50 Best Italian Restaurants near University City

“Best Pizza in town! Very fresh and tastes just like pizza in the East Coast!“

“This is the best dining experience my partner and I ever had. The food was excellent, really amazing. Every dish was a classic that was elevated by incredible, fresh ingredients and expert preparation. The flavors, textures and balance were perfect.

Every person we interacted with was genuine and warm. They were relaxed and precise. You could tell the staff are top tier professionals that love their job, love making people feel welcome, and love the restaurant.

We left Louie and almost cancelled our next plans so we could end the night on such a high note.“

“Homemade pasta, great service!“

“We wanted Italian food and we decided to go on the hill to Zia‘s. We ordered pasta dishes, which was extremely nice portion size. The bread was delicious when you dip it in olive oil. I also had the French martini which was delicious. I think if you have a taste for Italian food pasta, you couldn’t find a better place.“

“had the wings with two sides today. everything was delicious“

“First time at Failoni’s yesterday. Had pasta and marinara (I know, not very daring). The marinara can stand on its own. Wonderful. Loved the ambiance, neighborhood vibe. We were made to feel welcome right away. Was with two friends and we will be back!!“

“Delish! Great place to eat for the whole family!“

“My husband and I had visited family at SLU hospital and were in the mood for Italian food. Found this restaurant on Google and am so happy we did! Wonderful food, great service and a great atmosphere. This will certainly be our to go to restaurant from now on!“

“Great food, fair prices, friendly vibes.“

“We were celebrating our daughter receiving her Ph D. This place was highly recommended. Had a WONDERFUL experience. The food was fabulous. The staff extremely friendly. Nice wide open space. Being in the business. I was watching the other staffs interaction with guests and other co workers. EXCELLENT VIBE in the house. HIGHLY recommend. All in All. Guests Staff. Food. Cleanliness. Home Run. Great Job 👊👊👍👍“

“We had dinner last night and William our server was fantastic! delicious food and amazing service! romantic atmosphere 💖“

“Consistency in quality, flavor and service is always a given here at Trattoria Toscana. Whether a table of 2 or large parties. Great private room for large celebrations. A small family business that includes YOU in their family every time you walk in the door. Become a regular and they’ll know you by name. Catering from them is top notch options and portions. Highly recommend this South County restaurant for a Taste of Italy!!!“

“THE BEST dinner we’ve had in the past three years! The cauliflower appetizer, the romaine salad, and sea bass main course were outstanding! The service was perfect, and the ambiance and decor were terrific. Congrats to Michael and his team. A+“

“THIS POST IS ABOUT THE HOLLYWOOD CASINO LOCATION.... I SAW NO OPTION TO REVIEW ON THAT PAGE. HOLLYWOOD CASINO CHARLIE GITTO's.... MELISSA IS AN AMBASSADOR TO YOUR BRAND!!!! After taking our Grandchildren for pics with Santa, we stopped at Charlie Gitto's and were WOWED by Melissa and her teammates. Our four grandkids; ages 13 to 1, were all treated with respect, acknowledged and included, and able to see for themselves what kind of great service they should both provide in their future careers and expect from the providers they choose. The food was great, (veal, steak, seafood pasta, calamari, mocktails and cocktails, apps to dessert all was wow.) The table was perfect for our needs. The kids weren't trapped in a booth so if they needed they could have gone to restroom... but they were never bored or impatient. Everything was timed perfectly. Our Middle fella could watch the kitchen while he anticipated his dessert. Melissa coordinated the food runners, bussers etc all while making sure we had all we needed for a wow evening. Seriously.. management... listen.. I don't know her but If I thought I could hire Melissa away... I'd try. Do what you need to keep her and people will keep coming back. My wife and our grandchildren were all very happy to have a dinner we won't forget. Bottom line... the kids talked more about dinner than they did about Santa. Thank you Melissa and thank you Charlie Gitto's.“

“Wonderful atmosphere! Great service.“

“Always a great experience enjoy Jimmy as your waiter such good food and reasonably priced“

“Our family opted to eat out for Thanksgiving. I’m so glad we chose Pietros. The staff were so friendly and welcoming— like family! Service was timely and the food was incredible!“

“Best dinner we’ve had in a long time. The “trio” appetizer was awesome, salads were great and our main courses were incredible. Will definitely come back again!“

“Cannoli Cake is 🤤😋delicious“

“Guido’s is the best! Every meal I have had there is top notch. It’s our “go to” restaurant!“

“Peyton was a wonderful waitress. The food was the best. Lunch could not have been any better.“

“My partner and I were impressed with the friendliness of service and amazing food. We will definitely go back. 5-star place, for sure.“

“Good food and very professional staff“

“We had a great anniversary dinner!“

“This Restaurant is a 10 star being the best...Sue was so polite and very courteous....she greeted us on entering waited on us and brought our food out.....She is an asset to your company ..will be back tons of times“

“We had carryout catering from Vincenzo’s for an event we hosted, and it was amazing! The customer service truly elevated the entire experience. We can’t thank them enough for taking care of us and providing such a delicious meal!“

“great food and hearty portions 👍definitely recommend“

“We have been lucky enough to eat Italian food at restaurants around the world, including many in Italy. Dominic's is up there with the very best of those. A bonus is the personal service that Dominic himself provides (including the singing!)“

“Best pizza in the Midwest“

“A big "thank you" to Anthony and the staff at Bartolino's Osteria. We had our Christmas party there last week and everything was perfect--great food, very nice private room, and great support from the staff. I can't recommend this place highly enough!“

“Great place to entertain friends! Food and service were excellent. Love seeing Mary Rose in the restaurant ❤️“

“The food is delicious and consistent. I love the calzones and the salad.“

“The BEST St Louis-style (thin crust) pizza in this WHOLE TOWN. Perfect crust, perfect balanced sauce that has a zestiness to it. Their Caesar salad is the best we've had, too. Been coming here for years... It's about time I let the rest of the world know how I feel! ?

