If it’s a good day to explore St. Louis, cruise south on
Kingshighway Boulevard and take a right immediately after
Interstate 44.

After driving in a maze of left turns and driving down one-way
streets with Italian names, you may stumble upon St. Louis’ Italian
enclave, called “The Hill” by St. Louisans.

Examine the side of the road–if there are fire hydrants painted
in red, white and green, you’ve arrived. The flags that say The
Hill that adorn the streetlights are also a sure sign.

Located roughly west of Kingshighway, east of Hampton, south of
I-44 and north of Arsenal, the Hill is one of the most unified,
ethnically rich and traditional heritage sections in St. Louis.

Most of the businesses and occupants of the Hill are families
dating back several generations in the neighborhood.

With every plate of pasta and chicken parmesan comes a gigantic
side of delectable history. Dating back to the late 19th century
and continuing through today, the Hill has been home to a community
of Italian immigrants in the St. Louis metro area.

On the corner of Marconi and Wilson is St. Ambrose Catholic
Church (5130 Wilson, 771-1228), the heart of The Hill. In the 1920s
hundreds of Italian-Americans from St. Louis teamed together to
assist in building this magnificent house of worship.

The easiest way for Saint Louis University students to get to
The Hill is to take I-40 west to the Kingshighway exit and go south
until reaching Shaw. As you travel west down Shaw from
Kingshighway, a building on the right with the scent of garlic,
basil and Italian spices will prove to be your much awaited
distraction.

Upon entering the market the senses are overwhelmed by a
symphony of smells and sights of freshly made sausages, breads,
pastas and sauces, which you will soon notice is the delicious
aroma of J. Viviano and Sons grocery store (5139 Shaw,
771-5476).

It’s probably not a good idea to take a trip to Viviano’s while
hungry; the imported meats and home-made breads are an
insurmountable temptation. The selection of wine is not bad
either.

From there, take a left down Marconi to find a restaurant for a
great lunch. When approaching the statue of the Italian immigrants,
look around to try to find a parking spot as quickly as possible.
Spaces are scarce, so be prepared to spend some time searching for
a spot during busy hours.

Always popular with the lunchtime crowd is Amighetti’s
Bakery (5141 Wilson, 773-4820). Amighetti’s has been a staple
on the Hill for years, featuring fresh baked breads and sandwiches.
After lunch, you might want to stop at the Gelatoria next
door to indulge in some home-made ice cream.

If not in the mood for ice cream, head to the Missouri
Bakery (2027 Edwards, 773-6566) and grab some napoleons or
canollis.

Cunetto’s House of Pasta (5430 Magnolia, 781-1135) is
another outstanding eatery, and one that’s very popular and highly
regarded among native St. Louisans.

Prepare to wait in line, easily an hour or more, especially on
weekends. If you don’t mind the wait, you can pass the time in the
upstairs lounge, where cocktails are served and baseball is on
TV.

If looking for an affordable meal, a good time and a little more
down-home feel, try Rigazzi’s (4945 Daggett, 772-4900).
Order some gnocchi and a fishbowl full of beer and stay for awhile.
Rigazzi’s is great for a date or great for the whole family. This
is one of the best places for college students who want to eat
nice, but must watch their budget.

Of course, if you don’t feel like going home yet, there is
always something to do at Milo’s Tavern (5201 Wilson,
776-0468). The bocce ball court is always hopping and the wall is
ready and waiting for new challengers. If you aren’t familiar with
the wall, here’s a clue: come thirsty, bring 25 bucks and accompany
a designated driver.

So for a day of interesting culture and good food, the Hill is
the perfect place–and close to our backyard.