Allison’s Restaurant 2207 Defense Highway Crofton, MD 21114 (410) 721-0331 By Gilles and Kathy Syglowski
How refreshing! Among all of our adventures in dining, this is one for the books. Not just for the food or the good service, compliments of Jeff, our waiter, but for the entire package. Our party of five looked forward to celebrating our dear friend Cathy’s birthday. Has and Kate were with us, and everyone was rewarded with an excellent experience.
Fondly remembered as Luciano’s for a very long time, Allison’s opened 7 months ago. Jim (chef) and Chonas Hamrock, Crofton residents for 12 years, along with brother Bill Hamrock, who owns Portobello Restaurant in Arlington, Virginia, have done a wonderful job transforming the restaurant. Collectively, they have more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality business.
When we first walked in and looked around we felt right at home. Simple, modern, and clean was our first impression. A modest dining room to the right and an attractive bar to the left were well balanced, with cherry colored furniture and an airy ambiance that was lightly decorated and made us feel open-arm welcomed.
Menus were handed out and before dinner drinks were ordered, water was poured. We enjoyed a moment of conversation before actually looking at the menu. Then . . . after a quick peek at the menu, everyone knew what to get! The menu is so well designed, articulate, simple, and appetizing that our decisions came easily.
We shared three appetizers. A crispy, fresh Caesar salad proved itself true to form—not too many croutons, a little bit of Parmesan cheese, and gently coated. The fried calamari platter was delicious—tender, gently fried, and served with a sweet chili sauce, which was an enjoyable departure from marinara. And the clams casino were simply scrumptious.
After this great start, Kathy left on her plate only the tails of her shrimp Provencal, which boasted about ten shrimp nicely sautéed in garlic, tomatoes, and artichoke hearts, all in a white wine sauce. The birthday girl had her favorite: a hickory smoked grilled New York strip steak, cooked perfectly as ordered and lightly smoked. Kate went for the vegetarian lasagna, which, according to her, was absolutely delicious—an above-average vegetarian dish. Has stuck with his favorite, the crab cakes accompanied by an Old Bay remoulade that enhanced the overall flavor quite well. Gilles chose the veal T-bone laced with a mustard cream sauce beside a bed of whipped potatoes. The dish was exceptional—tasty, juicy, and tender. The wine list is not pretentious and features good variation—something for everybody—and the Wente Cabernet was quite impressive.
After our main dishes, dinner continued to get more interesting. We sang “Happy Birthday” to Cathy over very original berry shortcake, and before we finished, all the other patrons were singing with us—testimony to the Hamrocks’ success in creating this comfortable, casual atmosphere!
The shortcake was not really a cake: it was shortbread atop marinated berries. The crème brulee was prepared as it should be: tasty and creamy. And the ice cream sundae was delicious.
The experience averaged about $25 per person (appetizer, entree, and dessert). The entrees we enjoyed ranged in price from $12.95 to $21. Allison’s also offers carryout with the same menu and revolves daily dinner specials and happy hour special drinks.
It was a very nice evening and refreshing in that when you go out to dinner nothing beats good food, at the right price, in a comfortable place, and with good friends. Well done, Chonas, Jim, and Bill! The spirit of casual atmosphere paired with fine dining stands out.
Gilles Syglowski is a chef, culinary instructor, and food service consultant. He is a graduate of the Lycee d’Enseignement Professional Hotelier in Metz, France. He and his wife, Kathy, a member of the International Wine Society, have more than 50 years’ experience in the restaurant industry.
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
Comfort food, perfect during winter hibernation, is what A Cook’s Café owner Craig Sewell had in mind when deciding what recipe he wanted to share with us this month—his version of cream of tomato soup. While you might find the dish common in name, it is anything but common in taste in Sewell’s recipe.
First, a little bit of history. The history of the tomato—and that of soup—are almost as old as cooking itself. Believed to be native to the Americas, the tomato has been cultivated since the time of the Aztecs (700 A.D.) in what is present-day Mexico City. It is presumed that a short time after the sixteenth-century Spanish explorer Cortez conquered the Aztecs, tomato seeds made their way across the Atlantic to Europe. The tomato was accepted in the kitchens of southern Europe but not so much in the north, because it closely resembles the poisonous wolf peach (common in Britain). In America, the tomato did not become a kitchen staple until just before the Civil War era. When and how tomatoes worked their way into soups is almost anyone’s guess, but the act of combining various ingredients in a large pot to create a nutritious, filling, easily digested food, simple to make and serve, was inevitable. Soup was the perfect choice for both stationary and traveling cultures, rich and poor, healthy people and invalids. Soup (and stews, pottages, porridges, gruels, etc.) evolved according to local ingredients and tastes. Did the Aztecs first concoct a tomato soup? Was it the Italians? Or perhaps American families that quartered Civil War troops, having to feed large groups of hungry soldiers? We may never know. However, the first Fanny Farmer Cookbook, which appeared in the late 1890s, included recipes for tomato soups, salads, and sauces. And in 1897, the Campbell Soup Company revolutionized the canned food industry by condensing tomato soup. By reducing water in the tin, storage and shipping costs were reduced. Thus was born condensed tomato soup, which would eventually be immortalized by artist Andy Warhol in his famous series of Campbell’s soup can paintings.
