Just because you can pronounce ‘gnocchi’ doesn’t mean you should attempt making it. This applies to simmering your own marinara, attempting homemade pasta, and thinking your kitchen rivals Ellicott City’s authentic Italian spots. Because, while you could dust off that old pasta maker, you’d be far better off reserving a table at any of these nine establishments. From family-run trattorias to modern enotecas, let these local gems do the cooking.
Pizza Boli’s
$ | (410) 750-3377 | WEBSITE
Pizza Boli’s makes the kind of gyro platters you probably can’t replicate at home. See this for yourself by ordering their must-try chicken platter or their top-notch chicken Parm sub for takeout. The welcoming staff serves up unmatched quality with delicious western fries and gravy fries that make it a go-to spot for tasty meals.
Ledo Pizza Ellicott City, MD
$ | (410) 750-7087 | WEBSITE
Ledo Pizza in Ellicott City is serving its beloved menu of classic pies and specialties—like the 18” meatball, pre-cooked bacon, and hamburger pizza with the original-recipe tomato sauce—for dine-in and takeout daily from late morning through evening. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with cold Michelob Ultra on tap to complement the hearty, satisfying food. Service is consistently pleasant and attentive, with staff who genuinely care, even following up on forgotten items.
It’s a spot where pizza lovers keep coming back for the delicious, reliable offerings and the overall enjoyable experience.
Stella Notte
$$ | (410) 461-1122 | WEBSITE
When you visit Stella Notte, your evening might feature the Wednesday half-price pizza special with fresh basil or the reliably moist chicken tenders. This is clearly a casual Italian spot, but it’s ideal for when you want a relaxed date night or a straightforward meal with friends.
Vocelli Pizza
$ | (410) 313-8774 | WEBSITE
The next time a pizza-versus-pasta delivery debate begins to feel unproductive, check out Vocelli Pizza in Ellicott City. Order a thin-crust pie, like the one with pepperoni, as well as some Pepperoni Garlic Rolls.
Facci Ristorante of Turf Valley
$$ | (410) 750-0001 | WEBSITE
Facci Ristorante in Turf Valley is from the same hospitality group as some of the city’s more formal Italian spots, but, while those can feel stuffy and require reservations weeks in advance, Facci is perfect for a relaxed weeknight dinner. Both the dining room and patio seating accommodate large groups comfortably, and most of the pasta entrees come in under $25.
Order the ravioli d’agosto with lobster, asparagus, and crab, a classic chicken Parmesan, or a hearty plate of lasagna any evening they’re open. The saffron sauce on the pasta is a standout, and the spicy Marinara sauce definitely brings the heat. For dessert, the hazelnut and pistachio Gelato is a must, and you can pair it with a Figgy Peach cocktail.
Server Kory provides the kind of friendly, attentive service that makes you want to come back, whether you’re trying the praised Spaghetti Amatriciana Con Burrata or the Pappardelle Bolognese.
Squisito Pizza and Pasta – Ellicott City
$ | (410) 461-3147 | WEBSITE
To make your family dinner nights less predictable, you could rotate through every streaming service’s algorithm, or you could head to Squisito Pizza and Pasta in Ellicott City. From opening until closing, you can get generous pasta portions like chicken parmesan or fettuccine Alfredo—and, for those craving pizza, you can grab a whole pie or a single slice for dine-in or takeout.
The garlic knots are usually very good, though lately they’ve been a bit oily and burnt, but the salad is reliably delicious. The young man at the register and the rest of the staff are friendly and work hard, making the clean, welcoming space feel like a nice family place. While the soda machine might occasionally be out of order, the restaurant’s strengths are its standout staff and good quality meals at reasonable prices.
They also offer special deals on Mondays and Tuesdays, making Squisito a clean, friendly, and affordable spot worth adding to your dining rotation.
Trattoria Amore
$ | (410) 740-9903 | WEBSITE
Whether you want to enjoy classic red sauce Italian cuisine, grab a lunch special, order tortellini tricolor for a casual date night, or watch soccer matches with a reasonably priced wine selection, this Ellicott City gem has you covered. Stop by for a cozy and welcoming meal with friendly staff who make you feel like part of the family.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
$$ | (410) 461-5200 | WEBSITE
Most memorable meals require special occasions, but it’s not the occasion that makes them memorable. Carrabba’s Italian Grill proves this with its consistently top-quality food—like their excellent catering and drinks—that can make any day feel special. If you want to bring that lovely ambiance home, they also offer thoughtful touches like flowers and gift cards for just $15-$25.
Roma’s Pizza & Subs
$ | (410) 418-8555 | WEBSITE
If you’re ordering from Roma’s Pizza & Subs, you’re ordering a cheese steak sub. It’s the star of the menu here. Get the cheese steak sub special with its consistent quality and great service, or order one of their other subs for delivery in the area. The owners are also praised for their honesty and integrity, going above and beyond to return a lost wallet with all its contents. Stop by Roma’s for not just great food, but also exceptional hospitality and service.