Osteria 177 177 Main Street Annapolis , MD 21401 (410) 267-7700 http://osteria177.com By Gilles and Kathy Syglowski
177 Main Street Annapolis , MD 21401 (410) 267-7700 http://osteria177.com By Gilles and Kathy Syglowski
Osteria means to host or to cater —in other words, it implies “to make you feel welcome with good food and good service in a comfortable atmosphere!” And that is exactly what we got on our visit to Osteria 177, Annapolis 's newest downtown dining establishment.
The location, 177 Main Street , has seen a couple restaurants come and go, and we had visited each of them. To our pleasant surprise, for the first time we saw the restaurant full with a line waiting for tables—a good omen perhaps? Thankfully, we had a reservation.
Open now for several months under the ownership of James Kajowski, Michael Loprete, Chef Mauricio Cotti, and Arturo Ottaviano, it has a refreshing coastal Italian-Mediterranean style for the overall theme. The décor is elegant and casual, with cherry wood paneling and plush leather booths along the perimeter of the dining room, tables with very modern and interesting-looking chairs in the center, and wonderful paintings hung on the walls. We felt very comfortable.
Ottaviano remembered us from a previous establishment we frequented, where he was maître d', and we knew we were in good hands.
Aaron, our waiter, greeted us and presented the menus. We enjoyed the shorter version of the menu, with a nice variety of items and not too many specials to complicate decisions. Pat and Henry, two longtime friends who we had not seen for few years, joined us, which made dinner even more special. After cocktails we enjoyed a starter: grilled marinated calamari over mixed greens and laced with an extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice dressing ($9.50). The dish was oh-so-different from a typical fried calamari dish—it exhibited much more texture and flavor. Kathy also opted for a wonderful potato, leek, and asparagus cream soup ($6) with an interesting light swirl of olive oil that gave it a special zing.
As a second course we shared the house salad ($5), served perfectly tossed—one of my favorite quality notes of a well made salad. Fresh, mixed field greens were adorned with tomatoes and seasonal garnish and tossed with extra virgin olive oil and white wine vinegar dressing. The delicate mixed greens maintained crispness.
Our entrées soon followed, with exceptional quality and presentation. We decided to share three of them. The rockfish ($24) was perfectly pan seared and served over wilted escarole, golden raisins, toasted pine nuts, and kalamata olives, then finished with lemon-infused extra virgin olive oil. The fillet of fish remained so moist and delicate, it was excellent. The grouper ($24) was sautéed and served in a white wine sauce with garlic, sweet capers, baked Cerignola olives, and cherry tomatoes. The freshness of the fish was indisputable and added to the grace of the dish. The large Italian Cerignola olives, from southeastern Italy , are very meaty and flavorful, much more so than common, “grocery store” olives.
Of course, dining Italian without pasta would be unacceptable, so our third choice was the spaghetti Osteria ($22). T he organic, natural squid-ink spaghetti (also available with regular linguine), sautéed with sliced, fresh baby calamari; shrimp; and sea scallops in a light cherry tomato white wine sauce, was fantastic. The sauce had well balanced viscosity (not too thick) and flavor, and the seafood was perfectly cooked.
For an elegant ending, we splurged on a few desserts. The pear tart ($7) was my favorite, with its fresh poached pears on a thin crust, drizzled with a sauce similar to mocha chocolate, and served with a dollop of ice cream. The crème brulee ($7) was a classic and well done. The berry cheesecake ($9) was subtle, smooth, and rich, and it sent us home with smiles all around.
Osteria 177 will soon start to host a monthly wine dinner in conjunction with Wine Cellars of Annapolis. Regional menus will be designed to enhance the flavors of the featured wines. Specific details will be available on the Web site, www.osteria177.com.
In addition, the restaurant will offer an all-occasion, upscale, carryout catering service for those who wish to provide a fresh and unique dining experience to guests in their homes. Sample menus are currently on the Web site, but at this time interested patrons should contact the restaurant by telephone at (410) 267-7700 to arrange specific details.
It is clear that the partners are bringing an abundance of knowledge and experience to Osteria 177. From the warm welcome of Ottaviano to the talents of Chef Cotti, you will definitely enjoy your experience there.
When to Enjoy:
Lunch Mon. - Fri. 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Dinner Mon. - Thurs. 5 - 10 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 5 - 11 p.m.
Open Sun. 12 - 9 p.m.
Expect to Pay:
Appetizers $7 - 13
Entrees $16 - 42
Drinks $2 and up
“You will definitely enjoy yourself.”
—Gilles Syglowski
Ratings for food, atmosphere, and service range from 1 to 20. Average price refers to the cost of a typical dinner entree. Comments quotes are selected to be representative of all those we’ve received. Add your own review by sending in the form on page 104 in What's Up Annapolis magazine—you could win our monthly drawing for a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant.
Key: B, L, D, SB = Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Sunday Brunch CC = credit cards accepted K = children’s menu Remember, numbers listed are an average of all ratings received since 1997.
