Caruso’s Grocery 🍝🇮🇹

Okay, so I have to tell you all about my recent visit to Caruso's Grocery at their Pike & Rose location in Maryland. If you're anywhere near DC or MD and craving authentic Italian, this place is an absolute must-try! I'd seen it pop up on my feed and finally decided to give it a go, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. From the moment you step in, there's such a warm, inviting vibe. The decor feels classic and cozy, with wooden tables and that lovely dim lighting that just sets the mood perfectly for a relaxed dinner. They even had little candles on the tables, which I always appreciate – it adds such a nice touch. Also, a small detail I loved was the bread basket with olive oil and balsamic vinegar – simple but so good while waiting for our food. I noticed the menu itself looked so charming, with an old-fashioned illustration that just made me smile before I even looked at the food! Now, onto the star of the show: the food! My friend and I started with the fried calamari, and honestly, it was some of the best I've had. Perfectly crispy, not at all greasy, and served with a zesty lemon wedge, marinara, and a creamy white dipping sauce that was just divine. It was the perfect appetizer to get our taste buds ready. For the main course, we plunged into the pasta. The original post mentioned the pasta was '10/10,' and I fully second that! I went for the creamy pasta with mushrooms, and every bite was pure comfort. The sauce was rich and velvety, and the mushrooms were cooked to perfection. My friend had the spaghetti with red sauce, and it looked equally amazing – a classic done right, with a generous dollop of what looked like fresh ricotta or mozzarella on top. You can tell they use quality ingredients here; the flavors were just so fresh and vibrant. They also offer a variety of seafood options, so there's really something for everyone. If you're looking for dinner spots in the DC/MD area, especially if you're exploring #dcrestaurants or trying to find a great #dcfoodreview for #italianfood, Caruso's Grocery should be at the top of your list. It's fantastic for a casual weeknight meal or even a celebratory dinner. I even saw some queries about their menu, and while I didn't see a specific Valentine's Day menu when I was there, I bet they do special features for holidays – it's definitely worth checking their website or giving them a call if you're planning a special occasion. Their menu has a good range, from appetizers like the calamari to various pasta dishes and other Italian classics. Honestly, for anyone searching for 'Caruso's Grocery Pike & Rose' or 'olde tyme grocery menu' – you're in for a treat. It’s not just a meal; it’s a wonderful dining experience. I’m already planning my next visit to try even more from their delicious offerings!