Bites Nearby: Pasta Cravings

Pasta is one of those things that comes in various shapes and sizes. You can throw almost anything on a pile of noodles and it'll taste good. To an amateur chef like me, it just keeps me from starving.

Really, you could technically eat pasta every day in a different variation for a month and still try something new. It's cheap, delicious and always fills you up.

Thankfully, local restaurants put more effort into their pasta than I do, that's why I and other local Patch editors throughout the region have highlighted some hot-spots to satisfy your noodle cravings. 

Broadneck—Located in Arnold Station,  is a family-run restaurant with Italian its blood. If you're looking for some authentic Italian pasta dishes, Bella Italia has you covered. Owned by Guen Assante and her father, the family hails from Naples, Italy, and they've been bringing Arnold some of the best Italian in the entire region for over three years. Bella Italia also boasts traditional pizza as well as gourmet versions, all of which use fresh ingredients. The fresh tomato and basil is a favorite. 

Annapolis——This long-time Parole deli is a great place to break for lunch with fresh pastas and other Italian dishes. One of the best parts is picking up a bag of freshly-made pasta for home.

Severna Park– not only serves up many different varieties of pizza, but it is a pasta lover’s delight, especially on Tuesdays when you will find the restaurant packed with locals for the Pasta Day Special. Buy any entree, and get a Pasta Lover's Entree for only $3.99 (of equal or lesser value). The Fettuccini Carbonara is on the lunch and dinner menu—superb!

Pasadena—If you are looking for some great Italian food in Pasadena, look no further than Bella Napoli on Mountain Road.

Bella Napoli was voted best Italian Restaurant in 2009, according to its website, and the pastas do not disappoint. Try the chicken parmigianino served over spaghetti, topped with delicious tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese and your Italian craving will be cured.