Downtown
49 West 49 West St., Annapolis 410-626-9796 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $12–19 B,L,D/CC Relaxed, artistic café with offerings for all hours of the day
aqua terra 164 Main St., Annapolis 410-263-1985 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $19–32 L,D/CC Cosmopolitan upscale cuisine
Armadillos 132 Dock St., Annapolis 410-280-0028 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $8–13 L,D/CC Lively Tex-Mex restaurant on City Dock, also serving American classics
Breeze 126 West St., Annapolis 410-295-3232 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $18–30 B,L,D/CC Seafood specialties, “small plates,” and more in an elegant setting
Buddy’s Crabs and Ribs 100 Main St., Annapolis 410-626-1100 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $10–25 L,D,SB/CC/K Ribs, seafood and more in a family-friendly atmosphere overlooking City Dock
Café Normandie 185 Main St., Annapolis 410-280-6470 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $16–30 B,L,D/CC/K Authentic French cuisine served in a cozy atmosphere “As a local, I highly recommend giving Café Normandie a try.”—Anonymous
Castlebay Irish Pub 193-A Main St., Annapolis 410-626-0165 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $7–25 L,D, Sat. & Sun. B/CC/K Traditional Irish fare with “home-brewed” beers on tap, in addition to a full bar
Chick And Ruth’s Delly 165 Main St., Annapolis 410-269-6737 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $2-28 B,L,D/CC Historic diner serving local celebrity-named dishes “A unique historical place. Great food.”—Anne Koch
Corner Café 137 Prince George St., Annapolis 410-280-1956 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $4–6 L,D, Sat. & Sun. B/CC Soups, sandwiches, wraps, and appetizers, with Middle East and local specialties
El Toro Bravo 50 West St., Annapolis 410-267-5949 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $6–9 L,D/CC/K Wide and varied selection of Mexican dishes
Galway Bay 63 Maryland Ave., Annapolis 410-263-8333 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $11–22 L,D,SB/CC/K Traditional Irish fare, beverages, and hospitality
Griffin’s 22 Market Space, City Dock, Annapolis 410-268-2576 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $12–27 L,D/CC/K Seafood, steaks, sandwiches, and a convivial bar
Harry Browne’s 66 State Circle, Annapolis 410-263-4332 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $24–36 L,D,SB/CC Elegant downtown establishment serving seafood, steaks, poultry/game, and more
India’s 257 West St., Annapolis 410-263-7900 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $12–17 L,D/CC A wide selection of exotic entrees, including vegetarian choices
Joss 195 Main St., Annapolis 410-263-4688 Food 20/Atmos 17/Service 19/Range $10–20 L,D/CC Sushi and Japanese cuisine, elegantly prepared and served
Kyma 69 West St., Annapolis 410-268-0003 Food 16/Atmos 19/Service 17/Range $3.75-49 L,D/CC Mediterranean cuisine served tapas (small plates) style “Love the martinis!”—Tomoko Yamashita
Luna Blu 36 West St., Annapolis 410-267-9950 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $13–23 L,D/CC Exquisite Italian dishes served in a contemporary atmosphere
Maria’s Sicilian Ristorante and Café 12 Market Space, Annapolis 410-268-2112 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $13–38 L,D/CC/K Family-operated Italian dining in downtown Annapolis
McGarvey’s Saloon & Oyster Bar 8 Market Space, City Dock, Annapolis 410-263-5772 Food 18/Atmos 20/Service 15/Range $6–25 L,D,SB/CC Oysters, seafood, steaks, and pub fare in a classic saloon setting
Middleton Tavern City Dock, Annapolis 410-263-3323 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $14–68 L,D/CC/K Colonial-era tavern specializing in seafood and steak entrees
Nano Asian Dining 189-A Main St., Annapolis 410-267-6688 Food 19/Atmos 20/Service 20/Range $9-20 L,D, CC/K Full sushi bar and Asian cuisine with traditional Tatami room “Great restaurant, atmosphere, excellent entrees—sashimi and maki rolls are the best in Annapolis.”—Burnes Brown
O’Brien’s 113 Main Street, Annapolis 410-268-6288 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $16–30 L,D, Sat. & Sun. B/CC/K Seafood specialties and raw oyster bar
Phillips Seafood Restaurant 12 Dock St., City Dock, Annapolis 410-990-9888 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $17–33 L,D/CC/K Crab cakes, seafood, and more overlooking City Dock
Piccola Roma 200 Main St., Annapolis 410-268-7898 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $15–29 L,D/CC Classic and modern Italian dining in handsome surroundings
Potato Valley Café 47 State Circle, Annapolis 410-267-0902 Food 20/Atmos 20/Service 20/Range $3–8 L,D/CC/K Overstuffed baked potatoes with a variety of toppings
Pusser’s Caribbean Grille 80 Compromise St., Annapolis 410-626-0004 Food 18/Atmos 20/Service 19/Range $7.95-38.50 L,D,SB/CC Sophisticated seafood and pasta dishes in an island setting overlooking ego alley
Rams Head Tavern 33 West St., Annapolis 410-268-4545 Food 18/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $8–35 L,D,SB/CC/K Craft brewery serving American classics and signature dishes
Reynolds Tavern & Sly Fox Pub 7 Church Circle, Annapolis 410-295-9555 Food 19/Atmos 20/Service 20/Range $14–29 L,D/CC Elegant casual and alfresco dining, English Tea room, and pub fare
Sean Donlon’s Restaurant and Irish Bar 37 West St., Annapolis 410-263-1993 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $7–10 L,D,SB/CC/K Irish and American cuisine served in a jovial pub atmosphere
Treaty of Paris 16 Church Circle, Annapolis 410-216-6340 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $28–37 B,L,D,SB/CC 18th-century fine dining establishment
Tsunami 51 West St., Annapolis 410-990-9868 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 17/Range $6–27 L,D/CC Chic Japanese-European-American fusion cuisine and sushi
