The concierge at the Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards (Gene - go see him, he picks the best restaurants!) told us to go to Rocco's in Baltimore's Little Italy and to be sure to say hello to Pappa. \r
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They have a free shuttle (van) to pick you up so 10 of us piled into this no-so-new van. Luckily it was a short ride from the hotel. We pull up and the place from the outside was a little run down looking. Step inside and you are still questioning your decision to go here. We were greeted and told the specials and immediately we knew what we wanted. Appetizers came out and they were SO GOOD! It was shrimp, stuffed mushrooms and calamari. Mmmm! Even the oil and vinegar was excellent - I could have made a meal from it and the bread. Our meals come out and they were to die for! We had to finish it up with canoli and tiramisu. Mmm! The meals were a little pricey individually (around $30) but amazingly we got out of there for less than $400 for 10 of us! (We didnt order alcohol so I'm sure that helped). \r
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To make sure I said hello to Pappa I was given his business card with his picture on it. He is the owner and chef. I saw what I thought was Pappa talking to a couple tables and compared it to the business card. Yep, that was him, with just a little more ""character"" now. :) I made sure to say hello and I think he blushed. Too cute. \r
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In summary, it doesnt look like much from appearances, but the food is amazing. I will go back to Baltimore just to eat at Rocco's... and I made sure to tip my concierge. :)
Pros: Excellent food and staff
Cons: Facility is old and run down
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