What does Il Pizzico mean in English - perfection perhaps??? I know that's not what it means - but it should. This unassuming restaurant in a rather seedy strip of Rockville Pike exceeds expectations at all levels. The dining room is neutral and simple, relaxing and quiet. The service is fantastic. Honestly, there are not too many professional waiters left in the world but, the ones that remain, all work at Il Pizzico. Service is impeccable. Danny was perfect. The owner, Enzo, is charming and enlightened with his menu. When we mentioned how much we liked ramps (which Enzo had picked himself out in the woods, by the way), he went and got some pickled ramps he made for himself only (not on the menu) so we could taste. Charming. Inspired. Elegant even! My main course was ramp risotto with scallops. OMG great! The risotto was luxurious and complex and filling and surprising - all at once! I hate to throw out the word "perfect" again but this dish was in fact perfect! The rice was perfectly cooked and satisfyingly crispy at its center. Honestly, I got lost in this dish. There were other things in the risotto - onions? Scallops for sure. Green shavings (what the heck was that)? Who cares! The risotto was that good. My dish was so good that it could have been ONLY risotto and I would have loved it! The risotto was so good, in fact, that I ordered creme brulee for dessert and I don't even like creme brulee. I know this doesn't make sense and I know it doesn't paint me in a good light - but it's true. I wanted the outstanding dining experience to continue so I ordered something that I usually overlook in order to keep it going. Ok, so I do not need to say this. BUT I WILL. I highly recommend Il Pizzico. Full stop! read more

Il Pizzico was such an outstanding experience. From the outside, it's tucked away in the most random little area in Rockville, so we honestly weren't expecting much walking in, but once you step inside, it completely transforms. The restaurant is beautiful with a warm, romantic, old Italian vibe. The food was great and surprisingly reasonably priced for how nice the restaurant feels. I wouldn't say it's the most mind-blowing Italian food I've ever had, but it tasted like a truly delicious homemade Italian meal. The wine prices were also fair. On top of that, our server was incredibly attentive and friendly throughout the night. Overall, such a lovely dinner and definitely a place we'll be back to again. One note: you have 2 hour limit so just be aware you may be a little rushed! read more

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This has been on my want to visit list for a while. My husband and I came for lunch to celebrate Valentines day early. The ambiance was quiet and when we got there aroun 1p we were seated right away. Our server was very attentive and provided recommendations. The complimentary bread and olive tapenade were delicious. I ordered the penne eggplant dish and was pleasantly surprised. The portions looked small but as I started to ear I realized it was perfect amount. My husband got the seafood pasta and loved his disg as well. We definitely had to get dessert and decided to share the creme brulee amd tiramisu. These were the stars of the meal. I would go back here just for the dessert. Had a pleasant experience and it lived up to my expectations. read more

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Great Italian spot in Rockville--truly a gem! Everything was delicious, with perfectly al dente noodles and flavorful sauces. Prices are fair, and the service is excellent. It's a smaller space that fills up quickly, so make a reservation if you can. Would definitely come back! read more

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I was back to celebrate something special and so reservations were made in advance. If you wait too long to make a reservation, your preferred time will be scooped up rather quickly, as I discovered. It was all good. On a Saturday night, I discovered this place was rather busy. It was my first time seeing patrons fill the entire bar area (almost) and I was glad to see Brad was still here. Yay!! My friend and I arrived a bit early for our reservations, but we were able to be seated. I loved that the restaurant was all decked out in holiday decorations. As we were seated, within a few minutes, our server verbally shared the Special's. You must listen very carefully as they don't have a menu showing what these specials are, but once you hear them, you are going to want to try at least one - whether it be an entrée or an appetizer. The olive tapenade they serve with the table alongside some bread tastes fresh. This was the first I didn't want seconds of the olive tapenade (I hope it will be the only time I experience this). For appetizer, I had the Croquettes filled with Cod. They served 3 pieces with some cream on top. I can't remember what it was. I liked it overall. For my entrée, I stuck to the regular menu under "La Past Dinner" and got Ravioli di funghi al pistacchio. Menu describes it as ravioli filled with mushrooms and ricotta served with pistachio-cream sauce. The more you eat this through the years, the more this dish remains a fan favorite. I forgot to add that my drink of choice was the "Cosa Nostra". Not too strong, not overly sweet, but it is still a cocktail done right. Some time ago I was introduced to this drink by Brad, and I only get it here. Try it for yourself. For dessert, I got Stracciatella Gelato - it has frozen chocolate bits in it. They gave me 3 large scoops. I loved this gelato flavor. Remember that if you are celebrating something, nothing here will be complimentary, but it won't stop me from coming back. Parking is free. read more