Viet Thai Paradise 2625 Riva Rd., Suite A&B, Annapolis 410-266-8222 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $7.50-22 L,D/CC East Asian cuisine in a peaceful setting “Fresh, quality food in an attractive, relaxing new restaurant. The waiters were helpful and provided quality service.”—Sharon Boone
Yin Yankee Café 105 Main St., Annapolis 410-268-8703 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $9–31 L,D/CC/K Asian-American seafood fusion and sushi
Eastport/Bay Ridge
Adam’s Ribs East 921C Chesapeake Ave., Annapolis 410-267-0064 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $8–23 L,D/CC/K Convenient location for signature ribs and steaks
Boatyard Bar and Grill 400 4th St., Annapolis 410-216-6206 Food 17/Atmos 18/Service 17/Range $8–24 L,D, Sat.-Sun. Breakfast/CC/K American and seafood favorites, including sandwiches, pub fare, and entrees
Carrol’s Creek 410 Severn Ave., Annapolis 410-263-8102 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $8–30 L,D,SB/CC Elegant waterfront dining; seafood and steaks
Chart House 300 2nd Street, Annapolis 410-268-7166 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $16–35 D,SB/CC/K Upscale seafood establishment with a popular salad bar “I enjoyed my meal. It was very tasty. I will be coming back with my family.”—Cecilia Derrick
Davis’ Pub 400 Chester Ave., Annapolis 410-268-7432 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 19/Range $7–15 L,D/CC/K Locals’ hangout serving American dishes, seafood, and traditional pub fare
Grump’s Café 117 Hillsmere Dr., Annapolis 410-267-0229 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $3–18 B,L,D/CC/K A favorite in Bay Ridge for breakfast, classic American sandwiches, and comfort food
La Rose de Saigon 960 Bay Ridge Rd., Annapolis 410-268-8484 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $9–20 L,D/CC Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices
Ledo Pizza 505 S. Cherry Grove, Annapolis 410-295-3030 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $5-19 L,D/CC/K Salads, pizzas, pastas, and more
Lewnes Steakhouse 401 4th St., Annapolis 410-263-1617 Food 20/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $25–32 D/CC Serving fine cuts of beef in an upscale atmosphere
The Main Ingredient 914 Bay Ridge Ave., Annapolis 410-626-0388 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $7–28 L,D/CC Innovative and elegant café items and catering services “Really great lunch menu!”—Daryl Hodge
Mexican Café 975 Bay Ridge Rd., Annapolis 410-626-1520 Food 17/Atmos 17/Service 16/Range $6–17 L,D/CC/K Indoor and outdoor dining, with Mexican fare and “locals’ favorite” margaritas
O’Learys Seafood Restaurant 310 3rd St., Annapolis 410-263-0884 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $26–33 D/CC/K Contemporary, upscale Maryland seafood
Rockfish 400 6th St., Annapolis 410-267-1800 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $8–29 L,D,SB/CC/K New upscale seafood establishment with large bar area
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse 301 Severn Ave., Annapolis 410-990-0033 Food 20/Atmos 18/Service 20/Range $25–30 D/CC Upscale steak house serving prime cuts of beef and more
Sam’s On the Waterfront 2020 Chesapeake Harbour Dr. E., Annapolis 410-263-3600 Food 20/Atmos 20/Service 20/Range $8–25 L,D/CC/K Modern American cuisine in a waterfront setting
Squisito’s 1007A Bay Ridge Ave., Annapolis 410-990-9800 Food 19/Atmos 16/Service 18/Range $3-15 L,D/CC/K An Italian spread of pasta, pizza, subs, and salads
Wet Dog Café 7082 Bembe Beach Rd., Annapolis 410-263-7914 Food 19/Atmos 17/Service 20/Range $5–7 B,L Smaller sandwich shop in a marina
Wild Orchid 909 Bay Ridge Ave., Annapolis 410-268-8009 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $9–37 (prix fixe) L,D,SB/CC Contemporary American cuisine with Southern and French influences
Greater Annapolis
Baja Fresh 2512 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis 410-897-0090 Food 15/Atmos 16/Service 16/Range $6+ L,D/CC/K Fresh Mexican food prepared to order for dining in or takeout
Bertucci’s 2207 Forest Dr., Annapolis 410-266-5800 Food 17/Atmos 16/Service 19/Range $11–14 L,D/CC/K Brick oven pizza is the specialty; also features signature Italian dishes
Broadneck Grill 1364 Cape St. Claire Rd., Annapolis 410-757-0002 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $5–15 L,D,SB/CC/K Neighborhood favorite serving American, Mexican, and seafood dishes “Neighborhood place with Mexican entrees as a bonus!”—Daryl Hodge
California Pizza Kitchen 22 Annapolis Mall, Annapolis 410-573-2060 Food 18/Atmos 13/Service 18/Range $5-14 L,D/CC/K West coast pizza including pastas and salads in a casual atmosphere
Cantler’s Riverside Inn 458 Forest Beach Rd., Annapolis 410-757-1311 Food 17/Atmos 17/Service 17/Range $16–24 L,D/CC/K Waterfront setting offering crabs, seafood, lobster, and steaks
Cheeburger Cheeburger 2329 Forest Dr., Annapolis 410-224-7297 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $5–11 L,D/CC/K “Design it yourself” hamburgers and cheeseburgers
Chevy’s 2430 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis 410-573-4939 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $8–14 L,D/CC/K Lively southwestern atmosphere, Tex-Mex cuisine, and jumbo margaritas; kid friendly
Chris’ Charcoal Pit 1946 West St., Annapolis 410-266-5200 Food 19/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $9–15 L,D/K Lively authentic Greek restaurant, family owned
Copeland’s 177 Jennifer Rd., Annapolis 410-571-0860 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 17/Range $5–29 L,D/CC/K Authentic New Orleans/French Cuisine
Double T Diner West St. & Rte. 2, Annapolis 410-571-9070 Food 15/Atmos 15/Service 17/Range $4–25 (seafood) 24 hrs./CC/K Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner 24/7
