Snagging a Friday night reservation for two at Little Donna’s feels like winning the lottery. Baltimore has few restaurants that diners need to book weeks in advance, but this 55-seat spot in Upper Fells Point is one of them; even at 9pm, every seat, including those at the bar, was taken.
If it feels like eating in someone’s home, that’s because it is: Chef owner Robbie Tutlewski and his family live upstairs. It’s a place where you gingerly slide into your seat so you don’t knock over your neighboring patron’s sparkling orange wine, but by the end of the meal, you’re engaged in conversation with them. The drink menu also features creative cocktails like Granny’s Meds, which is much more refreshing than it sounds. Yuzu adds a tart edge to gin, Lillet blanc, green tea, and honey in the refreshing summer tipple, Granny’s Meds. The wine list features a diverse selection, ranging from Italian Chiantis to Washington State Sauvignon Blanc, while local IPAs from regional breweries are well-represented on the beer list.
Two of the restaurant's specialties, pierogies and tavern-style pizzas, reflect Tutlewski’s Yugoslavian grandmother and his Midwestern upbringing. Topped with sautéed onions, sour cream, chives, and an ample topping of garlic chili crunch, the pierogies pack sour, crunchy, and spicy flavors in every bite. Using just a few, simple (but the freshest) ingredients, the pizzas’ thin, crispy crust is reminiscent of those found in Italy. Tangy and aromatic tomato sauce, topped with garlic and a generous heap of basil, overflowed from their signature tomato pie onto the plate. While you won’t miss the cheese, Little Donna’s offers several options with it, including the four-cheese, white pizza dubbed the summertime pie. Flecks of Maldon sea salt add a surprising pop of flavor that brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
The vibe: A blend of Midwest and Eastern European indulgences in a distinctly Baltimore setting.
The food: Pierogies and tavern pies made with the freshest ingredients.
The drink: Eclectic selection of cocktails, beer, and wine.
Time Out tip: If you don’t have reservations, arrive right when they open to get on their walk-in list.