Chef Paolino Cafe in Catonsville, Maryland, is a culinary gem known for its authentic Italian flavors and warm, inviting atmosphere. Their menu features a delightful variety of dishes that cater to diverse palates, blending traditional recipes with a modern twist. Whether you’re seeking a hearty pasta, fresh seafood, or delectable desserts, Chef Paolino offers an unforgettable dining experience.
This article explores the comprehensive menu available at Chef Paolino Cafe. From appetizers to desserts, each item is crafted with fresh ingredients and attention to detail.
Below, you will find detailed descriptions of the menu sections, including specials and drinks, helping you to plan your visit or delivery order with confidence.
“Chef Paolino Cafe is a perfect blend of authentic Italian cuisine and a welcoming neighborhood vibe. The flavors are rich, the portions generous, and the service exceptional.” – Local Food Enthusiast
Appetizers
Start your meal with a selection of delicious appetizers that set the tone for the rest of your dining experience. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light starter.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bruschetta | Grilled Italian bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. | $8.50 |
| Calamari Fritti | Crispy fried calamari served with marinara and lemon wedges. | $12.00 |
| Caprese Salad | Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. | $9.50 |
| Stuffed Mushrooms | Button mushrooms filled with a blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs. | $10.00 |
| Antipasto Platter | A medley of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and roasted vegetables. | $15.00 |
Soups & Salads
Chef Paolino Cafe offers fresh soups and salads that complement any meal or can be enjoyed as a light main course. Each selection emphasizes fresh ingredients and classic Italian flavors.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Minestrone Soup | Hearty vegetable soup with beans, pasta, and savory herbs. | $6.00 |
| Italian Wedding Soup | Classic broth with meatballs, greens, and tiny pasta. | $7.00 |
| Caesar Salad | Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing. | $8.00 |
| Mixed Green Salad | Fresh garden greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and house vinaigrette. | $7.50 |
| Spinach & Strawberry Salad | Fresh baby spinach, strawberries, walnuts, and poppy seed dressing. | $9.00 |
Main Courses
The heart of Chef Paolino Cafe’s menu lies in its main courses, which showcase traditional Italian dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From pasta classics to seafood specialties, the menu offers something for every taste.
Pasta Specialties
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti Carbonara | Classic Roman dish with eggs, pancetta, parmesan, and black pepper. | $16.00 |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | Rich and creamy parmesan sauce tossed with fettuccine noodles. | $15.00 |
| Lasagna Bolognese | Layers of pasta, meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella baked to perfection. | $18.00 |
| Penne Arrabbiata | Spicy tomato sauce with garlic and chili flakes over penne pasta. | $14.50 |
| Seafood Linguine | Linguine tossed with shrimp, clams, mussels, and a light white wine sauce. | $22.00 |
Entrées
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Marsala | Sauteed chicken breast with mushrooms in a Marsala wine sauce. | $20.00 |
| Veal Parmigiana | Breaded veal cutlet topped with marinara and melted mozzarella. | $22.00 |
| Eggplant Rollatini | Rolled eggplant stuffed with ricotta and spinach, baked with marinara. | $18.50 |
| Grilled Salmon | Fresh salmon grilled and served with a lemon butter sauce. | $24.00 |
| Osso Buco | Slow-braised veal shank in a rich tomato and vegetable sauce. | $28.00 |
Pizza Selection
Chef Paolino Cafe also features a variety of hand-tossed pizzas baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Each pizza is made with fresh dough, premium toppings, and house-made sauce.