Famous Dave’s of America 181 Jennifer Rd., Annapolis 410-224-2207 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $5–14 L,D/CC/K Barbecue pork is the specialty for dine in or takeout
Giolitti’s Delicatessen 2068 Somerville Rd., Annapolis 410-266-8600 Food 19/Atmos 17/Service 17/Range $3.95–10 L,D/CC/K Italian deli, market, and restaurant serving fresh, homemade dishes daily
Griffin’s West Street West St. at Rte. 2, Annapolis 410-266-7662 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 17/Range $7–25 L,D/CC/K Seafood, steaks, sandwiches, and a wide range of entrees
Heroes Restaurant 1 Riverview Ave., Annapolis 410-573-1996 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $6–17 L,D/CC/K Pub fare, sandwiches, 44 beers on tap, and sports on the many TVs
Jalapeños 85 Forest Dr., Forest Plaza, Annapolis 410-266-7580 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $8–24 L,D/CC/K Fine Spanish and Mexican cuisine in attractive setting “I especially like the tapas menu. Two or three of these make a great meal.”—Michael Brand
Lebanese Taverna Annapolis Harbour Center 410-897-1111 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $6–13 L,D/CC Middle East specialties including traditional mezza (appetizers), kebabs, and salads
Les Folies 2552 Riva Rd., Annapolis 410-573-0970 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $19–28 L,D/CC Upscale, authentic French cuisine
Macaroni Grill 178 Jennifer Rd., Jennifer Plaza, Annapolis 410-573-1717 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $8–18 CC/K Italian favorites and signature dishes in a festive setting
Mama Lucia’s Annapolis Plaza, Annapolis 410-266-1666 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $10–17 L,D/CC/K Varied selection of Italian dishes and pizza, eat in or take out
Melting Pot 2348 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis 410-266-8004 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $18–52 (fondue for two) D/CC Fine dining, fondues, and wine for every palate
Northwoods 609 Melvin Ave., Annapolis 410-268-2609 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $22–29 D/CC Four-star gourmet prix fixe menu and more “Made reservations to celebrate 56th wedding anniversary. Asked for a nice table, which we were greeted with ‘Happy Anniversary!’ Everything made our evening very special.” –J. Meadows
Old Country Buffet 81-A Forest Dr., Annapolis 410-224-0921 Food 17/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $7.29–9.89 L,D,Sat.& Sun. B/CC Large, buffet-style restaurant with a wide range of choices
Outback Steakhouse 2207 Forest Dr., Forest Plaza, Annapolis 410-266-7229 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $12–24 D/CC/K Steaks are the specialty at this lively Australian chain
Paul’s Homewood Café 919 West St., Annapolis 410-267-7891 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $3–22 L,D/CC Greek specialties, classic sandwiches, and salads
Red, Hot & Blue 200 Old Mill Bottom Rd., Annapolis 410-626-7427 Food 17/Atmos 16/Service 16/Range $6–22 L,D/CC/K Memphis style sandwiches, ribs, and barbecue
Red Lobster Restaurant Park, Annapolis 410-266-5010 Food 18/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $6–29 L,D/CC/K Seafood classics in a casual atmosphere
Red Robin 1073 Annapolis Mall, Annapolis 410-573-1155 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $8-13 L,D/CC/K A variety of gourmet burgers, milkshakes, and classic sandwiches
Ruby Tuesday 2025 Somerville Rd., Annapolis 410-266-7669 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 17/Range $7–17 L,D/CC/K American dishes, some with New Orleans flair; includes salad bar
Sakura 2625 Housley Rd., Annapolis 410-573-0006 Food 20/Atmos 20/Service 20/Range $13–31 L,D/CC Sushi and Japanese steak house
Saucy Salamander 2661 Riva Rd., Suite 801, Annapolis 410-266-1622 Food 20/Atmos 20/Service 20/Range $7–9 L/CC/K Sandwiches and wraps, emphasis on vegetarian and healthy selections
Severn Inn 1993 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Annapolis 410-349-4000 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $21-34 L/CC/D Waterfront dining with fine beef and fresh fish selections
Sputnik Café 1397 Generals Hwy., Crownsville 410-923-3775 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $21–30 D/CC Funky Euro-Asian café serving upscale cuisine “The eclectic and most casual atmosphere alone will give you something to talk about all night.”—Vicki Dyson
T.G.I. Fridays Annapolis Harbour Center 410-224-4870 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $7–18 L,D/CC/K Vibrant atmosphere; large and varied menu and drink selections
Three Brothers Pizza 2341 Forest Dr., Annapolis 410-573-0807 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $2–14 L,D/CC/K Italian fare and pizzas are the specialties at this family restaurant
Arnold/Severna Park/Pasadena/Glen Burnie
Adam’s Ribs Severna Park 589 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd., Severna Park 410-647-5757 Food 19/Atmos 17/Service 19/Range $6–25 L,D/CC/K Adam’s signature ribs and steaks
Bill Bateman’s Bistro 556 Gov. Ritchie Hwy., Severna Park 410-315-7960 Food 17/Atmos 17/Service 16/Range $6–18 L,D/CC/K Large selection of American classics, Italian, seafood, and pub fare
Café Bretton 849 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd., Severna Park 410-647-8222 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $22–33 D/CC Upscale American and European cuisine
Café Mezzanotte 760 Ritchie Hwy., Severna Park 410-647-1100 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $9–34 L,D/CC/K Authentic Italian cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere
Cheshire Crab 1701 Poplar Ridge Rd., Pasadena 410-360-2220 Food 18/Atmos 16/Service 16/Range $6–27 L,D/CC/K Full menu of seafood, steaks, and sandwiches; on the water
Deep Creek Restaurant and Marina 1050 Deep Creek Ave., Arnold 410-757-4045 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $9–25 L,D,SB/CC/K Specializing in fine seafood dining on the water
