Edited by Suzanne Loudermilk, By John Farlow, Henry Hong, Suzanne Loudermilk, Karen Nitkin, Bianca Sienra and Martha Thomas
March 2009
AIDA Bistro & Wine Bar, 7185 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia, 410-953-0500.
Aida brings urban jazz-inflected sophistication to the most sterile setting imaginable, a suburban office park in Howard County. But owners Joe and Mary Barbera have infused their restaurant with charm and confidence, from the first friendly greeting at the door to the final sip of excellent coffee. Warmly painted walls create a backdrop that allows the seemingly effortless Italian menu to shine. The offerings skip merrily from favorite red-sauce fare like eggplant parmigiana to more sophisticated dished like ravioli stuffed with a delightful mix of andouille sausage, shrimp, and smoked Gouda in a fresh, chunky marinara. A nightly prix fixe option lets diners choose two appetizers and a main course from an ever-changing selection, with wine or beer flights to match, if they want. Nobody will blame you if you can't decide between the Parmesan and herb-rubbed pork chop and the free-range roasted chicken with Marsala, but the knowledgeable staff will do its best to guide you through both the regular offerings and specials. Don't leave without trying one of the Italian-themed, made in house desserts like creme brulee or cannoli.
© 2008 Baltimore Magazine