Recap and Recommendations
With so many delicious options to choose from, it’s hard to go wrong on the Hill. Here are some final recommendations:
- For a classic Italian experience, head to Adriana’s Restaurant or Charlie Gitto’s.
- For a modern twist on Italian cuisine, try North Italia or Il Palio.
- For a taste of something new, check out Salt + Smoke or The Boathouse.
- For a sweet treat, visit Ted Drewes Frozen Custard or La Dolce Vita.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best place to eat on the Hill?
A: It really depends on your taste preferences! If you’re looking for classic Italian cuisine, try Adriana’s Restaurant or Charlie Gitto’s. For a modern twist, head to North Italia or Il Palio. And for something new, check out Salt + Smoke or The Boathouse.
Q: Is the Hill only about Italian food?
A: While Italian cuisine is a big part of the Hill’s identity, you’ll find a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and craving. From steakhouses to seafood restaurants, casual eats to fine dining, the Hill has something for everyone.
Q: What are some must-try desserts on the Hill?
A: You can’t go wrong with Ted Drewes Frozen Custard’s famous “Concrete” or La Dolce Vita’s delicious pastries. And for a sweet treat, visit The Cup or Po Boy’s Coffee for some homemade goodies.
Q: Are there any breweries or bars on the Hill?
A: Yes! The Hill is home to several breweries, including Perennial Artisan Ales and Heavy Riff Brewing. And for a drink, head to The Hilltop, a cozy bar with live music and trivia nights.
Q: Is the Hill wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, many of the Hill’s restaurants and businesses are wheelchair accessible. However, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm accessibility features before visiting.