The Yummiest Italian in Baltimore

Benny's Baltimore

★★★★★ 4.8 (861) • $$

"My family and I came to Joe Benny's while they were in town for the weekend and had a great dinner. We got there fairly early for dinner and were seated right away. It's pretty small, so don't be surprised if there's a wait! I got the Fancy Nancy focaccia pizza (basil pesto, roasted eggplant, lemon whipped burrata, arugula tossed in balsamic). It was SO incredibly delicious. I love thick crust on pizza, so getting to eat all of these delicious toppings on focaccia bread was basically my dream pizza. They originally brought out the wrong pizza for me, so there was about a 15 minute delay between when my family got their pizza and when I got mine, but they were nice enough to waive the cost of my pizza from our bill! Best free pizza I've ever had.Can't wait to come back soon and try some other menu items!"

Amicci's

★★★★☆ 3.9 (961) • $$

"Reviewing this based on the $20 carry out deal, which is an absolute steal. Staff were super quick to ring me up when I arrived, and I saw signs about happy hour deals that made me want to sit at the cozy little bar I passed. I ordered the caesar salad, house gnocchi with spicy vodka sauce, and tiramisu. The caesar salad was okay--just croutons and lettuce, but the croutons were clearly house-made from their garlic bread so no complaints there. The dressing was thinner than store bought caesar, which I liked, and had parmesan tossed into it. The gnocchi was soft and chewy, and the toppings paired well even though I switched sauces. The portion was big enough for leftovers. The tiramisu was a little too sweet (not enough coffee flavor) for my liking. I definitely agree with others here though that it's dry for a tiramisu and needs a heavy pour of espresso. Overall, I thought the meal was great, especially for its value. I'd for sure order this deal again, but probably with a different dessert next time."

Mamma Roma

★★★★☆ 4.3 (716) • $$

"The service was quick. We were seated almost instantly, the place was jam packed which is good to see because it gave me the impression that this place must be delicious. It was a bit confusing to find out that although they seated us, they don't take our orders while we are seated. I had to walk back to the front and wait in line again to order, luckily I had my mom with me to leave my three children or else I think I would've been upset. But besides that, the staff and service were quick and amazing. I definitely recommend eating here!"

La Tavola

★★★★☆ 4.1 (772) • $$$

"I am really late on this one. I ate there in October 2024 but I still dream about the place...I had a friend from out of town coming with me to a show in Baltimore. She let me choose the restaurant. I found that La Tavola makes an in-house gluten free pasta. HUZZAH! We got a trio of carpaccios got an appetizer. Then I ordered the fra diavolo with the house made strofe (the gluten free pasta). My friend ordered a Sardinian special. I could have picked the plate. Completely satisfied with my meal. The only thing that bothered me was the ambience. It felt cold, even though it wasn't temperature cold. We went on a Sunday night and it was pretty empty. That makes me sad because their food and service is amazing."

Manalu Italian Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.4 (651) • $$

"Took my husband for his birthday and the food is DELICIOUS! Service was great (Adam)! Will definitely recommend and return."

Di Pasquale's Marketplace

★★★★★ 4.6 (563) • $$

"HEY !! BE CAREFUL! TAKE A DEEP BREATH! YOU'RE IN A 110 YEARS OLD BUSINESS!!!! In 1914, an 18 year old Luigi Di Pasquale Sr. opened a corner grocer in Highlandtown Baltimore MD, and you know what? I was lucky enough to go to that location! On May 1st, 2021 , they moved to Brewers Hill to write a new chapter of history, and finally, last week, I was able to go and visit! Wow! Now the history, the 110 years of experience, and with a great design, Di Pasquale is an Italian heaven that helps all the DMV & Baltimore people to live their Italian dream! Unless you're inside the store now while reading my review, nothing will make sense to you! Joe DiPasquale, the owner, was waiting outside the door, watching and warning everyone to pay the parking meter if they were staying and warning everyone if the towing truck was coming! Lol, that really showed me care! This guy is genuine!! He could've let any worker do that for him! But he was greeting everyone and with love taking care of us and making sure no one got ticketed or got their vehicle towed away! There are 2 styles to dine in here! To actually be seated like in a restaurant, a waitress will help you, and you eat your food in porcelain plates and metal silverware, and you can get alcohol or you take your food to go and there are 3 tables inside and a few outdoor ( the outdoor tables are like a picnic style table bench) . The MENU IS HUGE! the deli style refrigerator display has endless choices of food you can get! They know it's a lot, and that's why they have the choose 3 combo ( ask about it when you get there and look at my choices in the photos ) I also ordered 2 hot subs , the iconic Lamborghini, and the real deal veal ! I got a Tiramisu and 3 mini cannolis ! Pistachio, mocha, and traditional! Thank God I had my cousin with me to share. Otherwise, I would've been to a food coma ! But you know what?? I didn't feel tired after eating their food! Clean ingredients ;)Every single item was good!! Everything was tasty! Yummy! There are a lot of items to go back and try! Things I have no idea about, and it might take me years to explore, lol. After I was done , I shopped at the market and bought an Italian type of cookie bag that I suspected it looks like something my grandma ( we're Coptic Egyptians) used to make from milk cream and this one was made from milk cream too! And the same shape!! I got excited and got two bags! Oh my goodness! It's the same!! ( A lot of the Coptic "native Egyptian " food is shared between Greeks and Italians) Try it, vote for the review , message me, or compliment me with any comment or question, and don't forget to ... Pray for me ;)"

