Gotta be a hidden gem in Baltimore for incredible atmosphere and food. The chocolate creme brûlée is probably one of the top 3 desserts I've ever had. I never order gnocchi either but this dish was incredible too. Highly recommend stopping if you can read more

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I have had two visits to Baltimore and each time we have eaten at Cafe Gia--and both times it has been delicious. With daughter living in Baltimore, we will have many more trips to Baltimore and Cafe Gia with be our home-away-from-home restaurant. Great food, wonderful staff, great ambience. read more

Homey restaurant in Little Italy with the best, most colorful and eclectic exterior and interior wall art. Lots of indoor seating available. Really enjoyed all the dishes but the vodka penne stood out to me. It had pieces of pork, fresh tomato, and peas mixed with al dente penne in a creamy but bright vodka sauce, making for a very savory and rich but not-too-heavy dish. Maybe the best vodka penne I've ever had! Service was quick and friendly. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Fritto Misto - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Love this place!! The staff was absolutely wonderful and the food was even better! It's a great, small Italian restaurant with unbelievable food for a good price! I went with my Mom when she was in town and we decided to split two dishes and a salad and we had plenty left over which worked great for lunch the next day! The restaurant is cute and small, filled with people. A great casual date destination. It's not particularly fancy, but instead provides more of an intimate family restaurant setting. We got the lasagna and one of the chicken dishes plus the beet salad. All were absolutely perfect and exceeded our expectations! Highly recommend!! read more

Food was decent but I had better in the area. As always, I hope this will help someone in making their decision. read more

We dined here on Friday night before a late movie in Harbor East. The restaurant is a smaller size but has plenty of seating and a really nice cozy vibe. Really beautiful decor gives it a very Italian feel. I read some other reviews about this and did find that the service was slow. We ended up skipping an after dinner cocktail because we had waited so long after our glasses of wine went empty for too long. I also tried the limoncello martini when we sat down and unfortunately did not enjoy it as much as I hoped. For $15 it tasted mostly like an inexpensive vodka with a little bit of lemon. The food was good, I tried the Casoncelli which had a really nice flavor, but I would have liked it to have a little more sauce. The linguini and meatballs had a nice homestyle feel like your grandmother had made it. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Linguini with Meatballs - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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A neat little place! Food was good and the service was too. I had Shrimp Alfredo. The shrimp were large, cooked very well and there were plenty of them. The alfredo sauce was a little light for my taste, I prefer a heavier alfredo sauce, but it was still good. Price was very reasonable. I'd go back! read more

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The BEST lasagna in my life! The homemade pasta melts in your mouth. If I am ever here again for my job, I will be visiting this restaurant.

A family owned Italian restaurant in Little Italy. Cute decor inside. Service to be seated and then orders taken were a bit slow but all very friendly staff. We were brought complimentary bread and butter. For drinks, I ordered an orange and basil spritzer that was refreshing. We shared their Burrata appetizer which we both thoroughly enjoyed. For my main entree, I got the Salmon alla Griglia while my friend got the branzino with risotto, a special for the night. The salmon was perfectly cooked and crispy. The spaghetti that came with the pomodoro sauce wasn't anything exciting but just your basic tomato based sauce. I did get to try my friend's dish which was delicious. It was a really good dining experience here. Gia even stopped by to take our main orders which was fun. read more

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We had a lovely dinner at Cafe Gia tonight! our server, Abdul, was very attentive. we had an excellent salad and our pasta entrees were wonderful! read more

Gia's was wonderful! We felt welcomed as soon as we entered. Food and service were excellent. There are a lot of restaurant choices in Baltimore; choose Gia's. read more

A touch of Italy on B'more's Little Italy! Outdoor dining, excellent service, and amazing food. The marina sauce is amazing! We look forward to returning soon! read more

Had a pleasant and delicious meal at Gia's with some girlfriends! Gia herself even closed out the place with us at the end of the night, we had such a warm conversation for such a cold, windy winter night! The service was super quick which was great because we were so hungry! Bruschetta was delish with capers!! The entrees were all so yummy and flavorful, I loved the eggplant. Lots of veggie friendly options! We also shared a bottle of wine. Overall, a great experience and a cute spot! read more

