Welcome to Betty Lou's
Betty Lou's, nestled in Pasadena, MD, offers an inviting taste of Louisiana-inspired cuisine. This charming restaurant is celebrated for its warm atmosphere and attentive service, making every visit feel special. Highlight dishes, like the creamy chicken pot pie and flavorful Shrimp and Grits, showcase a perfect blend of comfort and artistry. Their Seared Scallops over creamed corn and Blood Orange bacon jam delight with bold flavors, while the Gimlet paired with the Green Pavlova elevates the dining experience. Betty Lou's is not just a meal; it's a celebration of Southern culture and culinary passion, making it a must-visit gem for food enthusiasts.
- 33 Magothy Beach Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122, United States33 Magothy Beach Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122, United States Hotline: +1 443-305-2173
Welcome to Betty Lou's, a charming culinary haven nestled in Pasadena, Maryland. This delightful restaurant elegantly marries the flavors of Louisiana home cooking with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a cozy Southern embrace. A true gem in the neighborhood, Betty Lou’s is dedicated to crafting dishes that celebrate the richness of New Orleans-inspired comfort food while showcasing locally-sourced ingredients.
Guests rave about dishes like the Shrimp and Grits — a must-try for seafood lovers — and the Chicken Pot Pie, celebrated for its creamy filling and flaky, buttery crust. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, embodying comfort food at its best. You'll also find Pork Belly Rillions — a harmonious blend of rich flavors and textures that leave a lasting impression. Reviewers consistently highlight the impressive attention to detail, ensuring every dish is not only delicious but beautifully plated.
Among the standout offerings is the Smoked Trout Dip, served with homemade chips, a perfect opener that whets the appetite. Vegetarians will appreciate the Jerk Cauliflower with West African peanut sauce, a flavorful and innovative dish that showcases Betty Lou’s commitment to variety and inclusion in its menu.
The dining experience is elevated here, augmented by an impressive selection of expertly-curated cocktails. Guests have praised cocktails such as the Old Fashioned and the refreshing Forager Gin Gimlet, which perfectly complement the meal. The meticulous pairing of food and drink reflects the restaurant's dedication to providing a holistic dining experience.
The team at Betty Lou’s is known for their attentiveness and genuine passion for the culinary craft, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like home every time you step through the door. Whether you’re indulging in dessert, where dishes like the delightful Heath Bar Bread Pudding await, or savoring an elegant fifth course, every detail is meticulously attended to.
So if you're in search of exceptional Southern comfort food with a unique twist, make Betty Lou's your next dining destination. It’s the kind of place that promises not just a meal, but a memorable experience that will have you coming back for more—definitely worth the trip, and remember to make a reservation!

We visited Betty Lou’s for the first time for dinner tonight and I had to write this review because I still can’t believe how absolutely amazing the experience was. If you love Louisiana home cooking then it’s a must visit. I shared a photo of the shrimp ettoufee which was scrumptious- so full of flavor, and 2 photos of the chicken pot pie which I will be dreaming about for a very long time. The crust!!!! OMG!!! And the flavor of the chicken and vegetables were perfection! Actually took enough home for a second meal - which makes me so happy . We had way more food with our table of 6 and everyone was 100% satisfied. The Heath bar and Rocky Road bread puddings were so light and fluffy with fresh whipped cream on top. The team serving us were all fabulous and attentive. Please go support Betty Lou’s in Pasadena. It is worth the trip no matter how far - we came in from Ellicott City and would return in a heartbeat. Best to make reservations!!!

Betty Lou’s McClintock Cocktail Dinner was an unforgettable experience! From the moment we walked in, the warm and intimate atmosphere set the stage for an evening of exceptional dining and perfectly curated cocktails. Each course was a masterpiece, thoughtfully crafted with fresh, vibrant ingredients. The seared scallop with blood orange bacon jam was a bold and delicious opener, followed by the rich and flaky salmon Wellington that melted in my mouth. The lamb sausage dish was beautifully complemented by the pistachio pesto tagliatelle, and the seared duck breast with maitake mushrooms was absolutely divine. To end on a high note, the pavlova paired with the Forager Gin gimlet was a refreshing and elegant finale. The cocktails were just as impressive as the food, each expertly mixed to enhance the flavors of the dishes. The Blood Orange Eclipse and Bourbon on Broadway were standout favorites, perfectly balanced and packed with depth. Service was flawless—attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the menu. Every detail, from the presentation to the perfectly paired drinks, showed the care and creativity behind this event. The added touch of supporting tree planting made the night even more special. If you have the chance to attend one of these dinners, don’t hesitate—this was a five-star experience through and through! #McClintockDistilling #GimletsForGreenMaryland