Nonna Angela's

★★★★☆ 4.4 (541) • $$

"Nonna's is a solid spot that I've visited several times with friends and colleagues after business events, and it never disappoints. The servers are always nice and pleasant, making for a welcoming atmosphere. Although it is a popular place (especially on Saturday nights), so we usually make a reservation for our large group, about 20 people, well in advance. They seat us comfortably in the back corner at two tables, which works out great.While the atmosphere can get a bit loud due to the crowd, it's not overwhelming like a sports bar, making it still enjoyable. The food is solid Italian fare. I've stuck to safe choices like the Spaghetti and Meatballs and Salsiccia Rustica, which have been great for my picky palate. They also serve ginger beer, but you must ask for it since it's not on the standard menu.The bathrooms are clean but small, so just keep that in mind if you're a large person. Located in a strip mall, there's ample parking and other businesses nearby. I always enjoy the area, which is conducive to a peaceful post-dinner chat outside."

Birroteca Baltimore

★★★★☆ 3.9 (639) • $$

"Well well, what can I say? I really really really wanted to love this place. But this place wouldn't let me be great. After attending a local Yelp event, I chose this place over one of my favorites because it was nearby and it has some really good Yelp reviews so I was really interested in visiting and sharing the same experience. I did not share that same experience.My Yelp friend and I decided to give this place a visit. When we 1st entered, there was a older guy named Mike. He was initially personable although really wasn't too helpful in identifying 2 seats. I asked about 2 bar seats in front of us and he told us no one was sitting there but it looks like someone has to clean it up. And that was it. He had no interest in wiping down the bar area for us or making arrangements with someone else to do it. That was a little bothersome.Another staff member (from the bar) did eventually agree to wipe the cluttered counter and we were pleased.Immediately when we sat down and requested water. ... I'm going to lessen the suspense about the water... we never got it. Collectively we ordered...- Mai Kinda Tai (Apricot Allspice Rum, Orgeat Syrup Grand Marnier, Lime Grapefruit)- Brussels Sprouts (Black Garlic Aioli, Chili Oil, Coppa)- Meatballs (House Ricotta, Tomato Sauce)- Crispy Pork BellySoon after ordering, we noticed an older couple walked in and not only were they greeted ecstatically, the older guy Mike actually cleaned off the bar area for them.Next, the bar guy Tim that was assisting us and never brought us waters, IMMEDIATELY brought them two waters. I didn't even hear them ask for water !!I'm not sure why we couldn't have water this evening but we just couldn't have water this evening.Waited 15+ minutes for bill after asking for it. Another 5 minutes while waiting for cc's and signature receipts. Something positive...The food was absolutely amazing! The food came out within 7 to 10 minutes of ordering, beautifully plated and delicious! Perfect temperature presentation!Sadly I was considering this place as one of my birthday event locations but that will not happen!! As much as I absolutely love the food, I can't go anywhere EVER where I'm not appreciated. It's 1 thing if the food wasn't as great but the customer service was bad and intentional.I can't deal with bad customer service.Do better!"

Angeli's Pizzeria

★★★★★ 4.5 (470) • $$

"I come here ANYTIME I'm in the area and man I love the vibes! The owner is kind and so approachable!The food is tasty and fresh. The drinks are on point. Definitely make it a place to visit on your Baltimore trips."

Pistarro's

★★★★☆ 4 (566) • $$

"The fig/blue potato/gorgonzola pizza is the worst thing I've ever eaten. It should not be on the menu. Or any menu. Anywhere."