Sewell’s recipe is a far cry from the Campbell’s staple, but is a popular and easy recipe to prepare, especially when he introduces the basic cooking concepts to his evening cooking classes. Open for 5 years, A Cook’s Café is home to the Chesapeake School of Cooking, one of three arms of the business for which the café is popular. The classes emphasize hands-on cooking techniques in small-group instruction for home gourmet chefs-to-be. The café also concocts delicious breakfast items and designer sandwiches for hungry customers craving something a little special, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m. In addition to teaching cooking and cooking daily for you, A Cook’s Café is available to cater your special event, with an emphasis on customized menus. Sewell consults with his clients so he can assess their wishes and strategize menus.
Sewell learned his kitchen craft under the tutelage of a gold medal–winning chef at a four-star restaurant in Seattle. “I graduated from Harvard with a degree in economics in 1973. I got out of college and traveled a lot, ended up in Seattle, and ended up working for the chef,” Sewell says. For 9 years he honed his skills before pursuing another career.
Today, Sewell attributes his success in the culinary field to his unique combination of services and special attention to his customers. “We build long-lasting relationships with our customers,” he says. “Because we do several different things out of here, we service our clients in a number of different ways. Probably the simplest way is providing them with breakfast and lunch every day, where they want quality food prepared in a reasonable time and a variety of foods.”
The cream of tomato soup is an excellent example of quality food, reasonably prepared. In this unique soup, a velouté sauce (stock and roux) acts as the faux “cream,” offering delicate texture to a well-balanced recipe that calls for a variety of ingredients common in your local grocery store. Sewell says, “One promise I make to everyone [I teach] here is that I won’t prepare anything that uses either hardware or ingredients that aren’t readily available. It makes no sense to teach people how to do something with esoteric ingredients that they can only order from some specialty place. This particular recipe does have some things in it that I believe every home kitchen should have and utilize, one of which is a China cap, which is a very large-type sieve. The second is an immersible blender, which in this case we obviously use for soups. And what I try to do is break people’s habits of using the little cans of tomato paste that they grew up on—that are overly bitter, overly sugared, and just terrible—in favor of using an Italian tomato paste that can be found in almost any grocery store. It is very sweet and very tomato-like.”
--James Houck
Cream of Tomato Soup
Preheat oven to 350°. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Spread whole tomatoes in a single layer on the foil if using canned (reserve the juice). If using fresh tomatoes, quarter them before spreading them on the foil. Sprinkle tomatoes evenly with brown sugar. Bake until tomatoes begin to caramelize, about 30 minutes. Let the tomatoes cool slightly.
Heat butter over medium heat until foaming. Add the shallots, tomato paste, and allspice. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until shallots are softened (about 10 minutes). Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until thoroughly combined (making a roux). Gradually add chicken stock and stir in reserved tomato juice and the roasted tomatoes. Cover and heat to low simmer until thickened (soup will only thicken when very hot).
Blend mixture with an immersible blender, and then strain through a China cap or double mesh strainer. Dispose of pulp. Stir in sherry and cayenne pepper to taste.
Sometimes a good way to get a “taste” of a new establishment is to visit for lunch. Kyma, the new contemporary Greek and Spanish restaurant in the midst of the outer West Street shopping district, is no exception. The lunch menu offers many of the Greek mezzes and Spanish tapas that enable you to try small plates of specialties. It also has sandwiches, salads, and entrees—all without worrying about making an advance reservation to dine at this contemporary-style upscale restaurant.
Open for lunch Monday through Friday, from 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m., it hosts a crowd of mostly professionals. The undulating music playing in the background and the cool colors of blue tiles and a blue fabric painting hanging on the wall gave me the sensation of being transported to a private club in Greece or Spain, and I enjoyed the fantasy. Service is very attentive, as a team of waiters and bus persons take your order and bring beverages and condiments quickly and efficiently. On the midweek afternoon I visited for lunch I was pleased to see two combination plates, one Greek and one Spanish, that offered a sampling of soup, salad, and sandwich, enabling a friend and me to sample some of Kyma’s specialties but not be too stuffed to return to work. The Greek lunch ($11) includes fassaulado, tomato bean soup, half of a chicken pita, hummus, feta cheese, eggplant salad, lettuce, and tomato. The Spanish lunch ($11) consists of gazpacho, Valencia salad, and a toasted half sandwich of Serrano ham, mozzarella, and heirloom tomatoes on rustic bread. To start, we shared a small plate of tender fried calamari served with aioli and brava sauce—light and tasty.