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Highly recommend making reservations to try this place! Either call or utilize their online reservation process. Food was delicious, portions are enough for 1-2 people to share. Fresh, fun pasta dishes and entrees. Wait staff were very nice, server was ok not spectacular. Felt rushed to eat and leave. Also not really kid friendly (they only had 1 highchair) Ambiance is old 90s Italian. Dim lights, decor on walls, etc. parking available in the lot. read more

Il Pizzico - Italian Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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Good food, but way overpriced for the quantity. $36 for a couple of shrimp, couple of scallops, few mussels, in not much cream sauce, with a few green leaves? $24 for 6 ravioli? will not be going back. read more

Finally, after all this time of obsessing over pictures of their mushroom ravioli, I made it here. Thank you to my good friend and fellow Yelper, Joy B. for accompanying me and providing me the opportunity to write this off my bucket list of places to go. We had an early dinner reservation, which made for easy parking in their small lot out front. The interior is quite romantic with dark lights and table light candle candles although it does get loud as the evening progresses and more diners arrive. Love the olive tapenade and bread. My lemon drop martini was very good, but the star of the show was the mushroom ravioli in a pistachio cream sauce. It was all it was hyped up to be. I even used the bread to sop up the extra sauce. I highly recommend you order this. Then of course save room for dessert. They have many options. I went for the classic crème brûlée. It was typical crème brûlée. They could have topped it with a few berries for a more aesthetic look. Service was top notch. Very attentive. I will definitely be back. read more

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We have been going to Pizzico since 1990 and it has NEVER disappointed. It's only competitor in Montgomery County unfortunately closed during Covid. you will NOT be disappointed! Don't expect spaghetti & meatballs - this is so far above that!!! (there is spaghetti, and there are meatballs, but not in that traditional Italian-American restaurant tradition. Bravo to Enzo and staff for consistent excellence Lovely space too read more

Always make a reservation if you're coming here for dinner! We went on a Tuesday and it was so packed. Despite that though we were quickly seated within ~30 mins. Staff were super sweet and welcoming. Food & atmosphere feels authentically Italian and the dishes were such great comfort dishes. Felt like an Italian nonna was cooking it for me! Everything was well seasoned & well cooked. We all loved our dishes. This is my 2nd time here and they have been consistent so far. Prices are also very fair. It's a little loud though so maybe not the place for an intimate first date. Parking can also be challenging if it's peak dining time. read more

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This has been on my go to list for a while and I'm so happy I was able to finally go! It is located in an unassuming, more industrial looking strip but inside you are transported to a homey Italian restaurant. We had to wait a little bit before we were greeted, but once seated, the service was amazing! I felt like there were servers, making sure our drinks were filled, had appetizers, and promptly brought over our bread prior to our meals. Everything they eat was delicious! Initially, I thought the portion sizes were on the smaller side, but I left feeling satisfied, but not too full. For dessert, the crème brûlée was a stand out! I would definitely come back again. Make sure you make reservation reservations. We came on a Thursday night and it was packed. The parking lot was pretty full too. read more

