Mama’s On the Hill

Specialties

One of the staples of The Hill is Mama Campisi’s, perhaps one of the most famous and historic restaurants in Saint Louis. Home of the toasted ravioli, Mama’s has become a landmark of The Hill and its Italian neighborhoods. In the early 1940s, a chef by the name of Fritz accidently dropped an order of ravioli into hot oil instead of hot water. Quickly realizing his mistake, the raviolis were removed but not discarded. Mickey Garagiola, older brother of Major League Baseball Hall-​of-​Famer Joe Garagiola, was actually at the bar during the mishap and was the first to taste the accidental treat. With some seasoning, everyone agreed that toasted ravioli was a hit and there to stay. Word quickly spread and soon other restaurants in the area started making their own versions. Toasted ravioli exploded in popularity and was soon served nationwide, although its home is on The Hill.

History

Established in 1982.

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.

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.

Meet the Business Owner

Andrea-​Lance E.

Business Owner

Andrea Ervin, new owner of the restaurant is determined. «We just hope to continue the tradition of wonderful food and service that Mama Campisi’s has provided for so long. We hope to become an even stronger part of the community.»