Gambero Rosso, an Italian food and wine magazine that was founded in 1986, has been publishing its restaurant guide since 1990. The guide, Ristoranti d’Italia, describes the best Italian restaurants across the world. For each place it attributes a rating from 60 to 100 and, only for the best restaurants, a number of forchette (‘forks’) ranging from 1 to 3. Only one Italian restaurant from Maryland has ever earned a forchette (fork)— IL Pizzico in Rockville earned una forchetta/one fork (video of the experience available below).
The story of Il Pizzico began in the late 80’s, when founders Enzo & Sandra started their journey to open up their very own restaurant. After scouting different locations, they happily settled in Rockville, MD, and opened up a small deli in 1990. “Unlike how most delis run, people did not want to order food for take out, rather they wanted to sit in and enjoy their meal.” IL Pizzico shares on their website. Then in 1992 and 1994, opportunities came to expand their establishment into a full dine-in restaurant with a full bar. As the years have passed by, small cosmetic updates have been made to the restaurant, but the food and family-like atmosphere have stayed the same. For over 30 years now, Enzo and Sandra have continued their dreams and have served many hungry customers.
Gambero Rosso writes, “Authentic Italian recipes, ranging from meat to seafood, and a vast range of fresh homemade pastas in a modern trattoria-style ambiance. At Il Pizzico owner Enzo Livia has imported from his home many recipes to Washington. Tortelloni with porcini mushrooms or the Cacio e Pepe is a must.” Located in an assuming space at 15209 Frederick Rd, right by Gude Dr., the restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in the Mid-Atlantic.
The name Il Pizzico literally means “The Pinch”. It describes the culinary belief of founder Enzo Livia. “To serve Italian food a wise chef must begin with authentic recipes and then add the right pinch of herbs and spices to give his personal touch to the dish.” The menu features a varied selection of seafood, meats and a vast selection of home made pastas. Most desserts are home made as well. The mainly Italian wine list offers wines from different regions to complement your dining experience . “Appetizers range from $8 to $16 and our main courses go from $20 to $36. We at Il Pizzico offer a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience and encourage our guests a smart casual dress code.”