There is a reason that Il Pizzico has won the best restaurant award in Montgomery County for years. It is like a fine wine that only gets better with age. The service is spectacular. You are welcomed and appreciated from the moment you walk in the door. This is not a dinner that you rush through, it is an experience to be savored and enjoyed. The ambiance is beautiful. The warm rich tones, the comfortable chairs, the beautiful decorations, all add to your dining pleasure. This is one restaurant that I am happy to taste new menu items. One this occasion I tried the tuna and avocado tartar. It was delicious. The umami flavor of the tuna was enhanced with the creamy avocado. I would order it again in a heartbeat. Next, I enjoyed the fish poached in a butter- lemon sauce. The fish melted in your mouth. The addition of the capers added the acid to cut through the richness. It was wonderful. For dessert, I ordered the tiramisu. It was creamy, with coffee tones, and a delicate layer of flavor in each bite. My friend got the pasta with lamb sauce. She loved it. And, ended up taking some home with her, due to the generous portion size. Another friend ordered the most fantastic dessert. I am embarrassed to say I forgot the name of it. I just remember the depth of flavor and enticing taste. I know that if it is ever on the menu, it will be my first choice. He also got a spinach salad with his meal and really liked it. Il Pizzaco is a favorite restaurant in my family and I always adore my meals there. Be sure and make a reservation, because they are always busy. read more

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Upscale restaurant and delicious food and excellent waitstaff. Parking is kind of a problem, but the food makes up for it.

Overall, great experience here! Our server was very nice and quick. The pastas were delicious, especially the bucatini one. The calamari is not fried, but has a wonderful taste. We also got the espresso martini which was very smooth and sweet. I would recommend trying this restaurant. read more

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This is my go-to local Italian spot. They never miss! Consistently great service and delicious food. What more can you ask for? It's the perfect place for a date night or birthday celebration. read more

Il Pizzico - Italian Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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One of my favorite Italian restaurants. I came here for my birthday about 8 years ago and I came back this year...nothing has changed - it's still the best - customer service, people, and food! read more

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Il Pizzico means 'The Pinch,' and is owned by Enzo Livia. This small, unassuming Italian restaurant is located off of Frederick, in a retro-looking mini strip plaza. With just a blink, you may miss it! They have both a lunch and a dinner menu, offering dishes with housemade pastas as well as daily specials. Some tips: +avoid the Salumi Board - doesn't include cornichons/pickled veggies, jellies, and a selection of cheeses to accompany the meats. +the Ravioli di Funghi al Pistacchio (ravioli filled with mushrooms and ricotta, all covered with a pistachio-cream sauce) is a favorite amongst the locals +avoid the Gnocchi di Ricotta alla Gorgonzola Tartufata (ricotta dumpling pasta with a mild gorgonzola sauce drizzled with truffle oil) - slightly gummy and dry +request only the sun-dried tomato bread in the complimentary bread basket; tapenade is just okay Service is friendly. +friendly service +small lot for your car read more

We have been there multiple times and have loved each meal. One of our favorite special go to restaurants.

Uppn entry, the greeter/host was so nice! The place was very busy and well managed! Waiting staff knew answers to all of our questions and they made an accommodation to my allergy. They were swift and very efficient. The ambiance was buzzing but still cozy. They have a smart casual dress code whiwasI was glad about. The lighting was subdued and gentle and created a relaxed mood. The place is small/medium size but accommodates a large swell of customers really well. The food was AMAZING. I can see why they were awarded a Forchetta by Gambero Rosso. The foccacia, though not the Kind I was looking for, was homemade and really good, especially with the olive tapenade. We had the Risotto of the day which had mushrooms and microgreens, the arancini for appetizers. Loved both but the risotto was something that's going to have me coming back for it. For our entrees we ordered the Spaghetti allo Scoglio and Ravioli Di Funghi Al Pistacchio. The pistacchio sauce was superb. The noodles for the spaghetti were perfectly al dente. We also offered the sparkling rose and tirimisu. Honest to God I'm going back and ordering everything on the menu just to try it all at some point. Please go. So worth it. read more

