Think about a ravioli. A freshly made pasta pillow stuffed with meat and cheese. What could be better? Just ask the city of St. Louis and the answer is toasted ravioli. The origin of this fried delicacy is still up for debate, however, the general consensus is that it was a complete accident! Apparently, a cook dropped some ravioli into a pot of hot oil instead of boiling water. This blunder resulted in a crunchy exterior with a gooey, warm filling.
You can find toasted ravioli at countless restaurants in St. Louis, especially in the Italian neighborhood “The Hill.” If you’re a local, or tourist in the area, looking to sink your teeth into some fried-cheesy-goodness, here are some suggestions.
Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill
This landmark for fine Italian dining claims to be the home and birthplace of toasted ravioli. In 1947, in the kitchen of Angelo’s (the restaurant’s former name) was where the accidental dish was created. Charlie Gitto’s is a favorite of many due to its history paired with the scrumptious meat and cheese toasted ravioli served with their famous Pomodoro sauce.
Anthonino’s Taverna On the Hill
As one of the most popular family-owned restaurants on The Hill, Anthonino’s has been serving up a mix of Italian and Greek food since 2003. The restaurant has won several awards, including the honor of their toasted ravioli being on Spoon University’s list of “25 Best Foods to Eat Before You Die”. Anthonino’s has also been featured on the popular Food Network show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Trattoria Marcella
According to St. Louis local, Monietta Slay, this place has “amazing home-made toasted ravioli”. In addition to winning the title of Best Homemade Toasted Ravioli by the St. Louis Post – Dispatch, Trattoria Marcella has been named the Most Popular Restaurant in St. Louis by the Zagat Guide and the Award of Excellence for One of the Most Outstanding Wine Lists in the World by Wine Spectactor.
- By Ettractions Digital Content Editor PAULA MARINO
(top photo by Anthonino's Taverna, Instagram @anthoninos_taverna)
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