Spending time in Little Italy? All of its most popular local businesses are restaurants, but they're far from identical.
Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top spots, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results.
1. Joe Benny's
Topping the list is Joe Benny's, which serves Sicilian-style pizza, focaccia paninis and meatballs. The combination of its popularity, full bar and small size means there's usually a wait, and there are no reservations accepted. Located at 313 S. High St., it's the highest rated business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 551 reviews on Yelp.
Yelper Rob A. wrote, "Crazy good meatballs and the focaccia pizza is delicious. Very friendly staff and it has a great neighborhood feel. One of my favorite places in Baltimore."
2. Isabella's Brick Oven Pizza and Panini
Next up is Isabella's Brick Oven Pizza and Panini, situated at 221 S. High St. Subs are given equal or greater billing with pizza on the menu at this Italian spot, and both are brought to life in the brick oven. Homemade bread and cheese contribute to the success of Isabella's. It's even smaller than Joe Benny's, though, so plan accordingly. With 4.5 stars out of 445 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite.
3. Amicci's
Another top choice is Amicci's. A broader menu here means you'll find classic Italian entrees, like chicken cacciatore, tortellini and veal parmigiana, alongside seafood and baked items like lasagna. Vegetarians have their own corner of the menu (eggplant parmigiana, veggie gnocchi, etc.), and all can choose from the wine and cocktail menus. Yelpers give the business, located at 231 S. High St., four stars out of 477 reviews.
4. La Tavola
La Tavola, is another neighborhood go-to, with four stars out of 410 Yelp reviews. The Venice-born chef brings a contemporary approach to classic Italian cooking. For example, he infuses spaghetti with squid ink, then mixes in fresh crab meat, spinach, cherry tomatoes and finishes it with a garlic white wine sauce. Or consider linguini mixed with Taleggio cheese, sauteed pioppini mushrooms, cured speck and fresh ground truffles. Pasta is made in-house, including a gluten-free option. Head over to 248 Albemarle St. to see for yourself.
5. La Scala
Finally, check out La Scala, which has earned four stars out of 365 reviews on Yelp. This upscale Italian restaurant serves traditional, homestyle food. That means lots of pasta dishes, as well as free-range chicken, filet mignon, veal and seafood entrees. Go light with a Caprese or house salad and try one of many antipasti, like steamed mussels, fried squid or artichoke hearts. There is also an entire menu focused on cheese and salami. You can check it out at 1012 Eastern Ave.