If you enjoy southern, Louisiana-inspired cuisine, get to Betty Lou's. The restaurant is cozy and warm, and the staff is very friendly. The chicken pot pie featured a savory, creamy filling encased in a crisp, buttery crust. The po'boy featured large, perfectly fried and seasond shrimp and a classic remoulade. For sides, the brussel sprouts were excellent, with crisp edges and just a little sweetness. The baked mac and cheese was rich and savory beneath a broiled topping for a great texture contrast. Definitely a hidden gem in Pasadena perfect for a date night.

It is a quaint little restaurant with a definitely Louisiana feel. Food was served on china! We stopped in for lunch and mocktails. Restaurant was not very busy. Food was good. Server was very friendly. Definitely not a chain restaurant. We added the place to our local favorites.

Stepping into Betty Lou's feels like being welcomed into a warm Southern embrace. This charming restaurant has quickly become a go to. The menu at Betty Lou's is a delightful blend of New Orleans-inspired comfort food and locally-sourced ingredients. Highlight dishes include the Shrimp and Grits—an absolute must-try for any seafood lover—and the delectable Shrimp Po Boy, which offers a perfect balance of crunchy and succulent. The Pork Belly Rigorti highly recommended for their rich flavors and satisfying textures. Betty Lou's doesn't just shine in the food department; the drinks are equally impressive. The Old Fashioned is expertly crafted, providing a nostalgic yet refreshing. The friendly and attentive staff add to the overall welcoming vibe, making every visit feel special. Whether you're planning a special night out or a laid-back meal with friends, Betty Lou's provides a memorable dining experience that's hard to beat. It's a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional Southern comfort food with a distinctive flair. spot for both locals and visitors.

Betty Lou’s is amazing! Total scratch kitchen, with food that transports you to New Orleans! Flavors and spices are done perfectly. Everyone that works there are so nice, and engaging. Atmosphere is beautiful, yet it’s a casual spot. Their upscale signature cocktails are so good as well! Go check them out!! Make a reservation, because they fill up quick.

The menu is trip of great Southern dishes with some traditional and some twists included, prepared like a much more expensive restaurant. Personal, casual and friendly atmosphere, we went back 3 times the first week we were taken there. We’ve visited several times since, absolutely love the biscuits and sausage gravy, smoked trout dip, Shrimp and grits cakes, the catfish po’boy and the pork po’boy, the shrimp etoufee, Mac’n’cheese, and collards (and I don’t usually like collards :) all were perfectly prepared. Full compliment of entrees too, but we’re still on the first side of the menu with apps and handhelds, our new favorite eating out place. They have controlled open hours, check their site, and I suggest reservations for dinner. They also have an expanded Sunday brunch, enjoy!

I've spent a lot of time dining along the Gulf Coast, and Betty Lou’s is the real deal, an unassuming little kitchen with quality coastal cuisine. It’s a cozy, quiet place that makes you feel right at home. First, let’s talk about the sides, which in Southern cooking are as important as the main dish. The dirty rice is soft, savory, and has the correct rice-to-meat ratio, which is why their boudin balls are also so good. The greens are tender and full of smoky turkey. The mac and cheese is creamy and served casserole-style. The Brussel sprouts are crispy and delicious. Now on to the mains. The gumbo is deeply flavored with shrimp, chicken, and smoked sausage. The braised short ribs are tender and have a delicious brown gravy. And the fried blue catfish is a super-sized filet with a crispy thin batter. If you get here on a Wednesday, the fried chicken is moist and crispy. All of the appetizers were unique and executed with the same care and quality ingredients as the main dishes. I also had a chance to sip a few cocktails, all excellent, and the beer selection is inspired and locally-sourced. I’m looking forward to my next few visits so I can try everything on the menu!