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I love the outdoor dining experience with the street lights and Italian flags. The waitress was super sweet & I was grateful they seated me close to closing. I love finding an Italian restaurant in the states that something similar to a true Carbonara. I added a meatball ‍ my Italian friends are shaking their heads at me. But hey, this is America. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Cacio al Pepe con una Meatball - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Can't thank the owner and staff at Cafe Gia enough for accommodating a party of 10 for a birthday. The service was top rate and the food was excellent! They also allowed is to store our birthday cupcakes at the restaurant while we were walking around Harbor East before dinner. Thank you Ms Gia and staff for a wonderful experience! read more

My colleague and I popped into this restaurant on a whim, as it was our last day in town. We are from south Louisiana and are not easily impressed by restaurants outside of our state. Cafe Gia blew us away! From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel welcome. They were very attentive and just downright nice! And the food!!! Y'all, it was amazing! I wish I could give it more stars. I don't know when I'll be back in Baltimore, but Cafe Gia will be my first stop when I arrive. read more

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The worst experience. The place looks artsy, however the food and service is the worst ever: food was cold, muscles sandy, pasta mushy and salad rotten. I asked to heat up the food, they did and brought back empty muscle shells. In addition, they charged me for the party ta next to me. It took the old owner women about 40 minutes to cancel wron charge. S went by and asked how was my food, I said it was terrible. She did not bother to discount or not charge me for that mess at all. I felt sick for 2 days. Strongly recommend to stay away from this place. read more

One of the best dining experiences that me and my fiance have had! Everything exceeded our expectations. Incredible.

I really wish Yelp could give 3.5 stars because that's exactly what Cafe Gia was. I was recommended it by a local because La Tavola was not opened. Upon first impressions it seemed cute outside, inside not as cute, it gave an older vibe to it and also had closer tables. We were seated fairly quickly, service was great. Our server was accommodating and I'll explain why in a moment with the ranking of everything we got. Started off with grilled Caesar salad 6/10: the lettuce was just really warm it threw me off even though I knew it was grilled (I've just had other grilled and it wasn't like this). The dressing itself was quite average but there wasn't enough. More than Meatballs 8/10: The sauce is really what made this pretty good, it was flavorful, hot (as in temp), and creamy. The meatballs itself were also average. *here's where I wish I could give it 3.5* Main course I initially got chicken alla Florentina 4/10: it almost tasted like ragú, chicken was slimy, and chicken was also not seasoned at all, like not even salt. HOWEVER, our server was kind enough to be understanding and allow us to order something different. We then chose Manicotti Al Forno 9/10: this was honestly really good, the sauce was creamy, it was super cheesy, it was super flavorful and fulfilling. Couldn't even get dessert after because I was so full from it. Overall it was a good experience but I wouldn't necessarily go back again because it didn't have too much of a wow factor. I also thought it was interesting that the bread was giving butter in little packets like that, it was a little tacky but not a big deal. read more

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Very rude and uninviting. Staff were horrible. No one was in the restaurant and they did not want us there.