Limoncello Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar

★★★★☆ 4.3 (476) • $$$

"My partner & I came to Limoncello in August (late post) to celebrate our anniversary! She picked the spot and it looked good to me! We Ubered over and were ushered to our table as soon as we walked in.Check this out, when I called to tell them we'd be a bit late, the woman on the phone told me our reservation was an hour earlier. Doh! How did that happen? However, she was sweet and told me not to worry, they would have a table for us. Life saver.Once seated our server came over to greet us and it was on from there. Limoncello martinis for everybody! My partner had the Limoncello Blush. The drinks were okay. I really wanted the Limoncello martini to be better, but everybody has different tastes. It was okay.But let me tell you about the Frito Misto! Its an appetizer (anti pasti) and was delicious! OMG, the head on shrimp were so good! Included cute little brown, paperbag cone are: head-on shrimp, crispy calamari, and octopus. If you've read any of my reviews you know I LOVE octopus. This app did not disappoint! And the sauce..... a perfect pairing. I could have had two of these and called it a day! YUM! My partner got the Mozarella D.O.P. It's basically an extravagant caprese salad. It was light and tasty. THE MAIN EVENT: Lets take about the Orecchiette! I didn't like it at all... Ha! I cleaned the plate, it was addictive. I couldn't stop eating it. It gave me comfort food vibes. The crumble-fennel sausage is what gets you. There's something different about fennel. You can taste it whenever its in a dish and it adds the 'umph' that takes any recipe over the top. I would come grab more of that to eat at home! It's good. My partner had the Linguine Sette Pesci. Those scallops were huge! That dish had a bit of everything that she loves. She was raving over that dish.We like to try different restaurants and this one did not disappoint. Give it a try."

Pizza John's

★★★★☆ 4.2 (445) • $$

"Stopped by and picked up some meatballs for dinner. I am still eating keto so I'm always looking for something that I can eat that is keto. I take my own keto bread and it's awesome to eat their meatballs with the keto bread. Win win. The parking lot is handicapped accessible as is the restaurant. They are usually pretty busy especially on weekends. The restrooms are clean and have a handicap stall The service is very quick. You can order ahead of time for take out or eat in. I recommend them for parties or if you love Italian food try this place-you won't regret it."

By The Docks Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.7 (524) • $$

"This weekend, I wanted to go somewhere that offered a variety of things so I decided to come to By the Docks. I've been here a bunch of times and I've even taken my family for celebrations and brunch. I will say say that I like the new upgrades to the decor. This was my first time being in the bar area and the booth we had was cozy. Overall my experience was decent but I had a few gripes. 1. The salad used to come with the meal but a side salad was $6 and it came in a weird bowl. It took everything in me not to knock it over. 2. My server. He was much more attentive to a table that came in after us. He checked on them often but we basically only saw him when he took our order and gave us the check. We spent more time with the food runners. He also forgot one of my items that I ordered. I'm not sure if I was charged for it because I just paid the check and left. Now to the good part....I ordered way too many items to list each one but the food was great. I don't like that they have sides set for each entrée but they will allow you to substitute which is a plus. I will return but hopefully I'll have a different server next time."

Cafe Gia Ristorante

★★★★☆ 3.9 (463) • $$

"My man loves this spot and wanted me to experience this too. I had lasagna and a sangria and he chose to eat the spinach and Fritto Misto. We forgot to take pics but enjoyed our time together and the meals were delicious."

Osteria 177

★★★★☆ 4.3 (364) • $$$

"Ambiance, service, and absolutely delicious food and beverages. This had been on the list for far too long before being able to enjoy - and it did NOT disappoint. From appetizers to dessert it was a night to remember and soon repeat It was easy to make a reservation online (recommended as it got busy even on a Monday evening - when you eat here you'll understand why) and fantastic experience all around!"