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Il Pizzico is one of the few Italian traditional restaurants in the Rockville known for it's fine dining. Reservations are recommended since this place is packed for dinner usually and the parking spaces can get a little crowded sometimes. The lunch times are between 11am to 2pm then it closes until dinner, usually no reservations required for lunch. Since they have been here in Rockville for as long as I can remember, they have evolved and also has updated the menu with some contemporary style italian dishes including some unique choices. The service is excellent and the decor is romantic for a quiet dinner atmosphere that can sometimes get quite lively too. I recommend Il Pizzico since they have some of the best tasting italian pasta and also a mixture of traditional Italian food with some creative unique flavors. They are closed on Mondays typically and reservations can only be made on their website only. read more

Such a lovely group of people. After trying to order by phone and online, I arrived 10 minutes to closing and did a little begging a the podium. Since I had my order written a nice gentleman pled my case to the kitchen staff. Next time I saw him he was imputting the info in the register. When I got the food home after many thanks, we were blown away. Everything was fabulous!! We will be back and this time with a reservation. read more

Great service and food!!! Milton made us feel great and we had delicious food We will be back! read more

We went on a slow Tuesday night. - The food was alright. Everything tasted good; The salads were probably the best item we ate. However, both of us were not feeling great afterwards and the next day. - Service was excellent. - Ambiance was warm, inviting read more

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II Pizzico is probably one of the few nicer Italian restaurants in Rockville. With that, they have less pressure to keep up an authentic italian cuisine. Upon arrival, we were seated 10 minutes after our reservation. Initial thoughts: it's pretty dark and chaotic. They give bread to start with tapenade, both were delightful. Food was brought out promptly and plated well. The serving size is not all that great for their prices. The pasta itself was overall an 8/10. It didn't wow me but it also didn't disappoint. It was flavored well, but for an Italian place they don't have alfredo on their menu and it was mainly comprised of tomato based pastas. As for dessert, this hit the ballpark. The crème brulee was light and airy with just enough sweetness. The carmelized sugar was delicious. The chocolate mousse was beautiful as well. Creamy and soft with the perfect chocolate flavor. My only drawbacks from this place is: ⁃ It's really loud inside, the tables are very close together. ⁃ They don't give complimentary dessert for birthdays. - Parking is a bit limited, but there's at least additional parking in the back. read more

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The staff are incredibly attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and kind. I went in with a friend during lunch and our meals came out quickly. The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the crème brûlée is the best I've ever had! The lunch pasta prices are very reasonable for it being upscale. read more

Il Pizzico - Mushroom Pasta with Cream Sauce - Italian Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

I am so late to the party. Went for a girls night dinner and every single thing we ate was delightful. The Tuna tartare is absolutely to die for. Seasoned to perfection and presented so appetizing. The olive spread was tasty and I don't even like olives. This was a winner. I had pasta with calamari, shrimp, mussels, and scallops and the seafood portion was plentiful. I really enjoyed it. I added a little fresh Parmesan sprinkled on top and for me it brought it together. We had cannoli for dessert and it topped off a perfect meal. Both management and wait staff service was top notch. Water glass always full, professionalism, proper decor, and attentive. We will be back. read more