The food was delicious. I came here with my one year-old daughter , the server I can't remember his name, but he was very knowledgeable. The ambience was relaxed in between casual and formal. I would definitely return. It would be a great spot for a date. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Patio - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Extremely cute place in little Italy Baltimore. I was here with a group of 10 women for dinner on a Friday night after a conference. I had reservations for 6 people initially but they were able to accommodate a much larger group. They opened their secondary part of the restaurant for us so it gave us a private feel. We all got drinks and mains. Complimentary bread and butter for the table. The service was fast. The food was delicious. We also got homemade tiramisu for dessert. Keep in mind that they do not split checks, which wasn't a big problem as we all have Venmo or other apps nowadays :) read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Very good food from a quick search. There were good portions and well seasoned and well cooked food. The salad was huge, enough for two. Soda is served in a can with a glass of ice and there are no 'free refills'. Seemed like a neighborhood spot so there were families and couples too. Positive vibes that made you want to come back. There was a little music playing but not too loud. We were seated quickly and food can e out fairly quickly too. The server was kind and attentive so service was good. My favorite thing........ where some places give a breadstick in the side m, they served a small slice of cheese pizza. I thought that was awesome lol. You should visit. Plus there is a cute picture for a couple or family to take a picture in front of too. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Salad, fettuccini with meatballs and lasagna. - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Had higher expectations based on reviews and how the restaurant looks on the exterior. Main points to hit: - Long wait to receive food (longer than one hour, on a weeknight nonetheless) - Brought us the wrong food, after we looked at it for a little, they picked it up and then brought it to the correct people (in COVID times, not good) - I specifically made it known that I was gluten free, they said they had gluten free pasta (which they did), although the sauce in my pasta ended up having flour in it as a thickener. Learned this after the fact - Brought my friend the wrong dish entirely (he just went with it) - The only positive was our burrata appetizer. Pretty hard to mess up Will sadly not be returning. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Burrata - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I was really excited to go here because I thought the external decor was super cute and eclectic (love the light trees!) and I was hoping to sit on the deck upstairs... (I'm not really sure if that's possible though because I've never seen anyone actually sitting up there? Maybe the tables and chairs are just decorational..? I'm not sure.) But anyways, the food was just very run of the mill. It wasn't bad but it wasn't anything that I couldn't make myself or buy from the grocery store either. Idk if this is unreasonable to say and to be fair we only got one dish with 2 appetizers so it's not like we sampled the whole menu but... I just don't think we'll be going back with all the other options available to us in little Italy. It was still a cute place though! read more

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My man loves this spot and wanted me to experience this too. I had lasagna and a sangria and he chose to eat the spinach and Fritto Misto. We forgot to take pics but enjoyed our time together and the meals were delicious. read more

So glad we found our way to Cafe Gia during a weekend trip to Baltimore. Every aspect of our meal was just right. Our party of six sat comfortably outside on their covered patio. Gia herself came out to greet us and make sure our table was safe from any rain that threatened to fall. We shared the bruschetta, fritto misto, and arancini for our appetizers. The arancini were a particular standout - light, perfectly crisp, super delicate and flavorful. For dinner we ordered lasagna, chicken florentina, linguini vongole, cacio e pepe, and casoncelli. Everything was beautifully plated and tasted delicious. The pasta was cooked just right. The chicken was tender. The standout for me was the casoncelli. Great balance of flavors. I also highly recommend orderingtheir espresso martini. The caffe'cello they use in the beverage is made in house and it's wonderful. You can taste the quality of their ingredients and their experience in every bite. Highly recommend Cafe' Gia. read more

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We were here 8 months ago and had the best experience. Today that all went out the door. Service was slow and terrible. I asked Abdel our waiter if the arugula could be omitted, and he said he wasn't sure and would check with the chef. 20 minutes later I flagged him down and asked if the no arugula was ok with the chef and he looked at me, no apology, and said yeah I told the chef no arugula. Seriously annoying. He never checked how the food with us. They were busy but they were not busy when we arrived. Food was mediocre at best. We will not be back. There are too many options in this area. read more

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I have been meaning to try this place ever since I moved to the neighborhood, but due to the higher price point, it took me a long time to get around to it. Right off the bat the restaurant is very warm and cozy with some really cool paintings all over the walls and some funky lighting. It was quiet and a nice soundtrack was playing. Ambiance was a 5/5 Our server seemed to be the only one in the building, and he was also making the drinks. He was incrredibly friendly, quick, and professional. Service was a 5/5 For dinner we ordered bruschetta and buratta for the table. Both tasted very fresh and were really good. I loved the addition of capers and olives in the bruschetta. For our entrees we ordered 3 of their pasta dishes, all priced around $22 each, Including the vegetarian option. The portions were generous, leaving us all with leftovers. The pasta was made in house and was also very good. Unfortunately the flavor fell flat in all three dishes. They were definitely good but there's not much more to say about them. They could have used more herbs and spices for sure, especially for a $22 bowl of cauliflower pasta. The food was a 3/5. Overall we had a great time and will definitely return, just maybe for apps instead, as those were the star of the show. read more

