A Heritage of Hospitality: Born in Italy, Served in St. Louis
From Italy to America
Bartolomeo “Bart” Saracino Sr. grew up in a small farming town off the Adriatic coast in southern Italy, where a deep-rooted passion for hard work and hospitality took hold. In the 1950s, he brought those values to America with just $7 and a suitcase, unknowingly laying the foundation for what would become a beloved St. Louis restaurant legacy.
First Restaurant Opens
The Saracino family opens Lacino’s in South St. Louis, planting the first seeds of what would become Bartolino’s Hospitality Group.
Bartolino’s Is Born
Bart, his wife Roseanne, and her mother Rose LaFata opened the original Bartolino’s location on The Hill, expanding our commitment to offering exceptional food and generosity.
Bartolino’s South Opens
The success of The Hill location leads to the opening of Bartolino’s South, expanding the family’s reach and introducing their signature hospitality and cuisine to South County.
A Legacy Passed On
Bart and Roseanne’s four sons—John, Bart Jr., Michael, and Chris—step into leadership, honoring their parents’ values and expanding the business with the same dedication to quality, service, and community.
Chris’ Pancake & Dining Launches
Seeking to bring the same warmth to a different style of dining, the family opens Chris’ Pancake & Dining, a cozy breakfast and brunch spot that quickly becomes a staple of St. Louis City.
Chris’ @ The Docket Opens
The Chris’ concept extends downtown with Chris’ @ The Docket, offering breakfast and lunch to professionals, students, locals, and travelers in a casual, welcoming space.
Bartolino’s Twin Oaks Opens
The newest chapter begins with Bartolino’s Twin Oaks. This modern, stylish take on the family’s Italian dining tradition brings their signature flavors to a brand-new community in West County.
A New Name, A Storied Location
RTo proudly reflect our roots and iconic setting, Bartolino’s Osteria was rebranded as Bartolino’s The Hill, honoring our history while celebrating our place in St. Louis’s famed Italian neighborhood.
Honoring Tradition While Making New Ones
While we proudly uphold the traditions that built our name, we’re always creating new ones—serving fresh dishes, welcoming new faces, and celebrating each gathering. The Bartolino’s family extends beyond the walls of our home. Though not in our family portraits, every guest becomes part of our extended family the moment they walk through our doors, because we believe everyone deserves a place at our table—Outside the Frame, Inside the Family
Listen to Our Story on Meet St. Louis
Listen to the Saracino brothers share the history of Bartolino’s Hospitality Group, starting as a small pizza restaurant on The Hill to becoming a cherished St. Louis institution in this episode of the Meet St. Louis podcast!
Listen to the podcast You are leaving the website, opens in a new tabHeart, Tradition, and Excellence
At Bartolino’s Hospitality Group, we understand that great food is only part of the dining experience. What truly distinguishes a restaurant is how it makes people feel. Our family’s mission is straightforward: Welcome every guest with open arms, serve with integrity, and create a space where individuals feel at home.
We do this by staying true to the core values we were founded upon:
Honesty & Integrity
We lead with transparency, treat everyone with respect, and always do what’s right for our guests.
Family Oriented
As a family business, we treat our guests as part of our extended family.
Guest Driven
Every detail, from the plate to the pour, is crafted to make your visit memorable.
Community Connected
Our commitment to giving back strengthens our bond with the St. Louis community.
Innovative
We blend tradition with fresh ideas to elevate our menus and spaces, creating experiences that feel timeless and new.
