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Red Pearl Restaurant: Classic Chinese Cuisine

May 20, 2014 by

If you’re looking for delicious, authentic Chinese cuisine in a gorgeous, scenic setting, make a reservation at Columbia’s Red Pearl. Located on the banks of Lake Kittamaqundi on the Columbia waterfront, this restaurant has been wowing local foodies for years with a bevy of astounding dishes. The staff here knows how to make dishes that draw from both Cantonese and Mandarin traditions, and some favorites include the Mandarin shrimp, which comes in a remarkably robust and complex sauce, as well as the Peking duck. On weekends, go for traditional dim sum service, where the staff brings out appetizers on the little carts and you pick and choose depending on what looks good. Some hits on the dim sum service are the steamed pork buns, which are flavorful and juicy, as well as the steamed water chestnut cake, which is a must-try. Service is low-key and prices are fair.

Red Pearl Restaurant
10215 Wincopin Circle
Columbia, MD 21044
(410) 715-6530
http://www.yelp.com/biz/red-pearl-chinese-restaurant-columbia

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Bon Fresco Sandwich Bakery: A Popular Sandwich Shop

May 13, 2014 by

Stop being disappointed with your brown bag lunch and head over to Bon Fresco Sandwich Bakery. This Columbia sandwich shop is serving some of the best sandwiches in town. All the sandwiches come on fresh baked bread. You can see the bakers working hard making the bread when you go to the counter to order your sandwich.

The London Broil, piled high with beef, lettuce, red onion, mayo, and mustard, is one of the most popular sandwiches but regulars say you can't go wrong with any of the fresh creations. If you're feeling especially hungry get a side of the couscous or potato salad. Homemade soups, fresh baked breads, and pastries are also available.

Bon Fresco Sandwich Bakery does get busy during lunch, so arrive early to avoid a crowd.

Bon Fresco Sandwich Bakery
6945 Oakland Mills Road
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 290-3434

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Stanford Grill: Good Food Done Right

April 15, 2014 by

Sometimes you just want to eat classic American cuisine ably executed. If that’s the case, stop in at the Stanford Grill for hearty, satisfying food made with great ingredients and served in sizable portions. This local institution has earned raves from locals for its exceptional service as well, which is professional and courteous. But it’s really the food you’re visiting for, and some of the top dishes include the spectacular steaks – the prime rib is exceptional, as is the filet mignon. Other good selections are the rotisserie chicken, which is cooked slowly so it remains moist and delectable. The sides are also quite good, with the buttery mashed potatoes earning special raves and the macaroni and cheese being big enough to be a full meal. For dessert, don’t miss the bread pudding, which regulars rave about. Stanford Grill also hosts regular jazz brunches with live music that draw big crowds.

Stanford Grill
8900 Stanford Boulevard
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 312-0445
http://www.yelp.com/biz/stanford-grill-columbia

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Trattoria E Pizzeria: From The Crust Up

April 8, 2014 by

This casual Italian restaurant is regarded by locals as one of the best pizzerias in Howard County, for a number of reasons. The first and most important thing is their pizza crust, which is hand-tossed and fired to get to the perfect balance of chewy and crispy. The sauce is made with fresh tomatoes and has a great balance of sweetness and acidity without overwhelming the crust, and the range of toppings is very diverse. Regulars recommend that you keep your pizzas simple, however, with Italian sausage and broccoli both being favorites. The best thing about these pies, however, is how refreshingly light they are. At Trattoria E Pizzeria, the high-quality ingredients make for great pies. If you don’t feel like a slice, Trattoria E Pizzeria offers a variety of other dishes, from baked pastas to satisfying calzones.

Trattoria E Pizzeria
8630 Guilford Road
Columbia, MD 21046
(410) 381-1256
http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/31/352678/restaurant/Baltimore/Trattoria-E-Pizzeria-Columbia
http://www.yelp.com/biz/trattoria-e-pizzeria-da-enrico-columbia

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The Ale House Columbia: Tasty Comfort Fare

March 11, 2014 by

The Ale House Columbia is a great spot to enjoy a casual dinner, relax with friends over drinks, and watch the game on one of the 30 big screen TVs. With a spacious outdoor patio and three indoor bars, there is room for everyone. Start with a drink from the bar. Over 50 different types of beers are available, including local, global, and house brand beers. Cocktails and wine are also available. The menu is full of modern American fare like Burgers, Salads, Flatbreads, and Tacos. Indulge in some comfort food like the Mac & Cheese, Braised Short Ribs, and Honey Sriracha Wings. Check out the regularly held events like beer tastings, happy hour, and live music. Open for lunch and dinner every day.

The Ale House Columbia
6480 Dobbin Center Way
Columbia, MD 21045
(443) 546-3640
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-ale-house-columbia-columbia

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Cafe de Paris: Beloved French Cuisine in Columbia, Maryland

February 12, 2014 by

Columbia diners have long loved this delightful French restaurant, not only for the ambience but for the quality of the food and service. What other restaurant in the area has the owner walk diners to the door when they’re finished, inquiring about their meal? With that kind of attention to detail, you’re not going to be surprised to learn that the food is held in very high regard by regular diners.

Escargot, a French food specialty, is presented well here, paired with butter and garlic and cooked til tender. Order a cheese and bread plate to start, and sample the simple pleasures of French cuisine. The crepe bar, open only on Saturday afternoons, draws a number of diners to this Columbia restaurant. Regulars rave about the crème brulee, too.

As a side note, Café de Paris closes relatively early—9 p.m. on weekdays—so if you want to check it out, don’t wait. You might not be able to get a table if you arrive after 8!

Café de Paris
8808 Centre Park Drive
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 997-3904
www.cafedepariscolumbia.com

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Iron Bridge Wine Company: Raise A Glass

January 21, 2014 by

Located in a former biker bar, the Iron Bridge Wine Company has left behind its shady past and developed into one of the finest places to sample a variety of vintages in the area. A spectacular wine list is the best reason to visit—the servers are knowledgeable about what they have on offer, and it’s accessible for the casual drinker, with very well priced bottles. If your stomach is rumbling, Iron Bridge Wine Company offers a robust and exciting tapas menu, overflowing with delicious small plates that are perfect to pair with wine, in the classic Spanish tradition. Be warned: this place doesn’t skimp on flavor, and many of their dishes pack a serious punch of garlic and spice. Don’t miss the braised pork belly appetizer, an astounding package of succulent, crispy goodness. The sesame-seared tacos are also unforgettable.

Iron Bridge Wine Company
10435 Route 108
Columbia, MD 21044
(410) 997-3456
www.ironbridgewines.com

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Frisco Taphouse & Brewery: Craft Beer and Creative Food

January 14, 2014 by

Frisco Taphouse & Brewery is a beer lover's dream in Columbia. Just about everyone can find a beer to enjoy on the extensive list. Tons of beers are available on draft and even more in bottles. Fifty tap beers are available all the time. Some of the beers are made in house! Feel free to ask for a sample of a beer on draft you haven't tried before. The menu is a mix of bar food and entrees. Indulge in some nachos, wings, pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. Salads are also available. If you like your meal spicy try one of the fajita platters or burritos. Everything is reasonably priced and service is friendly. You can even check out the current beer list on your phone. Visit the website for more information. 

Frisco Taphouse & Brewery
6695 Dobbin Road
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 312-4907
http://www.yelp.com/biz/frisco-taphouse-and-brewery-columbia

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Restaurant Reviews Are On The Way…

November 8, 2013 by

Check back for full reviews of the best places to eat in your area. Thanks!

Filed Under: Restaurants
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