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Rocco’s Old School Italian & Wine Bar: A new sit-down spot has entered a radius of mostly fast-casual eateries off of Joppa Road in Towson. The massive menu at the dimly lit bistro leans heavy into American-Italian classics, with loaded pastas including Lasagna Mama Mia, fettuccine Bolognese, stuffed shells, and linguine in clam sauce. There’s also an entire section dedicated to parms in the form of chicken, veal, eggplant, or shrimp. Lunch specials and a generous happy hour from 3-6 p.m. (boasting $4-off cocktails, $3-off wine, and half-priced apps) make this a place to try for professionals working in the area, too.
Ekiben: Frederick, this is not a drill. Today marks the opening of Ekiben’s first non-Baltimore City location at 500 N. Market Street in Downtown Frederick, bringing the total tally for the beloved Asian-fusion eatery to four brick-and-mortars. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m., and to celebrate—in their classic community-appreciation style—the team is offering one free menu item per person to diners who show up for opening day…