Carpaccio Tuscan Kitchen & Wine Bar

★★★★☆ 3.9 (430) • $$

"1st time dining at Carpaccio and it was underwhelming. Sat for reservations at 5:30pm on a Saturday night. They weren't super busy but, by the time we left 2 hours later there was a wait. The cocktails and lemoncello cake were delicious but, the food and the service was just ok. I had the linguine alla vongole, a dish I always get when I go out, but it was so salty that I could only get a couple of bites. The waiter was very inattentive and we had to flag him down a few times to order drinks, ask for napkins, get our check, etc. At one point I just walked uo to the front of the restaurant to ask for a dessert menu because our waiter would walk by our table without a word on his way to visit other tables multiple times. Once the food came he never came back to ask how everything was so that I could tell him that my dish was overly salty. Eventually, the bus boy cleared our plates, including my full bowl of pasta. We had noticed that several tables around us that were seated after us had received their food before us, got their check before us and were out the door before us. We aren't slow eaters and I was done eating after 3 bites. We felt sort of ignored. The managers (or what I assume are the managers) are walking around the dining room. However, I didn't see any of them stop at any tables to ask how everything was. Certainly not ours.Overall, not impressed with Carpaccio's and most likely won't be back."

Sammy's Trattoria

★★★★☆ 3.9 (414) • $$

"Made a reservation since we were feeling nostalgic for that classic Italian American dinner that you don't quite get in the DMV. The dining room is definitely a bit loud, cramped, and the staff are true to the theme, but I can't say I had a bad dish. I got the papardelle with sausage added while my partner got a chicken dish I can't remember now. We also had bread to start (so warm, so good!) and got scallops as an app. We finished off with cake and a cannoli, and definitely brought home the leftovers from dinner because this was a heavy dinner. Gotta say though, as a Philly native, something about the Italians always feel like home and this was definitely one of those experiences. A spendy evening but we got our money's worth."

Bella Indian & Italian Cuisine

★★★★☆ 4.3 (338) • $$

"The service here is top notch! The staff are very attentive and friendly. It's a small set up but had ample dining space. It did not feel too cramped. I ordered the tandoori chicken and it comes with white basmati rice. The tandoori chicken comes out sizzling! The chicken was well seasoned and moist and the rice was cooked well - not too hard, not mushy."

Trinacria - Baltimore

★★★★★ 4.5 (304) • $$

"Since I had to go a while 10 months without deli meat, I've decided I'm going to make up for it now. Yep, that's what I'm doing. Trinacria has been on my list to try foreva, I just haven't been able to get out to it since I'm no longer stationed primarily in Bmore. Anywho, like the others have said, it isn't in the greatest of areas; although it appears as though that will be changing soon. It is a small store, like grocery store that also sells food, think salads, desserts, coffee, and prepared items. They have a pretty nice sized menu of options for sammie's and they are at a great price point. I got the small Italian cold cut, everything was crazy fresh from the bread to the meats. I got a large for the him and he enjoyed his sammie as well. Loved it!"

Chiapparelli's Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.5 (495) • $$

"Wonderful traditional Italian food. Large portions. Nice location close to harbour. Attentive service."

Facci Ristorante

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (551) • $$

"Loved the eggplant appetizer and the beet salad! My husband loved the seafood with pasta and Caesar salad. Great service, too!"

Bacco Italian + Wine Bar

★★★★☆ 4.2 (332) • $$

"Place was packed so make a reservation! Food was delicious. Fresh basil on everything. The bread was warm and fresh. Our server was r he eat. She was ver knowledgeable in all the plates. Looked at all the food passing our table and decided we will be back on our next trip to Maryland! Keep up the good work!"

Tuscan Prime Italian Chophouse & Dolce Bar

★★★★☆ 4.3 (308) • $$$

"I attended a birthday dinner here for a friend this evening. The food was fabulous! Our waiter Brandon was amazing! When I say customer service oriented...it's Brandon!!!!!! I mean he was attentive, suggested entrees and just a pleasant individual! Such a great person and thank you Brandon for making sure that Thai enjoyed her birthday!"

Grano Pasta Bar

★★★★☆ 4.1 (331) • $$

"I sat outside so I didn't get to see the interior, but the bench area was super cute and had an awning over which made it perfect once the sun set behind the buildings. Service was quick, even seated outdoors, and we had the lovely pleasure of speaking to the owner at the end. She came to ask how the food was, which is not something I'm used to anymore after living in a city for years so I was warmed by the thoughtfulness. I ordered a gnocchi vodka and aperol spritz and was not disappointed by either. The gnocchi were chewy and paired well with the sauce, while the aperol was light and refreshing. Perfect dinner spot, especially in warm weather!"

BricknFire at Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards

★★★★☆ 4.3 (283) • $$

"The pizza location is inside the Marriott Hotel near Camden Yards. It's small and most people are ordering for takeout. The process takes about 7 minutes once you order your pizza, it's quickly made, pushed into the oven, and placed in the takeout box already cut/sliced. The combination pizza reminded me of a New York style, needing to fold it in half prevent it from falling forward. The flavor was very good, and I would definitely order again for a takeout experience."