The gazpacho was delicious, perfectly blended with just the right amount of garlic and spices, and the Valencia salad, with its orange segments and arugula, was refreshing. My friend enjoyed the blending of flavors in her Greek lunch as she savored her hummus, feta, chicken, and eggplant salad. We felt obliged to sample two desserts, the traditional Spanish flan ($5), fragrant and soothing, and the baklava ($5.50), a flaky pastry filled with plump raisins and nuts. Accompanied by French press coffee, they proved to be a fine finish to a pleasing meal.
During the evening hours Kyma takes on a dressier persona. Most evenings as I walk by looking through the extensive front glass doors that lift up to provide an open café in warm weather, the downstairs area is filled with customers enjoying the atmosphere, food, and drink. There is also an upstairs dining and lounge area.
Wine is available in taste size portions, starting at $3, as well as by the glass or bottle. There are two cheese assortments, Spanish and Mediterranean, for $8.75 that make a fine accompaniment to a wine-tasting gathering and can be shared by two or three people. Specialty cocktails range in price from $8–12. Dinner entrees at Kyma include grilled lamb loin served with roasted vegetables and rosemary sauce and Santorini shrimp, jumbo Maya shrimp, tomato confit, capers, and barrel-aged feta (both $19). Paella is available Sunday through Thursday, $45–49, but allow 40 minutes’ preparation time. Executive Chef Jose Picazo recommends several tapas and mezza specials, Spanish and Greek-style small plates on the dinner menu, including rabbit stew, crab-stuffed piquillo peppers, and marinated pork loin. Other small plate choices include Greek meatballs, rockfish, and duck confit, as well as Greek-style pizzas called pides. Small plate prices start at $2.75 and go up to $9.75, with most falling in the $6 and $7 range.
The lounge is open for drinks 3 p.m. until midnight Sunday–Thursday and until 1:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Dinner is served 5–10 p.m. Sunday–Thursday and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. —Nadja Maril
Many longtime Annapolis residents remember the Burger King in Downtown, Annapolis on the corner of Main and Conduit Sts., which was successively replaced by a steakhouse and then a Chinese restaurant. Now in its place is a restaurant that seems a natural and successful fit by serving Mediterranean Italian cuisine in an upscale, contemporary room. Osteria 177 is the newest addition to an Annapolis dining scene, which seems more now than ever before to have adopted the trendy yet fine dining culture of its big city brethren. Inside Osteria 177, you’ll be impressed with the restaurant’s ambiance: rich wood walls, on which hangs contemporary artwork, a mix of earthy tile flooring and deep blue carpeting, nicely appointed hip tables and chairs, and romantic lighting.
The service is impeccable. The bread is brought to your table still hot, nestled inside a linen napkin within the breadbasket. Daily specials and an extensive menu offer a rich selection of dishes that capture the essence of coastal Italian cuisine punctuated with unique ingredients. Chef Mauritizio Cotti from Milan, Italy, who has cooked in upscale restaurants in his native city, London, and Boston created the menu. The broad range of main courses include freshly made pastas, seasonal vegetables, seafood, poultry, and a variety of meat dishes, making Osteria 177 the kind of restaurant you'll want to visit more than once. Desserts cooked on the premises, fine wine and cocktails, and lovely appetizers also insure that Osteria 177 will be claiming the corner of Main and Conduit for many years to come.
Open for lunch Mon.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; dinner Mon.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 5-11 p.m., and Sun. 12-9 p.m.
Out of the Fire is a New American cuisine-style restaurant located in the historic district of Easton. Walking up to the door, you are not sure if you are entering a cozy café or a hip art gallery. Once inside, you realize it is the best of both. The café-style restaurant is warm and inviting, and the colorful walls are flanked with local artwork. Diners have the option of sitting around the open kitchen counter, at the wine bar or in the art-adorned dining room. Every table in the dining room has a full view of the stone hearth oven that is the focal point of Out of the Fire.
The menu offers a well-thought out selection of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts. Pizza is another item on the menu that gets special attention. There is nothing quite like pizza from a stone hearth oven, and Out of the Fire’s pizza is sublime. The wine list is impressive and offers something from every corner of the globe. Chef Justin Peregoy puts a Mediterranean spin on his dishes. As a result, everything tastes fresh. And, ordinary dishes like mac-n-cheese become extraordinary (try the Red Dragon Mac-n-Cheese). The menu boasts natural and organic ingredients, as well as local produce and herbs. Many of the Peregoy’s creations include naturally raised pork, beef and wild game. Don’t miss the Wild Boar Stew with cherries, currants, and juniper berries.
If you haven’t visited Out of the Fire, make sure you add it to your New Year’s list of restaurants to try—you won’t be disappointed.
Open for lunch Mon.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; dinner Mon.-Thurs., 5-9 p.m., and dinner Fri. & Sat., 5-10 p.m. Martinis and jazz offered on Thursday nights from 6-8 p.m.