Garry’s Grill 553-A Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd., Severna Park 410-544-0499 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $6–16 B,L,D/CC/K A neighborhood favorite with eclectic choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
George’s Restaurant 1274 Bay Dale Dr., Arnold 410-757-3400 Food 18/Atmos 15/Service 16/Range $6–19 L,D/CC/K Casual, family-owned restaurant with Italian and Greek specialties
Kerri Out Food 544 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Severna Park 410-544-2660 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $3-16 L,D/CC Gourmet sandwiches and salads with catering services “Wonderful food, wonderful setting and service, everything is absolutely delicious!”—Rhiannon Gelston
Kyoto Steak House 568-C Ritchie Hwy., Severna Park 410-647-4500 Food 20/Atmos 20/Service 20/Range $8–41 L,D/CC/K Japanese cuisine prepared with flair
Moulin de Paris 578 Benfield Blvd., Severna Park 410-647-7699 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $7–23 L,D/CC/K French and Vietnamese cuisine, also featuring vegetarian selections
O’Loughlin’s Bay Hills Shopping Center, Arnold 410-349-0200 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 17/Range $12–20 D,SB/CC/K Irish-American and seafood selections
Romano’s 6905 Ritchie Hwy., Glen Burnie 410-768-8188 Food 20/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $12–29 D/CC Italian, Greek, and seafood specialties
Romilo’s 478 Ritchie Hwy., Severna Park 410-544-6188 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $5–18 L,D/CC/K Casual Italian cuisine
Szechuan Inn Benfield Village Shopping Center, Severna Park 410-544-0227 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $5–18 L,D/CC Selections that capture the flavors of the Orient
Texas Steaks 969 Ritchie Hwy., Arnold 410-975-9662 Food 17/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $8–26 L,D/CC/K Neighborhood steak house with lively bar
Windows on the Bay 1402 Colony Rd., Pasadena 410-255-1413 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $9–27 SB,L,D/CC/K Seafood served in an elegant waterfront setting
Woodfire Grill 580 Park Plaza, Suite P, Severna Park 410-315-8100 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $13–30 L,D/CC/K Woodburning grills and ovens; serving seafood, steaks, and more
Yomato’s 959 Ritchie Hwy., Arnold 410-518-6990 Food 19/Atmos 17/Service 20/Range $7–14 L,D Serving Sushi and Japanese cuisine
Davidsonville/Edgewater/South County
Adam’s Ribs Edgewater 169 Mayo Rd., Edgewater 410-956-2995 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $4–22 L,D/CC/K Flagship restaurant of the Adam’s Ribs local chain
Edgewater Restaurant 148 Mayo Rd., Edgewater 410-956-3202 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $6–45 L,D/CC/K Jumbo crab cakes and seafood are the house specialties
Greene Turtle 3213-A Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater 410-956-1144 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 17/Range $9–18 L,D/CC/K American classics in a sport-minded setting, ideal for families
Jake’s Steaks South River Colony, Edgewater 410-956-4420 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $5–6 L,D/K Eat in or take out fresh Philly-style cheese-steaks
Killarney House 584 Central Ave., Davidsonville 410-798-8700 Food 19/Atmos 17/Service 19/Range $11–24 L,D/CC/K Authentic Irish fare served in a relaxed, neighborhood atmosphere
Ledo Pizza 3072 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater 410-956-6700 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 17/Range $6–9 L,D/K Popular, inexpensive family pizza and pasta eatery
Mike’s Crab House 3030 Old Riva Rd., Annapolis 410-956-2784 Food 17/Atmos 16/Service 17/Range $20–30 L,D/CC/K Crabs, seafood, burgers, and more, on the water
Old Stein Inn 1143 Central Ave., Edgewater 410-798-6807 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $14–22 D/CC/K Authentic German specialties and beer in a family-owned establishment “The food was creative and delicious!”—Brooke McClelland
Original Steak House and Sports Theatre 139 Mitchells Chance Rd., Edgewater 410-956-0790 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $11–23 D/CC Steak specialties in the environment of large-screen televisions
Paul’s on the South River 3027 Riva Rd., Annapolis 410-956-3410 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $16–34 L,D/CC Eurasian, Caribbean, American, and Maryland seafood in an elegant setting
Pirate’s Cove 4817 Riverside Dr., Galesville 410-867-2300 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 18/Range $7–24 (market price) L,D,SB/CC/K Fresh seafood selections and more served on the West River waterfront “Delicious crab meat.”—Oscar Grimes
Wharfside Bar & Grill 158 W Central Ave., Edgewater 410-798-4545 Food 15/Atmos 17/Service 19/Range $6-20 L,D,B on Sun./CC Offers three menus with a wide variety of items from breakfast fare to sandwiches and crab cakes
Yellowfin 2804 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater 410-573-1333 Food 19/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $16–36 D/CC Upscale seafood in a contemporary setting overlooking the South River
Gambrills/Odenton/Crofton/Millersville
Big Fish Grille 1260 South Crain Hwy., Crofton 410-451-3133 Food 17/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $7-30 D/CC/K Fused Asian and European seafood dining
Christopher’s 1286 Rte. 3, Crofton 410-451-1602 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $8–28 L,D,SB/CC/K Bistro atmosphere serving seafood, chicken, steaks, pasta, and more
Fins 1629 Crofton Centre, Crofton 301-261-3366 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $13-25 L,D/CC/K Hawaiian Fusion and sushi bar
Fuji Steak House 1314 Main Chapel Way, Gambrills 410-721-6880 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $8–12 L,D/CC A Japanese steak house
