La Scala
Experience high-end Sicilian fare in a warm, classy atmosphere featuring an indoor bocce court and an extensive wine list.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
La Scala
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience high-end Sicilian fare in a warm, classy atmosphere featuring an indoor bocce court and an extensive wine list.
"La Scala is probably the best Italian restaurant I’ve ever eaten at."
Reservations Recommended
Book ahead, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is popular and can get quite busy.
Ask for Knowledgeable Staff
Request servers like Michelle for expert menu advice and wine pairings.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Handmade Pasta Perfection
Experience perfectly cooked, authentic Italian pasta dishes, from classic Carbonara to unique specials like Fettuccine Samantha.
Unique Ambiance & Bocce Court
Enjoy a warm, classy atmosphere complemented by an indoor bocce court for a fun and distinctive dining experience.
Signature Espresso Martini
Don't miss the espresso martini, a must-try specialty drink that's a crowd-pleaser for its perfect execution.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations Recommended
Book ahead, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is popular and can get quite busy.
Ask for Knowledgeable Staff
Request servers like Michelle for expert menu advice and wine pairings.
Clarify Spice Levels
Dishes like Spaghetti con Funghi can be unexpectedly spicy; ask your server if you prefer mild.
Communicate Special Needs
Inform staff of dietary needs or allergies when booking for the best experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations Recommended
Book ahead, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is popular and can get quite busy.
Ask for Knowledgeable Staff
Request servers like Michelle for expert menu advice and wine pairings.
Clarify Spice Levels
Dishes like Spaghetti con Funghi can be unexpectedly spicy; ask your server if you prefer mild.
Communicate Special Needs
Inform staff of dietary needs or allergies when booking for the best experience.
Try the Specialties
Consider unique dishes like Fettuccine Samantha or the shrimp toast for a memorable meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Scala is celebrated for its authentic Italian cuisine, particularly its handmade pasta and warm, classy atmosphere. Diners rave about exceptional service and unique dishes. However, some large group experiences and specific dishes have led to disappointment, with suggestions to communicate dietary needs clearly.
"First time in little Italy Baltimore and at La Scala authentic Italian restaurant. Very warm yet classy atmosphere inside. Super sweet and nice waitress. The food is really good, pasta was perfect Al Dente. Food taste authentic Italian with perfect amounts of spices not overwhelming. We definitely will return in the future. Worth the visit for a great dinner."
Ágnes Farkas
"La Scala – Disappointed by the Quality (Not Recommended for Large Parties)
Rated 4 Stars – My Experience: 1 Star
We had dinner at La Scala last night with a large family group of 11, and the experience was a major disappointment. Because of our group size, we were required to order from a fixed menu priced at $80 per person, which included gratuity but not alcohol. We weren’t concerned about the cost—we were hoping for a quality dining experience. What we got felt more like a cheap wedding banquet—rushed, impersonal, and not at all worth the hype.
We had mentioned a food allergy when the reservation was made, but it was never communicated to our server. After several attempts to bring it up, the allergy was finally acknowledged during the second course, and only then was a separate menu brought out. The server apologized and admitted she hadn’t been informed.
We were brought up a spiral staircase to the third floor—even with a guest in our group who had mobility limitations—and seated in a cramped corner of a back room. The service overall was cold and inattentive.
The food was equally underwhelming. The caprese salad had underripe, flavorless tomatoes. The calamari was undercooked. The grilled Caesar was fine but unremarkable. The penne alla vodka was the one standout—well-prepared and flavorful. The chicken parmesan, however, had a sharp, off-putting taste that the chef attributed to “organic eggs.” It didn’t go over well at our table.
Dessert was a shared platter of tiramisu and profiteroles—just one small piece per person.
We also added two bottles of wine ($40 each) and three cocktails, which pushed the total to about $1,200. But again, this isn’t about the money—it’s the lack of quality and care that stood out most.
Would I go back? No.
Would I recommend La Scala? Not at all.
Large groups, especially those with dietary needs, should steer clear."
Chef Priscilla
"Four years ago, while on vacation we stumbled in here for dinner. It was amazing then, and we've made a point to go once a year and it's never disappointed. The bartenders are the best. Worth the 3 hour drive from Jersey."
Erica Leoncini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for weekend dining, as the restaurant is very popular.
Popular choices include handmade pasta like Fettuccine Samantha, Carbonara, Rigatoni, and the Grilled Caesar Salad. The Espresso Martini is also a signature drink.
While not explicitly detailed, Italian cuisine often has vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly or communicate dietary needs when booking.
The restaurant offers a warm yet classy atmosphere, noted for its elegance and even featuring an indoor bocce court.
Yes, La Scala boasts an indoor bocce court and has been recognized for its unique ambiance and traditional yet idiosyncratic touches.
Service is generally praised for being exceptional and knowledgeable, though some reviewers noted a lack of attentiveness for larger groups.
While they can accommodate large parties, one review indicated a disappointing experience for a group of 11, especially regarding allergy communication. It's crucial to clearly communicate all needs when booking.
