Some foods instantly bring you back to summer at the beach, and for me, Grotto Pizza is one of those places. There’s something about the combination of sun, sand, and pizza that just feels like the perfect beach weekend.
Even though I didn’t make it down to Ocean City this past Memorial Day weekend, I still managed to enjoy one of my favorite beach traditions thanks to Grotto Pizza’s Columbia location.
Grotto Pizza
While you won’t find ocean views in Columbia, the restaurant still captures some of that classic beach pizza nostalgia. With outdoor seating and warm weather, it’s easy to imagine you’re just steps away from the boardwalk.

Grotto Pizza
A Simple Caesar Salad to Start
We started lunch with a Caesar Salad, which was simple but satisfying.
Sometimes a straightforward salad is exactly what you want before diving into pizza, and this one did the job perfectly.

Caesar Salad
Crispy Fries with Malt Vinegar
Next up was an order of fries, which of course had to be paired with malt vinegar.
If you’ve spent any time at the beach, you know fries with vinegar are practically mandatory. These were crispy and salty, and the vinegar added that perfect tangy bite.

Fries
Classic Pepperoni Pizza
The real reason we came to Grotto Pizza was for the pizza itself.
The pie had a thin crust with a nice chew, topped with classic thin slices of pepperoni arranged in the signature Grotto style. It’s simple, nostalgic, and exactly what you want when you’re craving classic beach pizza.

Pepperoni Pizza
House-Made Gelato for Dessert
Of course, we couldn’t leave without dessert.
We each ordered two scoops of house-made gelato. I went with chocolate and caramel, while my friend chose wintermint and mint chip.
It was a cool, refreshing way to end the meal — and the perfect finish to a pizza lunch.

Gelato
Planning a Visit
Grotto Pizza is located at 7075 Minstrel Way in Columbia, Maryland
There’s also another Central Maryland location at The Village at Waugh Chapel – 2404 Brandermill Blvd., Gambrills, MD
If you’re craving beach-style pizza without the drive to the shore, this is a great spot to relive those Ocean City pizza memories.
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More Pizza Spots to Try
If you love pizza in Maryland, here are a few other places I’ve visited that are worth adding to your list:
- Squisito Pizza + Pasta – a great casual spot for New York-style pizza, baked pastas, and garlic knots.
- Carpaccio in Annapolis – a fantastic Italian restaurant serving grandma-style pizza and classic pasta dishes.
- Manor Hill Tavern – a popular Ellicott City restaurant known for wood-fired pizza paired with Manor Hill craft beer.
Each of these spots offers a different style of pizza but delivers equally satisfying bites.
Looking for a place to eat? Check out Rachel’s Baltimore Restaurant List.
While this meal was paid for by Grotto Pizza, all opinions stated here are my own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grotto Pizza
Where is Grotto Pizza located in Maryland?
Grotto Pizza has locations in Columbia and Gambrills, in addition to its well-known beach locations in Delaware and Ocean City.
What style of pizza does Grotto Pizza serve?
Grotto Pizza is known for its thin crust pizza with signature spiral sauce and classic toppings.
What are popular menu items at Grotto Pizza?
Favorites include pepperoni pizza, fries with malt vinegar, Caesar salad, and gelato.
Is Grotto Pizza the same as the one at the beach?
Yes. The Columbia location serves the same classic Grotto Pizza recipes you’ll find at their beach locations.
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Categories: Howard County, Restaurant Reviews

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