Hella’s 8498 Veterans Hwy., Millersville 410-987-0948 Food 18/Atmos 14/Service 17/Range $16–27 L,D/CC Seafood, beef, and veal dishes highlight the menu. “The crab cakes are the best and a very reasonable price. All of the staff was very friendly.”—Mary Kay Vanhorn
Hunan L’Rose 1131 Annapolis Rd., Odenton 410-672-2928 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $7–18 L,D/CC Extensive selection of Szechuan and Hunan cuisine
Gina’s Cantina 722 Generals Hwy, Millersville 410-923-8226 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $6-12 L,D/CC/K Fun Mexican selections with custom brewed Fordham beer
Kaufmann’s Tavern 329 Gambrills Rd., Gambrills 410-923-2005 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $5-28 L,D/CC/K A generous spread of seafood and steak specialties
La Fiesta 1149 Md. Rt. 3, Gambrills 410-721-3342 Food 20/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $6–14 L,D/CC Mexican fare in an intimate atmosphere
Ledo Pizza at Eddie’s Place 1286 Rte. 3 South, Crofton 410-721-5200 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 20/Range $6–8 L,D/CC/K Serving trademark pizza (square, thin crust), Italian dishes, and subs
Pachanga Grill 8395 Piney Orchard Pkwy., Crofton 410-551-9318 Food 18/Atmos 14/Service 18/Range $3–9 L,D/CC/K Generous portions of fresh, authentic Mexican favorites
Sly Horse Tavern Village Green, Crofton 410-721-4550 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $18–33 L,D/CC Elegant seafood, steaks, veal, and chicken dishes in a colonial tavern setting
Kent Island/Eastern Shore
Annie’s Paramount Steak House 500 N. Kent Narrows Way, Grasonville 410-827-7103 Food 18/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $19–31 L,D/CC/K Fine American-Mediterranean seafood and beef dishes; waterfront
Fisherman’s Inn and Crab Deck Rte. 50, Grasonville 410-827-8807 Food 19/Atmos 20/Service 19/Range $15–29 L,D/CC/K Crabs, seafood and much more served on the waterfront
Harris Crab House 433 Kent Narrows Way N., Grasonville 410-827-9500 Food 18/Atmos 17/Service 18/Range $13–24 L,D/CC/K Seafood meals and hard-shell crabs served on the waterfront
Hemingway’s Bay Bridge Marina, Stevensville 410-643-2722 Food 19/Atmos 19/Service 18/Range $15–28 L,D/CC/K Seafood, steaks, and pasta served in a waterfront setting
Julia’s 122 N. Commerce St., Centreville 410-758-0471 Food 20/Atmos 18/Service 19/Range $25–29 L,D/CC/K Contemporary American cuisine “The crab cake sandwich was out of this world.”—Nikki Schieke
Kentmoor Restaurant 910 Kentmoor Rd., Stevensville 410-643-2263 Food 18/Atmos 18/Service 17/Range $10–26 L,D/CC/K Local favorite for surf ‘n’ turf, ribs, pasta, and more, on the water
The Narrows 3023 Kent Narrows Way S., Grasonville 410-827-8113 Food 20/Atmos 19/Service 19/Range $20–30 L,D,SB/CC/K Waterfront views and fine dining
By Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach®
Consider throwing a wine tasting party. It is easier than you think, not to mention fun! Your guests can learn more about wine and each other. Take turns hosting tastings each month. There's no better way to sip, savor, and socialize!
Pick a party theme. Try wines from specific countries (Spanish wines), certain grape varietals (Chardonnay or Petit Syrah), a price range (under $20), or perhaps unusual labels—be creative! Looking for inspiration? Search the Internet to see what wine professionals are doing; try www.localwineevents.com. Don't forget to ask the salesperson at your local wine store. He or she might have great ideas too.
Choose a format. Try a sit-down tasting with each person tasting wines side by side or one by one (the only constraint here may be the number of glasses you have combined with the number of friends you invite). Catering companies often rent wine glasses for reasonable rates. Try a blind tasting, where everyone tastes a series of wines without knowing what they are drinking, by covering the bottles with bags or aluminum foil. This is a great way to focus on the wine without preconceived notions.
Invite friends. Sending i nvitations can be as easy as sending e-mail or using an online invitation service (www.Evite.com) or try hand-writing beautiful invitations. Tell everyone the theme and ask that guests bring an appropriate bottle. Remember to make sure you have adequate room and glassware for your guests. Eight to twelve people is an optimal size for a home wine tasting party—enough people to be interesting, yet still manageable. Wine tasting parties are great places to make new friends. A great old proverb says “Over a bottle of wine many a friend is made.” You are guaranteed to see this the night of your tasting!
Taste the wine. Have water and bread or crackers available for palate cleansing between tastings. Pour about an ounce or two of wine in the glasses (1 ounce is approximately the width of one finger). Guests may not finish the entire sample, so have pitchers or empty ice buckets to hold the discarded wine. Provide tasting sheets on which your guests can list the wine and their observations and score the wines in the order of their preference. Be sure to give folks enough time to taste and discuss each sample before moving to the next wine. You'll quickly find that people have different opinions about the same wine. Once everyone tastes the wines, announce (or unveil) the winners and losers!
Think about food pairings. An easy way to handle the food issue is to ask guests to bring a light dish or appetizer, such as cheeses, olives, and meats including salami and pepperoni. This way there is enough variety of foods to test with different wines. To see how the various foods go with each wine make what I call a “wine sandwich.” Take a sip of the wine alone. Next, take a bite of food followed by a second sip of the same wine. The second sip will demonstrate the effect the food had on the wine. It's a tasty method for learning which pairings work and which do not.