Il Pizzico - Cannoli - Italian Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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We've went here twice- This is the best Italian restaurant I've ever been to. Definitely the best in Rockville. I personally enjoyed it more than Filomena Ristorante in Georgetown for context. Reservation only *Ambiance is very relaxing and classy. Service is extremely professional. *They make the majority of pastas (which is clarified on menu) from scratch!! *Cocktails are delicious. I hate Aperol- and their limoncello spritz was a much better version of this drink. Bucatini was great. Specials are spot on- rockfish was phenomenal. Lemon Butter Cod was just about as great as Cod can be!! Tuna tartare had the perfect amount of acid and fat ratio. I may just continue trying new things on the special menu because it's been great every time. *dessert- I would recommend the Tiramisu! Creme Brûlée's texture was off for me- but the tiramisu was phenomenal! *Owner(?) of the place, who I believe is the person hosting is very polite, hospitable & welcoming. We had a misunderstanding if I could bring our drinks to the table (which I had purchased from the bar) & he apologized several times. However, as someone in the industry- it was extremely respectable that he wanted to make sure the bartender got his share for his hard work. I simply do not come back to restaurant's that do not treat their staff well & this made me feel like this place has a great foundation. *Bartender was really attentive & hospitable. We were both very passionate about cocktail quality & craft. I would return with my boyfriend to grab a drink & chat with him again. The restaurant was slammed (we were at the bar waiting for our table) & he did not skip a beat working the service bar and ensuring we had a great experience simultaneously. *overall this place is a hidden gem. Seriously, the outside looks absolutely nothing like the inside. We were limited because my boyfriend has a nut allergy but I'd like to return with some friends and try all the other wonderful dishes they have to offer & add to the review! read more

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Special birthday celebration for my husband! We were a party of 3 with a reservation made 2 weeks prior. Our table was ready when we arrived. The service was efficient and courteous The space was smallish so on a busy Saturday night, the noise level was a bit loud. Our appetizers arrived quickly and our empty/dirty dishes were removed promptly. Soon after, our dinners arrived-well presented and hot. Each dish was flavorful with the branzino being my favorite (melt in your mouth fillet with roasted vegetables). Portions were on the smaller side as you are meant to choose from each course as is typical in Italian fine dining. This is a nice special occasion restaurant for families with older children and adults. Smart casual attire read more

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I was in search of the perfect Italian restaurant to take my girlfriend in Rockville and this place delivered! Genuinely one of the best meals we've ever had together. Great service, high quality food, and well-priced given the high-end experience. Also, we were younger than the typical crowd, not regulars, and a queer couple, but were treated with such kindness (which can be a rarity these days). Will be back! read more

Great food and staff are friendly and nice. A rare gem of a family run non-chain restaurant in Rockville.

Best Itallian restaurant in the area by far! The atmosphere, THE FOOD and customer service are excellent. 10/10

Can I tell you this restaurant never gets old. It really should get a Michelin star for the quality of the food. We ordered the pistachio ravioli dinner for starters as an appetizer, and they were great to divide into two dishes it so that we could share among the table. The cheese and meat, charcuterie board was filled with amazing very flavorful meats. For entrees If you eat veal, the veal with raisins, was seasoned well cooked beautifully and our guest enjoyed. The fluke fish was out of this world for someone who normally doesn't eat fish. It was one of the best items entrées I've had in a long time it was tender, flaky great accompaniment, my other friends got the pasta dishes and enjoyed them. If you want to bring your own wines, they have a corkage fee, but it adds for fun. They celebrated our friends and loved the desserts from the ice cream gelato and the cannolis. The owner Enzo and his wife are wonderful!!! They greet you to make you feel very welcome which is special. It's just a great place to go for a regular dinner, a celebratory dinner or for fun. I highly recommend and the ambiance has a great vibe !! This place is first rate. read more

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This is one of the rare times I wish there was an extra star to give a resturant!! The food at Il Pizzico was absolutely devine! There were lots of highlights with my dining experience, but if I had to whittle it down to just a few: * The intimate setting of the restaurant and the individual lighting with each table really set a great atmosphere. * The service was 10/10!! Our server was very knowledgeable not only of the menu, but also the specials for the day. * Really expansive wine menu - which has me ready to go back and try more of their sommelier's options. * Without a doubt, their pasta is freshly made... Which of course is a must with a fine dining Italian restaurant & the portion sizes are spot on - not too big, to leave you feeling overwhelmed, or too small that you're hungry after your entrée!! read more

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The best kept secret in Rockville. Outstanding food and service every time. Great vibe and staff are always pleasant. Food is delicious!

Bellissimo! Bravo! That is all that really needs to be said. This is a little yet lovely and upscale italian restaurant that will surly make a memorable dining experience. I would highly recommend!! The Mitra de was wonderful and accommodating (we did not make reservations- I recommend that you do). The staff were superb and very knowledgeable. Great recommendations! A pleasant gem to have in this area. read more

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Just based on location alone, this is a hidden gem. I have been looking for a good Italian restaurant in the MD burbs and saw so many stellar reviews about Il Pizzico that I figured why not come for my birthday dinner? It was an excellent choice on my end. The restaurant has a nice, old-school, classic vibe with nice mood lighting. They do have a sign that says "smart causal" as the dress code and people stick with it, so use it as an excuse to dress up! The service was impeccable, after we checked in, our server brought the menus and asked us almost instantaneously if we wanted wine or cocktails. I ordered a glass of sangiovese which was a great pairing. The server also brought a generous portion of soft, fresh Italian bread and olive tapenade. We ordered the prosciutto and buffalo mozzarella and the beef carpaccio to start. The prosciutto was on the small side and could have used more cheese. It was a fine portion for two people but if there are more at your table, consider ordering two. The beef carpaccio was deliciously seasoned and the arugula parmesan salad really made the dish. For my main, I ordered the tagliatelle a'l ragu. It was absolutely incredible and not too large of a portion. Considering I had spent most of the day snacking, eating cake, and drinking, I thought it was the perfect amount of food. I can't wait to try more of their dishes, especially the short rib! read more

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Il Pizzico sits in the strip along Rockville Pike and Gude Drive, like any number of restaurants, next to a Chinese restaurant and an unfinished furniture store. It is not a location that screams, "I'm about to get awesome upscale Italian food," and if I'm being honest, the name doesn't help. To me, it reads like an attempt at "The Pizza Company," and my expectation of an Italian restaurant that centres around pizza are not high. But, shelf these expectations, because you're about to go on a very different journey. Stepping into the restaurant, you really want to step back out and look again. The atmosphere is very intimate, romantic, and upscale. It is also very Italian -- the art on the walls, the music, everything in it just makes you feel like you've been transported to Naples. Their menu is fantastic, with a wide selection of drinks appetizers, pastas, and main courses. The main drink menu was a little odd, as they appeared to have a lot of house cocktails without descriptions. The wine selection was very broad, mostly Italian (obviously), and fantastic. I ordered a prosciutto and mozzarella appetizer. It was good, though I honestly felt the potions were a little light (there were only two very small slices of mozzarella, and three slices of prosciutto). The carpaccio appetizer was a little more generous, and fantastic. The pasta dish was delicious, and perfectly cooked. Like the appetizers, I felt it was a little small in portion, but not badly so, and with the appetizers, it was enough food without being overmuch. Overall, a great dining experience, and one I'll try to repeat soon! Few pro-tips: -- The restaurant doesn't look like much from the outside, but inside, it's very upscale. They've got a dress code of "smart casual," and if you go in with jeans and a t-shirt, you're going to feel underdressed. Ask me how I know. :) -- Parking in the front is very limited. There's lots and lots of parking behind, but be cautious, it's a little tight. read more

Il Pizzico - Italian Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

If you're looking for a classy authentic Italian restaurant, this is it! I came here for a date night and it was a very nice experience. The service was wonderful and the pasta was delicious. The pasta plates were on the smaller side but still very much satisfying. read more

Il Pizzico - Wine and bread - Italian Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

Food was excellent. Prices are extremely reasonable. The service was very good. The biggest issue is the restaurant is very noisy. read more

The Olive Spread they serve with the bread is unique & delicious! Involtino di melanzane (grilled eggplant bundles) are so good, I could order a whole apple just for myself. Ravioli di funghi al pistacchio is my favorite and I'm not even a big mushroom person. Flavor is amazing and the portion size is just right. Great spot for just about anything. Quaint spot & attentive service. Celebrated our 20th anniversary here! read more

Il Pizzico - Involtino di melanzane - Italian Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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