Cosima

★★★★☆ 3.9 (321) • $$$

"Happy Hour was fun fun fun! Not only was a time had, the company was even better! The bar was packed to capacity, but we were accommodated at the perfect time to share food and a great chat amongst newly made friends. The pinsa was light and fluffy, the oliva fritta was sooooo addictive (a MUST ORDER), and the Arancina was a buttery compliment to wash it all down. Lighting and vibes were top notch! Cosima will ALWAYS be a repeat drop-in/indulge moment!"

Tino's Italian Bistro

★★★★☆ 3.7 (346) • $$

"Finally had the chance to check out Tino's and I was pleasantly surprised. A friend from work son was hosting an event for Lumiere Vodka so I came after work. The parking lot is small but I was lucky to find a spot near the front entrance. I made a reservation to make sure I had a table since I expected the event to be well attended. I checked in with the hostess and was seated quickly. The interior is small. A small bar separates the two sides of the dinning area. They have additional seating outside. For the event there was a live music performing outside as well. The waitress Trish was great. She explained the menu and offered some suggestions on what she enjoyed. I chose the veal parmigiana. She provided some fresh bread with olive oil. The main course came out very quickly. The flavor was delicious. It was so good that I forgot to take a picture before I dug in. The portion was large enough for me to have leftovers to take home. Prices are reasonable with some good looking lunch specials. I will definitely return."

Facci Ristorante

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (451) • $$

"Great ambiance and super friendly service! The food was great, and our kids loved the choices on the kids menu. Our super picky 6 year old said it was the best Alfredo pasta he's ever had as well."

Giolitti Delicatessen

★★★★☆ 4.3 (249) • $$

"Dinner for under $20! I ordered a bowl of lemon chicken orzo soup, a half Milano sandwich, and a drink (brewed iced tea with fresh lemon). The soup was hearty, flavorful, and the fresh carrots and celery showed that it was made in-house. The Milano sandwich was a work of art! The high-quality ingredients included bread, mozzarella, olives, prosciutto, and olive oil."

Dolce

★★★★★ 4.6 (215) • $$

"Lovely little restaurant. Must try for the Hagerstown area!! It's a small hole in the wall family owned restaurant. The family is from Romania. The pizza is one of my favorite things here, as well as the Lasagna. When you dine in they always give a homemade roll with butter as an appetizer and a donut kind of funnel cake with powdered sugar as a dessert. It's a smaller space but kind of cozy inside. Service is always pretty quick no matter how busy it is and they are very friendly and always up for conversation. Overall, it's one of my favorite places to go in Hagerstown!"

The Olive Tree- Aberdeen

★★★★☆ 3.6 (347) • $$

"I love eating here, I stop by every time I am driving up 95. The food, service and atmosphere are all top notch. Don't sleep on the fresh bead and salad's, save room for the entrees:) you won't be disappointed"

Arturo's Trattoria

★★★★★ 4.6 (212) • $$$

"Absolutely spectacular! The food is refined Northern Italian! Nice wine list. Great service. I can't believe such an outstanding restaurant is in Glen Burnie! If it's not on the menu, ask for the fried mozzarella appetizer. You won't be sorry. We had the veal special and the swordfish special and both were clean-the-plate delicious. The flourless chocolate cake was the perfect ending to the meal. Thanks to Wes and everyone at Arturo's for a fabulous dining experience!"

Cafe Mezzanotte

★★★★☆ 3.8 (303) • $$$

"1000 times better Maggiannos ; excellent quality of Italian cuisine . I definitely will come all the birthday celebrations and I am a bit bias . I love Italian food"

Giuseppi’s Pizza Plus

★★★★☆ 3.7 (315) • $

"My friend has been going to this place for over 20Years and raves about it. He brought me here yesterday and wow it is pretty good. The prices are great also. Everyday pizza special two pieces of pizza and a soda for $6.50!!!! What!?The owner Steve is super friendly. Love how you can watch them make and bake your pizzas through the glass. Womens bathroom was clean. Sweet and unsweet iced tea in the self serve soda fountain.My slices had mushrooms and black olives. A lot food for the price. Tasty New York style flat crust. Mmmmm"

Marie Louise Bistro

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (372) • $$

"Marie Louise continues to be a Mt Vernon staple, known for great food and friendly service. Nice atmosphere with seating options at both the upper and main floor."