Try using these French reds from 2003 for your next wine tasting party:
Clos la Coutale Cahors
Made mostly from Malbec, the red wines of Cahors are known as “the black wines” for their inky colors. While Malbec plays a minor role in the neighboring Bordeaux region, it takes center stage in Cahors, as well as in Argentina . Flavors of black cherry, blackberry, licorice, and a touch of pepper dominate this medium-bodied red with velvety tannins.
Retail: $10
Domaine Alary “Le Font d'Estevenas” Cairanne Côtes du Rhône Villages
Only sixteen of the best villages in the southern Rhône Valley are allowed to add their names to the Côtes du Rhône Villages wines. One sip of this Cairanne and you'll know this is more than your basic Côtes du Rhône. A blend of mostly Syrah (60%) and Grenache (40%), this fuller-bodied red has firm tannins with flavors of cherries, earth, and—if you can believe it—toasted marshmallows!
Retail: $20
Sanctus St. Emilion
If you want to be the hit of the party, bring this wine! A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this modern-styled Bordeaux appeals to red-wine drinkers who enjoy big wines. The firm tannins will benefit from decanting and will be offset by flavors of blackberries, herbs, and coffee. Organize a blind tasting of reds under $20 and then throw this in as a ringer! Buy a few extra bottles, since this will age nicely for 10–15 years or more.
Retail: $40
Professional wine coach Laurie Forster studied with the American Sommelier Association in Manhattan and earned a certificate in viticulture and vinification. Ms. Forster now works with private and corporate clients to create events and tours that demystify wine one glass at a time. For more information on Ms. Forster visit www.thewinecoach.com.
2020 Chesapeake Harbor Drive East Annapolis, Maryland 21403 (410) 263-3600 www.samsonthewaterfront.com
An early spring evening, moonlight reflected off the waters of Back Creek—a perfect Saturday night for a secluded dinner date. The place—Sam's on the Waterfront, tucked away inside Chesapeake Harbour Marina, off Edgewood Road in Annapolis. Sam's offers the charms of a water view restaurant, easy parking, and elegant but relaxed atmosphere.
Arrive after 7 p.m. and a jazz ensemble is playing beside the bar. In case you'd prefer to sit at the bar and graze, there's a menu of “bar fare.” Step into the main restaurant, after being greeted by the maître d', and you are led across thick gray carpet into a soothing setting of soft-hued furniture and large glass windows looking out onto the water. The building is constructed on pilings and set over the water, so go back during the day, for Sunday brunch or for lunch, and see the view in daylight.
The menu changes with the season. Some of the entrée selections available on our visit were rack of venison served with lentils, an herb-crusted wild salmon, veal saltimbocca, and steak Diane. Entrée prices range from $20 to $50, while appetizers and salads range from $8 to $16.
Have you ever had the fantasy of having the chef cook a special dish just for you? Well, chef Ahmed Koroma, hailing from Sierra Leone and trained in France, offers you that fantasy at Sam's.
My husband, Peter, and I took so long deliberating on what to order—there were so many tempting choices—that our server, Michael, pointed out that there is an option on the bottom of the menu: to order a three-, four-, or five-course meal created specially for you, based on the chef's inspiration. You can ask for seafood or meat, but otherwise what arrives is a surprise.
I was feeling daring after drinking half my cosmopolitan. Peter was drinking Backfin pale ale, one of two local beers available on draft. Sam's has a separate martini menu. It offers an array of martinis, from the French martini made with Grey Goose vodka, Grand Marnier, and Chambord, through the white grape and the dirty to the cosmopolitan, made with Absolute Citron vodka, Cointreau, a hint of cranberry, and a twist of lemon. The specialty martini drinks range in price from $7.50 to $9.50. The wine list is extensive, representing vintages from a variety of countries. And if you order the multicourse chef's meal you have the option of having each course paired with a wine selection.
A three-course chef's selection is $56, plus an additional $18 if you opt for wine. The four-course is $69 plus $22 for wine, and the five-course is $79 plus $25 for wine.
The one catch of ordering the special meal is that you have to order for the table. Thus you and your companions dine on the same fare, no chance to sample other dishes, and the result is akin to attending a very elegant dinner party. Nevertheless, we were up for a surprise so we said, “Let's go for it.”
First to arrive was crab Louis. Delicate leaves of Boston lettuce, scrumptiously ripe avocado, croutons, cucumbers, and red onions in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing were topped with a large mound of backfin crabmeat. I was impressed. My meal could have easily concluded at this juncture, but there was much more to come.
Next to arrive was shrimp and scallop Napoleon. Jumbo shrimp and scallops were skewered and served beneath a seafood Newburg sauce topped with a sprinkling of corn and peas and crowned with a bit of crisped potato. Also on the plate was eggplant parmigiana. This was a colorful dish appropriately named for the flamboyant, feisty nineteenth century emperor of France.
And as the grand finale, arriving still flaming, was baked Alaska—a huge mountain of strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate ice cream covered in meringue and topped by a lemon shortbread cookie.
The wonderful jazz music playing made us want to get up and dance, but unfortunately there is no dance floor, so we opted for a walk to burn off all those calories.
Sam's Waterfront has a very extensive Web site you can visit to find out about the current menu, scheduled entertainment, and specials: www.samsonthewaterfront.com. Open Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday, 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. The bar and lounge are open late.
--Nadja Maril
What's the Dish?
410 Severn Avenue Annapolis , MD 21403 (410) 263-8102 www.carrolscreek.com
Chocolate indulgence. Is there any more satisfying and “sinful” experience to satisfy sweet cravings? Carrol's Creek Café's longtime, esteemed chef, Warren McClain, shares with us what is easily the waterfront restaurant's most popular dessert—flourless chocolate cake, garnished with raspberry puree, macadamia nuts, and vanilla ice cream and filled with white chocolate ganache. The dessert is a heavenly representation of simple elegance and rich flavor.
