We are going to be in Baltimore for the weekend of July 7-8. I would appreciate suggestions for good places to eat in Little Italy. Thanks in advance for your help.

For elegance, try Bocaccio on Eastern Avenue, but be sure to dress up. The food is outstanding, but pricey. A close second, in my opinion, is Germano's. I also like Veleggia's, but that's pure sentiment speaking, because that's where my husband took me on our first date. The food is OK, but not superlative. Sabatino's is very popular, but unless you are "someone" you risk being seated in the basement with the other tourists. Ciao Bella is also fun. Wherever you eat, go to Vaccaro's for dessert -- many restarants get their dessert there anyway, so why not go to the source?

Eva has given you good advice but my friends and I would add in another choice, Aldo's, which is across the street from Sabatinos and next door to Germano's. It is high end, but better and newer than Bocaccio or Germano's. Aldo's has an unbelievable wine list also. For cheap good Italian in Little Italy, also consider Amicci's, on the same block mentioned above. Our favorite restaurant, not Italian, but located near Little Italy, is Charleston, which many consider the best restaurant in Baltimore. Another new nearby choice which I hear good news about is Fleming's. Have fun!

Isn't there an Olive Garden in the area too?

Is Aldo's owned by the Damimo's (sp) family, or, what happened to them?! I think Southern Living had a write up some time ago... Used to love the bar- felt like back in the days of Sammy, Dean and Frank, with a real torch singer!

Dear Blake: No there is no Olive Garden and I hope you're just joking because the residents of Little Italy may get one of their relatives from N.J. after you if you ask! Yes, Da Mimmo's is still around, very expensive and gets mixed reviews. Aldo's is owned by a different family to the best of my knowledge.