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Baltimore Dining - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums
I also suggest La Scala and La Tavola in Little Italy, Vespa in Federal Hill (near Blue Agave), or if you want to take a cab to Fells Point, Ze Mean Bean Cafe offers great Slavic food.
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The servers are dressed like steam-train conductors, the pepper grinders are brandished like wands, and the pasta—made in-house—is worthy of all those ancient ladies making orecchiette on Pasta Grannies. Chef-owner Nino Germano has been running the place for over a quarter-century, and it manages to be both traditional and idiosyncratic: There’s a bocce ball court near the front door, and instead of a chandelier, there’s a wooden octopus hanging from the ceiling. Whatever makes Germano happy is fine with us.
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Address: 1012 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202Phone:+1 (410) 783-9209Website:lascaladining.comDetails: $$, Italian restaurant. La Scala, an Italian restaurant located in Baltimore’s charming Little Italy, has gained a reputation for its exceptional staff, inviting atmosphere, and delectable menu. Visitors find themselves drawn to this establishment, even planning return trips just to experience its unique charm.
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To name a few: Café Gia is known for its colorful mural and balcony, La Tavola is a top pick for fine dining, La Scala has an outdoor patio and complimentary shuttle from downtown and family-owned favorite Sabatino’s has been around for generations. If you have a sweet tooth, you can’t miss Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry, which has been open since 1956, for traditional cannolis, gelato and biscotti.
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Yelp: 4 stars, 141 reviews Delicious Italian food with modern charm and a lively crowd--it’s no wonder La Scala won the Best Of Baltimore Reader’s Choice award. Happy hour is always a hit with an affordable assortment of wines, beer and their famous $6 espresso martinis. Regulars of La Scala’s will all agree, though, that crown jewel of their menu is the Grilled Caesar Salad.
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Chef-owner Nino Germano started the restaurant in 1995 on High Street and moved the business around the corner to Eastern Avenue when he outgrew the original space. Over the years, he has added an indoor bocce court. Work up an appetite with a round of the old Italian pastime before chowing on garlic-imbued shrimp scampi or cannoli prepared by the chef’s mother.
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La Scala Ristorante Italiano has worked hard to create a menu that combines the best of classic Italian food with unique novelties. Stop by to enjoy their elegantly informal ambiance, which is wonderfully complemented by Chef Nino’s authentic and unique dishes. A big dining area, a private event space, and a wine tasting room are all available at La Scala.
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Sometimes all you need is some Sicillian food to fill you up for lunch or dinner. If this is exactly what you are craving, make sure to try out La Scala Ristorante Italiano in Little Italy, Baltimore!. La Scala has been voted “Baltimore’s Best Italian Restaurant” and is known for their tasty dishes that are made with fresh and quality ingredients too.
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Next up is Little Italy's La Scala, situated at 1012 Eastern Ave. The small restaurant is headed by a Sicilian-born proprietor and features traditional, homestyle cooking, with entrees like chicken in Marsala wine sauce and New York strip topped with tomato, fresh herbs and fresh mozzarella. It also boasts impressive salami, cheese and wine lists.
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1012 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202410-783-9209 Visit Website. In the middle of Little Italy is La Scala Ristorante Italiano, one of the best restaurants in all of Baltimore. This restaurant perfectly marries classic Italian cuisine with surprising innovations and elegance with a welcoming atmosphere.
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Opened in 1995, La Scala may not be the oldest or most famous Italian restaurant in Little Italy, but this is the neighborhood spot where other chefs eat. The Urban Oyster owner and head chef Jasmine Norton is a fan and recommends the Lobster Regina. The overall atmosphere here is festive and welcoming.
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You are going to love dining at La Scala, they are one of the best Baltimore restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will find them in the heart of Little Italy and serve authentic Italian food. Treat yourself to the lobster Regin or try the local’s favorite the Veal scallopini.
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Lobster Regina is Jasmine's go-to dish at La Scala – Photo courtesy of Brian Cicioni. There are more than a dozen different Italian restaurants and cafes in Little Italy, but Jasmine keeps going back to La Scala. As a Baltimore native, she's been visiting the area since childhood.
Highest-rated Italian Restaurants in Baltimore, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (898 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: Italian, Tuscan- Price: $$$$- Address: 1012 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202-4326- Read more on Tripadvisor
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If you love Italian food, you should go to La Scala Ristorante Italiano together. This is an incredible restaurant where you can have delicious Italian food. Moreover, it is one of the best Italian restaurants in the world.
Must-See Sights and Activities
Duck Duck Goose, The Helmand, Dylan’s Oyster Cellar, Gunther & Co., Hersh’s, La Scala, Magdalena, Restaurante Tio Pepe, Alma Cocina Latina, The Food Market, Cindy Lou’s Fish House, True Chesapeake Oyster Co., Hersh’s
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La Scala Ristorante Italiano offers the finest in high-end Sicilian cuisine. Featuring a range of high-quality wines and a menu with a variety of authentic meals, this restaurant is a real piece of Little Italy.
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Check out La Scala, which has received numerous accolades, and includes menu items like penne vodka, veal scallopini with jumbo lump crab and shrimp, and chicken parmesan.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit