About
Downtown Annapolis is known for its historic charm and lively food scene. One standout eatery is Osteria 177, serving up the true flavors of Northern Italy in its upscale setting.
While many Italian restaurants promise authenticity, Osteria 177 delivers with Chef Arturo Ottaviano, who grew up in Verona, Italy. He brings classic Italian cooking to Annapolis and opened Osteria 177 in 2010. Since that day, it has set a new bar for Italian dining in the city.
Chef Ottaviano chose "osteria" as its name because it's Italian for a welcoming place for food, wine, and conversation. He also opted for the 177 Main Street address to put his restaurant at the center of Annapolis' busy dining scene. It's also part of the Colonial Annapolis Historic District, making it a breeze to combine a high-scale Italian lunch or dinner with sightseeing.
Since opening, the restaurant has become a go-to for those seeking fine dining with creative Italian cuisine. Here, house-made pastas and the well-executed main courses are what have made it one of Maryland's top-rated dining spots.
Whether you visit to celebrate a voyage with Schooner Woodwind Sailing Cruises or to enjoy Northern Italian fare, Osteria 177 will be a highlight of your Maryland getaway.
Vibe
Its facade is classic and inviting, with a brick exterior, tall windows, and fire-engine-red doors. Above the threshold is the restaurant's name in white lettering, which, when combined with the other classy elements, is but a precursor to the epicurean adventure awaiting inside.
The interior is warm and polished, combining an industrial vibe with a white-linen dining experience. The main dining room is for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking an upscale experience. Crisp white tablecloths, mahogany wood paneling, and soft lighting give the area a refined yet never stuffy feel.
The bar area offers a more relaxed environment, with wood tables, close seating at the bar, and flat-screen TVs. It's perfect for relaxing after touring the United States Naval Academy.
This flexibility means everyone can find the right spot, whether celebrating with family, dining with friends, or just grabbing a drink on your Maryland vacation.
Osteria 177: Menu & Drinks
With a lunch and dinner menu, we'd be hard-pressed to list all the favorites. Instead, we'll list some dinner standouts to pique your interest.
The various dinner appetizers could make for a tapas dining experience. From breaded rice croquettes to fresh calamari, lobster bisque, and veal tenderloin, the seemingly endless list will dazzle.
Many diners single out the Gnocchi al Pesto as a must-try: tender, house-made potato gnocchi dressed in a vibrant basil pesto. The sauce is bright and fragrant, and the gnocchi are light, pillowy, and expertly crafted. You may order it with a Gorgonzola cheese sauce instead of the basil.
Seafood options will impress, with the Spigola Cileno all'Escarola -Chilean Seabass being a standout. This dish showcases fresh caramelized Chilean Seabass with wilted Escarole, pine nuts, Golden raisins, a touch of Vin Cotto, and E.V.O.O.
The Cioppino as a highlight—this hearty stew comes loaded with fresh fish, shrimp, clams, and mussels, all simmered together in a rich tomato-and-wine broth that diners can't stop talking about.
Chicken, veal, and steak entrees shine, each with unique spices, ingredients, and cooking techniques. You'll also find exotic meats, like the Alce con Riserva di Marsala featuring Pamu Elk Farm Strip Loin. The seared elk sirloin comes with sautéed shallots and mixed Porcini mushrooms in an aged reserve Marsala wine sauce.
Alongside the food, the drink menu stands out, especially the wine list. You'll find a vintage for every meal, palate, and budget. Additionally, the craft cocktails and beers ensure there's a beverage for everyone.
Dining at Osteria 177 will elevate any Annapolis getaway with its real taste of Italy served with elegance, style, and care.
Local Tips
- Reservations are strongly encouraged.
- Check for seasonal specials that feature fresh, local ingredients.
- The bar offers a more casual setting for drinks and appetizers.
- The lunch menu features many of the dinner classics, but at a lower cost.
- Order fresh pasta and sauces to-go!
