Stellini's Pasta Gusto, 224 O'Neil Court: 2000s 4 comments
Stellini's was on the corner nearest to Columbia Mall at The Shops at O'Neil Court. I believe it was perhaps the longest lasting restaurant in that little hard-luck plaza, though as I recall the sports bar run by the Very's folks lasted a number of years as well.
This ad from the 1998 Bellsouth yellow pages claims the largest selection of pasta in Columbia. I actually can't remember much about that. If I am remembering correctly, the times we went there, what most impressed me was the garlic bread, which was strong and gooey, not that "hint of garlic on overbaked toast" thing some places do. I do think they had a number of pesto dishes which weren't too common at the time, but while I might try one now, at that point I was still fully in tomato-based mode.
I don't think business was ever great in this location despite theoretical drive-by traffic between Columbia Mall and Two Notch, and I wasn't too surprised when the place closed. I believe at least two other restaurants tried the spot (there was definitely one) but nothing ever lasted long-term, and currently the space is empty and available.
4 Responses to 'Stellini's Pasta Gusto, 224 O'Neil Court: 2000s'
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Dennis
31 Mar 10 at 11:21 am
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Yeah, I thought it was good, too. It was the first place I ever ate with the open kitchen concept. There was another pasta place there but I can't remember the name. Would have been there up to around 2000-ish? It's across from the bingo parlor that used to Garcia's Mexican Rest.
Natalie
27 Sep 10 at 12:32 am
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My wife and I ate there quite a few times, and really enjoyed the place. As mentioned, it had a nice hubbub kind of atmosphere, and the food was definitely savory. We were sad to see it go, and if I remember correctly, it closed kind of abruptly.
Blaine
26 Aug 11 at 1:01 pm
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Stellini’s was a wonderful place to get a great wholesome meal at an affordable price. I truly miss that restaurant immensely not only working there but also enjoying the many pasta dishes and specials. Stellini’s was always busy and people came from not only in this area but from out of state to eat there. It was a wonderful gathering place to dine and catch up with family and friends.
Joey
24 Jul 22 at 7:04 pm
I liked Stellini's.
My remembrances of it are that it was a busy, noisy place -- in a good way -- where you'd rub elbows with your neighbors.
Very tasty food. You'd definitely come out of there smelling like a garlic. It would still be in business if they had chosen a better location, such as Trenholm Plaza or Devine St..