Ravioli in itself is already delicious, but deep-fried ravioli, better known as toasted ravioli in the state of Missouri has taken the Italian stuffed pasta to the next level making it a foundational appetizer in the Show-Me State. The toasted ravioli craze can be traced back to two St. Louis-based restaurants, Mama Campisi's and Charlie Gitto's, both eateries located in the Italian St. Louis neighborhood known as 'The Hill.' While both establishments might be feuding over who created the savory treat, they both can claim that they started a movement that has now spread not only throughout Missouri but the entire country.
A golden-brown, fried ravioli square stuffed with seasoned meat, spinach, and cheese, topped with dashes of garlic, herbs, and parmesan originano served with a marinara dipping sauce is the traditional way it is served in Missouri. But an upscale, barbecue joint by the name of Salt + Smoke in St. Louis has upped the ante but stuffing their ravioli with burnt ends, fried them to a crisp, and serve them with a side of rich white barbecue sauce.