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We were a party of 8 looking for a table in Little Italy without a reservation. Kirk checked to see what he could do. In about 5 minutes, we had an amazing table off a back bar, but the whole room to ourselves; it was perfect for hearing each other, tasting each other's entrees, and having the best time as a family. Evelyn, our waitperson, was phenomenal in answering questions from our teenagers and making accomodations where possible. The food was awesome - osso buco to die for, great salads, delicious pasta classics. The service and food made for a wonderful dining experience. We will come back! read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Our family of 8 had a great table at a fabulous restaurant - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

It is remarkably rare for me to write a review within hours of an experience. This usually means it was either amazing or abhorrent. I'm sure the single star alerts you to which of the two experiences you'll read about here. Arrived about 10 min ahead of 2 friends for dinner. Walked in the open door and stood by the hostess stand as 4 different employees taking food to patrons outside just walked by. After several more minutes, a lady who had seen me standing at the door and was about 10 feet from me the entire time, came over and asked if I had a reservation. When I said no, she said she'd see what she could do and that I needed to wait for my party. A few minutes later my friends arrived and we were seated outside. We were given menus and a carafe of water. Each table surrounding us, literally, had been visited by a server twice and we still didn't even have glasses for the water. We had enough time to catch up, make weekend plans, choose our entrees and select another place to dine before anyone even asked us if we needed anything. Luckily we were able to go across the street for dinner. Light years apart in terms of customer service. Such a wonderful experience that I almost forgot about this one. Cafe Gia has been on my must try list since moving to Baltimore and now it's on a completely different list. Wouldn't recommend anyone be treated so poorly. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Poorest customer service received in years - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Called 550 asking how long for 4 people. Guy on phone says I can't now I can do 630/645. I say ok I'll come 630. Guy takes down my name for reservation. Arrived at restaurant 629. Guy walks to us and ask how can he help (same guy on phone very distinguishable voice). I respond with my name and my reservation for 630. He responds with "we're so backed up there's no way I can sit you". My question why would you agree to my reservations if you can accommodate us? Could've went somewhere else earlier instead of wasting my time. read more

We've been coming to little Italy since 1975. We moved from Baltimore in 1998 and continue to come back to see friends and family. We had an Amazing dinner here and call my cousin and she and her family meet us here. The service was great everyone loved their dinner. A must if you are passing through Baltimore or if you live there. read more

Wonderful meal and friendly server. The restaurant is also beautiful. My husband had the veal osso bucco. The rest of us had pasta (lasagna and pasta with meatballs). Everything was delicious! read more

I love Gias. We are here at least once a week & when family is in town they request it. Their lasagna & mussels are the best in town. My absolute fave. 10/10 service & love the patio + art! read more

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Some of the best Italian food I've ever had. Lovely service and delicious food. Check this place out. The ambiance is wonderful. You'll never regret it. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Little Italy - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Visiting from California. Picked this place out in Little Italy. Honestly, I've had better. Service & food were both blahh. read more

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Cafe Gia is my favorite restaurant in Baltimore no doubt! Every time I come here the service is great and the ambiance is lovely. I will admit that their pasta is pretty standard and nothing too special (although their gnocchi has an amazing soft pillowy texture!!) The real star of the show on their menu is their appetizers. You must order their arancini and their mussels. Not many places in Baltimore serve arancini so this alone is worth visiting cafe Gia for! The mussels are also the best I've had in Baltimore. They are always huge, juicy, and the saffron broth is incredible. They will also give you free bread so be sure to ask for some extra to dip in the broth!! The staff are also all Italian and this restaurant truly reminds me of when I visited Italy. Definitely give this place a try and order the apps!!! read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - Sauteed Mussels Ricotta Gnocchi w/ Shrimp Fried Calamari - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

The food was absolutely incredible, but the service was even better! The owner took time to sit with us, after I invited her to, and she told us the story of the restaurant and was so sweet and kind! The atmosphere is great, and the food is very authentic. read more

Cafe Gia Ristorante - The outside of the restaurant is very cute. - Italian Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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A wonderful dinner on our last night in Baltimore. We sat outside and enjoyed the great food and service. Our server Abdell was made our evening very enjoyable! We had the opportunity to speak wit the owner Giovanna.....what a pleasant surprise. She capped off a great evening. We will be back. Thank you Marc and Michelle. read more

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