Joe DeGregorio
Guided Tours of The Hill
(314) 602-3359
joe.d@thehillstl.com

The Guided Tour of the Hill will provide you with an opportunity to learn and experience why this beloved neighborhood remains a special place to visit and enjoy. Besides the obvious well-known restaurants, bakeries and Italian food markets, the Hill has many other aspects that will educate, charm and delight a visitor. A tour can last anywhere from two to six hours depending on the desires of the visitor and may include any of the following:

•  A lecture at St. Ambrose Church on the colorful history of the Italian immigration to the area, why they came and stayed, plus a primer on local Italian-American culture and customs, with highlights of   the significant differences between the Northern and Southern Italian immigrants.   The culinary, architectural and religious aspects of the neighborhood will be covered plus the current climate and challenges of continuing time honored traditions. The presentation, as with featured stops listed below, will include numerous colorful stories of the hardworking and proud families-and celebrities- who have made the Hill so remarkable.

•  A ravioli making demonstration at Mama Toscano's.   This third generation run store is one of the few markets remaining in the US that make commercial ravioli by hand. The visitors will see for themselves this ancient and meticulous process.

•  A visit to wonderful Italian markets such as DiGregorio's, Viviano's, Volpi's and Urzi's is almost a must during your sojourn.     Savor and sample delicious wine, tasty cheeses, unique imported and locally made delicacies; learn the history of these stores and of course feel free to browse or purchase some of these epicurean delights.   You will find an array of Italian made crafts and souvenirs awaiting you as well.  

Click here to download Joe's Culinary Tour presentation (pptx).