In the realm of cakes, flour is as essential an ingredient to most recipes as sugar is to sweet. Yet the culinary evolution of cakes has yielded some very interesting recipes for equally satisfying cakes with and without this staple ingredient.
Keep in mind that there are hundreds of thousands of cake recipes, many of which are variations of one another. From angel food and cheesecake to Mississippi mud pie and Victorian sandwich cakes—even the common birthday cake—there is a gamut of cake concoctions developed over thousands of years (really!) in cultures the world over—all of which contributed to the cake recipes we know and love today.
Evidence of the earliest examples of cakes date back to Neolithic villages (think stone age and the start of farming and domestication), where archaeologists have discovered simple cakes. These were made from crushed grains, moistened, compacted, and likely cooked on a hot stone. Thousands of years passed and the Egyptians emerged as the first civilization to adopt baking as an art with developed baking methods. Recipes for simple breads sweetened with honey abounded in ancient Egypt . The Greeks had their own version of flatbreads sweetened with honey and nuts, but it wasn't until the Roman period that advanced bread and cake recipes developed. They included such processes as leavening with yeast and incorporating ingredients such as butter; cream; eggs; and sweeteners, such as raisins, spices, honey, and sugar.
By the seventeenth century cake making in Europe loosely resembled cake making as we know it today—largely because of technological advances, including more reliable ovens, cake molds, and the availability of ingredients, especially refined sugar. In the eighteenth century yeast had fallen out of favor as a leavening agent and was often replaced by whipped egg whites—a precursor to the flourless cake? By the nineteenth century cake making in Europe and the United States very closely resembled that of today.
But in almost all cases throughout history, grains were the all-important ingredient in bread and cake making. Pinpointing the roots of the flourless cake is a bit difficult, but its origins can be traced to a traditional French recipe that uses lots of eggs to achieve the likeness of a conventional cake—the eggs not only provide richness, they provide the cake's structure. A familiar cousin of the flourless cake is the soufflé, which commonly uses a base of cream or puree for flavor and whipped egg whites for “lift.”
In McClain's recipe, no ingredient replaces flour per se. Rather, the combination of chocolate, butter, and whipped egg whites results in dense cake with concentrated flavor—suitably served in smaller portions than normal cake.
McClain has been head chef at Carrol's Creek Café since 1992. Previously, he was the dining chef at Loews Annapolis Hotel and the executive sous chef at the Rodman Plaza in Richmond , Virginia , after a stint in Pittsburgh . His flourless chocolate cake is an original, “. . . it's a recipe we developed and put on the menu about 7 or 8 years ago,” he says. “It is, by far, our number-one requested recipe. That goes for all dishes, soups to entrées to desserts. Bon Appetit even requested this recipe.”
Of note, McClain uses chocolate pistoles (both semisweet and white) in this recipe. Pistoles are half-inch, round, flat wafers or disks of chocolate, which save you from having to chop large bars or chunks of chocolate into small pieces. Pistoles can be melted easily, just like chopped chocolate, in a double boiler or by mixing heated ingredients into them. Pistoles are available at specialty markets such as Trader Joe's and select supermarkets.
Equipment needed to make this recipe includes a double boiler for melting chocolate, an electric mixer for whipping egg whites, a muffin pan, a blender for pureeing, and, preferably, a device for measuring liquid ounces. “[The recipe] is a little tricky to make at home, but it can be done,” says McClain.
The cake takes about 35–45 minutes of preparation, but the cake, puree, and ganache can be prepared up to 1 day ahead of time, so that 5 minutes is all you need to finish making the dessert at, for example, a dinner party. General manager Richard McClure, who has been with Carrol's Creek Café since 1985, recommends pairing the cake with Bonny Doon Vineyards' (Santa Cruz, CA) Framboise, a raspberry dessert wine with grape spirits added, or a similar raspberry dessert wine. With a fresh raspberry puree to dip each bite into, touches of macadamia, a creamy white chocolate ganache filling, and an ice cream accompaniment, it's no wonder McClain's flourless chocolate cake is also Carrol's Creek Café's top-selling dessert.
—James Houck
1 lb. semisweet chocolate pistoles
7 ounces (14 tablespoons) chopped unsalted butter
8 ounces egg whites
6 ounces egg yolks
4 ounces sugar
In a medium metal mixing bowl, combine the chocolate and butter and place over a pot of boiling water (mocking a double boiler) on low heat. Stir frequently until all of the chocolate and butter have melted, remove bowl from heat, and set aside.
Using an electric mixer, whip the egg whites and sugar on medium until soft peaks are formed, then set aside.
Pour the egg yolks into the chocolate and butter mixture and stir until well incorporated. Fold this into the whipped egg whites until a consistent color is achieved . Pour into lightly greased muffin pans, sprayed with nonstick vegetable spray, and bake at 250 ° for approximately 30 minutes. Cakes will be firm to the touch when done.
Once cakes have completely cooled remove them from the pan, scoop out about 1 ounce of the center of the cake, and fill with white chocolate ganache. Invert onto a plate and microwave for 30 seconds. Garnish with toasted macadamia nuts, vanilla ice cream, and raspberry puree.
Puree fresh raspberries in a blender, add sugar until desired level of sweetness is achieved, strain, and serve.
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces white chocolate pistoles
1 ounce unsalted butter
Place white chocolate and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Heat heavy cream on medium heat and bring to a boil. Pour the cream over the chocolate and butter and stir until all of the chocolate is melted. Transfer mixture to a shallow pan and refrigerate.
Makes approximately seven 4-ounce cakes.