| Pizza | Toppings | Size & Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margherita | Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. | 12″ – $14.00 | 16″ – $18.00 |
| Pepperoni | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni slices. | 12″ – $15.50 | 16″ – $19.50 |
| Vegetarian | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and olives. | 12″ – $16.00 | 16″ – $20.00 |
| Quattro Formaggi | Mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and ricotta cheeses. | 12″ – $17.00 | 16″ – $22.00 |
| BBQ Chicken | BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, red onions, and mozzarella. | 12″ – $17.50 | 16″ – $23.00 |
Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note with Chef Paolino’s selection of traditional Italian desserts. Each dessert is made in-house, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tiramisu | Classic layered espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream. | $7.00 |
| Cannoli | Crispy pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips. | $6.50 |
| Panna Cotta | Smooth vanilla cream dessert garnished with fresh berries. | $6.00 |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Warm chocolate cake with a gooey molten center, served with vanilla ice cream. | $8.00 |
| Gelato | House-made Italian ice cream available in assorted flavors. | $5.50 |
Beverages
Complement your meal with a variety of beverage options, including classic Italian drinks, wines, coffees, and soft drinks. Chef Paolino Cafe prides itself on a thoughtfully curated drink menu that pairs well with the cuisine.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso | Rich and bold Italian espresso shot. | $3.00 |
| Cappuccino | Espresso with steamed milk and frothy top. | $4.00 |
| House Red Wine | Selected Italian red wine, glass or bottle. | Glass $7.00 | Bottle $28.00 |
| House White Wine | Selected Italian white wine, glass or bottle. | Glass $7.00 | Bottle $28.00 |
| Italian Soda | Carbonated water with fruit syrup flavors. | $3.50 |
| Soft Drinks | Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and other selections. | $2.50 |
| Mineral Water | Still or sparkling bottled water. | $3.00 |
Specials & Seasonal Offerings
Chef Paolino Cafe frequently updates its menu to include seasonal specials and limited-time dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients. These specials often reflect the chef’s creativity and passion for Italian cuisine.
“Our seasonal specials allow us to bring the freshest flavors of Maryland to your table, combining local produce with authentic Italian recipes.” – Chef Paolino
Examples of recent specials have included:
- Spring Asparagus Risotto – Creamy Arborio rice with fresh asparagus, parmesan, and lemon zest.
- Winter Truffle Tagliatelle – Fresh pasta tossed with black truffle butter and shaved truffles.
- Summer Caprese Flatbread – Thin-crust flatbread topped with heirloom tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozzarella.
- Fall Pumpkin Gnocchi – Soft potato gnocchi with a sage brown butter sauce and toasted walnuts.
Dining Experience and Atmosphere
Chef Paolino Cafe is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination that invites guests to savor authentic Italian flavors in a cozy, welcoming environment. The interior design blends rustic Italian charm with modern comfort, making it ideal for family dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings.
The knowledgeable staff are passionate about guiding diners through the menu, providing recommendations on dishes and wine pairings. Chef Paolino’s commitment to quality and hospitality ensures every guest enjoys a memorable and satisfying meal.
Location & Contact Information
For those interested in visiting or placing an order, Chef Paolino Cafe is conveniently located in Catonsville, Maryland. The cafe offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options to accommodate various preferences.
| Address | 7628 Main Street, Catonsville, MD 21228 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (410) 744-1234 |
| Website | www.chefpaolinocafe.com |
| Hours | Monday–Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday–Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
Customer Reviews
Patrons consistently praise Chef Paolino Cafe for its authentic flavors, attentive service, and charming ambiance. Here are a few excerpts from recent reviews:
“Absolutely the best Italian food in Catonsville! The seafood linguine was fresh and flavorful, and the tiramisu was the perfect ending.” – Jennifer M.
“Cozy atmosphere and amazing staff. The veal parmigiana was tender and delicious.
Highly recommend for date night or family meals.” – Mark T.
“I love the variety on the menu and the fresh ingredients. The pizza was crispy and topped with generous portions.
Will definitely return!” – Emily R.
Summary
Chef Paolino Cafe in Catonsville, Maryland, offers a rich and varied menu rooted in authentic Italian culinary traditions. From appetizers to desserts, each dish is prepared with care and high-quality ingredients.
The inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Whether you crave classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, or indulgent desserts, Chef Paolino Cafe’s menu delivers a memorable Italian dining experience. Their commitment to freshness, flavor, and hospitality ensures that every visit is a celebration of Italian culture and cuisine.
Pro Tip: Reservations are recommended on weekends and holidays due to the cafe’s popularity. Don’t forget to try their seasonal specials for a unique taste adventure!
