If you’re cruising through St. Louis and wondering where to stop, locals will point you to Anthonino’s Taverna on The Hill.
This family-run Italian restaurant with Greek flair has earned a loyal following—and a spot on TV—for its craveable classics.
The headliner is the toasted ravioli: crisp, golden, and dunked in marinara that fans can’t stop talking about.
Come hungry, stay for the warm service, and leave plotting your return.
The Legend of the Toasted Ravioli
Anthonino’s Taverna turns St. Louis’ signature snack into a destination dish. Their toasted ravioli arrive perfectly blistered, with a delicate crunch giving way to savory, well-seasoned meat.
Each dunk into the garlicky, herb-bright marinara amplifies the experience—tangy, rich, and deeply comforting. It’s the sort of appetizer that becomes a meal because you can’t stop reaching for one more.
Locals swear by it, travelers detour for it, and many discover the bar is now set. Pair with a cold Peroni or a classic cocktail and you’re officially on The Hill’s wavelength.
Italian Roots, Greek Flair
Opened by the Scarato brothers in 2003, Anthonino’s blends Italian heritage with Greek influences to delicious effect. The menu reads like a family album: recipes honed over generations, prepared by hand, and grounded in quality.
Expect hearty Italian comforts alongside bright Mediterranean touches, from feta-kissed salads to oregano-forward dressings. The atmosphere is easygoing and neighborhood-friendly, where regulars trade greetings with staff.
Despite fame from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, the spirit remains personal and welcoming. It’s that rare spot where tradition feels vibrant, not static, and every plate tells a story worth savoring.
What to Order Beyond the T-Ravs
Start strong with baked goat cheese in marinara and crisp pita chips—creamy, tangy, and dangerously scoopable. For mains, the chicken marsala arrives tender, bathed in a balanced, mushroom-laced sauce.
Lasagna and bolognese deliver that slow-simmered depth regulars rave about, while the Figit-About-It pizza brings a figgy twist with prosciutto and onions. Don’t overlook Alfredo—silky and indulgent without weighing you down.
Save room for cannoli or tiramisu to end sweetly. If you want a varied table, mix an Italian classic with something Greek-leaning and let the flavors chat.
Insider Tips: When to Go and What It Costs
Planning pays off here. Anthonino’s is open Monday through Saturday, 11 AM to 10 PM, and closed Sundays; peak times can bring a wait, especially on Thursdays and weekends.
Expect $20–30 for most entrées, with appetizers and pizza offering great shareable value. Street parking can be tight in the neighborhood, so arrive a few minutes early.
If you’re in a hurry, aim for early dinner or a late lunch. Whether you dine in or carry out, the toasted ravioli travels well, but it’s best enjoyed hot and crisp at the table.
The Sauce That Steals the Show
Fans gush about Anthonino’s marinara for a reason. It’s vibrant and layered, with tomatoes that taste sun-ripened, lifted by garlic, basil, and a whisper of sweetness. The sauce clings beautifully to toasted ravioli and tempts you to mop every last streak with bread.
Even diners who typically avoid red sauce report unexpected conversions here. That balance—bright acidity with just enough body—anchors so many dishes across the menu.
Order extra for the table; you’ll thank yourself later. It’s not merely a dip—it’s the harmonizing note that elevates everything it touches.
Drinks and Desserts Worth the Detour
Round out your meal with a drink-and-dessert duo. The espresso martini has earned local shout-outs for its creamy texture and balanced coffee punch, while the cocktail list keeps things classic and approachable.
For sweets, oversized cannoli deliver crisp shells and lush filling, and tiramisu lands in that ideal zone: airy, espresso-kissed, not cloying. These finales feel celebratory without being fussy.
Whether you toast a date night or cap a casual lunch, the last bites and sips sum up Anthonino’s philosophy—comfort, craft, and a little indulgence.
Neighborhood Vibes on The Hill
Set at 2225 Macklind Ave, Anthonino’s anchors a beloved Italian-American enclave. The Hill’s red-brick charm and food-centric spirit make it perfect for a leisurely stroll before or after your meal.
Inside, the restaurant’s cozy bustle feels convivial without being loud, and service is warm and attentive. While parking can require patience, the neighborhood energy rewards the effort.
It’s an ideal stop for travelers seeking a taste of authentic St. Louis hospitality—where a simple plate of toasted ravioli becomes a postcard from the city’s culinary heart.
Plan Your Visit: Essentials and Contact
Ready to go? Plug 38.6143767, -90.2778436 into your map and head to Anthonino’s Taverna on Macklind. Hours run 11 AM–10 PM Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday. Call +1 314-773-4455 for the latest wait times, or browse the menu at anthoninos.com.
Expect a casual dress code and prices that reflect quality without sticker shock. If you’re passing through, consider a mid-afternoon stop to skip crowds.
However you time it, the toasted ravioli is non-negotiable—your go-to order, and a delicious St. Louis rite of passage.