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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

CC-BY-SA-3.0/Flickr/ruocaled

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

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/avlxyz