Parking: Their THIN CRUST (STL style) pizza isn't even on your list of dishes here?. IT'S THE BEST!!“

“Thanks for the OVER PRICED BLOODY WINGS! 🤮🤮🤮“

“had the wings with two sides today. everything was delicious“

“Pasta con Broccoli sauce was like water, no flavor! Moved the noodles to my wife’s dish and took it home. Service was good. Stuffed Mushrooms were ok. Won’t go back“

“Frank Papas Ristorante is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with warm smiles and an inviting atmosphere that sets the tone for an extraordinary dining experience. The ambiance is cozy yet elegant, perfect for any occasion.

The menu is a masterpiece of authentic flavors and diverse options. Every dish we tried was simply divine—starting with the fresh, crisp salads and flavorful appetizers. The entrées were outstanding; the pasta was cooked to perfection, the sauces were rich and vibrant, and the seafood tasted like it was caught that morning. And don’t even get me started on the desserts—each bite was a heavenly indulgence.

The service was impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who made sure every detail of our meal was flawless. They truly went above and beyond to ensure we felt cared for throughout the evening.

Frank Papas Ristorante delivers a dining experience that combines top-tier cuisine with exceptional service in a beautiful setting. I cannot recommend this place highly enough—it’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates quality and flavor! Five stars all the way!“

“Last night was our second time to Lorenzo’s Trattoria and again it was amazing. Our waiter, Jose, was energetic and friendly, always with a true smile on his face, wait staff kept our drinks full and used dishes cleared, but the best part was the food. Absolutely delicious! We will be back many times!“

“We ate lunch here Sunday after church October 16, 2022 and had the most attentive and delightful waiter named Chandler! Our food was great and took enough home for two more meals! Really love Joey B’s thanks n the Hill!“

“Overall amazing experience with our family here. Food was spot on - cooked perfectly - authentic flavors with an amazing wait staff!“

“Robin and I ate here Friday night (5/3). We were immediately seated outdoors in the lovely courtyard, flanked by a large, ivy covered wall. Every bite we had from the salad, Brussels Sprouts, Burrata, Wild Mushroom Risotto, and their award winning Amaretto Pie was better than the last. It truly tasted like Italy and has our wholehearted recommendation!“

“This was my first time eating here. The food was amazing and the staff was super friendly and helpful! Just an all around wonderful experience!“

“Best food and kindest people!“

“I came into sauce on the side for a interview and decided to get some food before I left. Best choice I've made all week, I live about 20 minutes from the restaurant and when I got home to eat I was amazed. The Calzone was delicious and the dough was so soft and full of flavor. Will definitely be back, I will be recommending sauce on the side to all my friends.“

“I love Pastaria! We came in to celebrate a birthday. Made a reservation in advance so wait time was pretty short. Our waitress brought us bread to start, and was very attentive throughout. We got super delicious cocktails, and split the Bucatini All' Amatriciana pasta and the Roman pizza. Both were so delicious and quite filling. Everything came so fast too, we were in and out in less than an hour. The low lighting and intimate space make it perfect for a romantic dinner for two. It was a great fancy birthday celebration. Be prepared to drop a pretty penny, but the food and drinks are worth the price tag!

Parking: They validate parking so bring your ticket with you!“

“We ordered a couple different sandwiches.. including the ORIGINAL… and holy smokes!! The ORIGINAL HOT SALAMI.. STOP! Right there .. unbelievable.. we also had the Meatball, and the Italian Trio.. but I’m trying every thing on the menu! 13 STARS“

“First impression was excellent. I was told to get a pizza but I had my eye on the chicken parm. It was good but not great. Coworker got a pizza and let me have a slice and definitely should have gotten the pizza. I’ll know next time to get the pizza.“

“Late dinner - we were in the mood for something Italian - food is fabulous - we choose lasagna and risotto - both dishes were yummy and plenty left over for lunch tomorrow - FYI: Their salad are the best!! Kayla and the house staff were fabulous as well… we will be back soon…“

“Last night we hosted my friend’s 70th BD party at the ‘Old’ Place Massa’s in Bridgeton with 12 of his family and best childhood friends. It was SO special as they all grew up near and had great memories here. Well, it was the most delightful evening ever! Mike (manager), MaryAnn (I hope I have the right name) and ALL the wait staff were so kind, friendly, and helpful … we felt like they became family too! AND THE FOOD! Never disappoints! We all ordered a variety but my pizza rocked. The drinks and appetizers didn’t disappoint-LOVE the spinach dip. Someone got their steak specialty dish and we all were jealous… it melted in your mouth. From beginning to end, it was the perfect night! And the staff and food made it GREAT! Thank you all so much!!“

“Nice atmosphere, good food and our server Dina was the best!“