Charlie Gittos On The Hill Restaurant Reviews

Dining at Charlie Gittos On The Hill is an experience that will leave you feeling like a king, or in this case, a mob boss. This historic restaurant, located in the heart of St. Louis's Italian-American neighborhood, has been serving up classic Italian cuisine since 1946. With its rich history, elegant atmosphere, and mouth-watering dishes, it's no wonder Charlie Gittos On The Hill has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The restaurant's history is deeply rooted in the city's Italian-American culture. Charlie Gitto, the founder, was a Sicilian immigrant who brought his love of cooking to America. He opened the restaurant on June 3, 1946, and it quickly became a staple in the neighborhood. Over the years, the restaurant has hosted many famous guests, including gangsters, politicians, and celebrities. In fact, it's said that the restaurant was a favorite haunt of the infamous gangster, Al Capone.

Ambiance and Service

As you step inside Charlie Gittos On The Hill, you'll be transported to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. The dimly lit dining room, adorned with dark wood accents and white tablecloths, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of freshly cooked pasta and simmering sauces wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and building anticipation for the meal to come.

The service at Charlie Gittos On The Hill is top-notch. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about the restaurant's history and cuisine. Your server will guide you through the menu, offering recommendations and sharing stories about the restaurant's famous dishes.

Menu and Dishes

The menu at Charlie Gittos On The Hill is a love letter to Italian cuisine. You'll find classic dishes like Spaghetti and Meatballs, Fettuccine Alfredo, and Chicken Parmesan, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant also offers a range of seafood and meat options, including veal, steak, and pork chops.

One of the standout dishes at Charlie Gittos On The Hill is the famous Toasted Ravioli. This St. Louis staple consists of crispy fried ravioli filled with provel cheese and served with a side of tangy marinara sauce. It's a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant.

Appetizers and Soups

• Fried Calamari: Crispy fried squid rings served with a side of tangy marinara sauce
• Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil
• Italian Wedding Soup: A hearty soup made with meatballs, vegetables, and tiny pasta

Pasta and Risotto

• Spaghetti and Meatballs: Classic spaghetti dish made with homemade meatballs and marinara sauce
• Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy fettuccine pasta tossed in a rich Alfredo sauce
• Risotto alla Milanese: Saffron-infused risotto made with beef broth and topped with ossobuco

Entrees and Seafood

• Chicken Parmesan: Breaded and fried chicken topped with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce
• Veal Marsala: Pan-seared veal topped with Marsala wine and mushrooms
• Grilled Salmon: Fresh salmon grilled to perfection and served with a side of lemon butter

Desserts and Coffee

No meal at Charlie Gittos On The Hill is complete without dessert. The restaurant offers a range of traditional Italian desserts, including cannoli, tiramisu, and gelato. Be sure to save room for the famous Cannoli Siciliani, crispy fried pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.

Reviews and Ratings

Charlie Gittos On The Hill has received rave reviews from diners and critics alike. The restaurant has a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor and is ranked #1 on Yelp's list of Best Italian Restaurants in St. Louis.

"Don't miss the toasted ravioli! It's a game-changer." - Emily W.

"The service was top-notch and the pasta was cooked to perfection." - Mark K.

"I've been coming to Charlie Gittos On The Hill for years and it never disappoints." - Sarah T.

Final Thoughts

Charlie Gittos On The Hill is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for an authentic Italian dining experience. With its rich history, elegant atmosphere, and mouth-watering dishes, it's no wonder this restaurant has become a St. Louis institution. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Charlie Gittos On The Hill is a destination that will leave you feeling like a king.

If you've dined at Charlie Gittos On The Hill, we'd love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below!