Originally known as Oldani's, the restaurant dates back over sixty years. In 1982, Mama Campisi herself renamed and reopened the restaurant, solidifying a local favorite into Saint Louis history. John and Frank Campisi, Mama's sons, took over the restaurant and proudly serviced The Hill for nearly two decades. In 2005, however, they had to close up shop due to personal reasons. Realizing the importance of the restaurant to the community, Lance and Andrea Ervin quickly bought the establishment and started immediately on its reopening. "Growing up in South Saint Louis, we both understood how historic and loved Mama's is by the people of The Hill," Lance Ervin said. Not wanting to waste any time or disturb its significance, they reopened Mama Campisi's in February 2006 to great fanfare of the residents and businesses of The Hill.