Luca Osteria in Coral Gables has been one of the tougher reservations to snag lately. After finally dining here, it's easy to see why. The food, the service, and the cozy, unpretentious atmosphere all come together in a way that feels both special and familiar.
It's no surprise that Luca has earned its place on The Infatuation's list of Miami's best Italian restaurants, and best places to eat here in general. Helmed by Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli, the space delivers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. It reminds me of the previous iteration of Eating House, but now with a focus on elevated Italian dining.
We sat indoors, where the ambiance is warm, inviting, and electric. There's a buzz in the room with how close the tables are together, but it never felt chaotic. The energy was great and everyone was having a good time. The service was warm and friendly, with a team that clearly knows the menu inside and out.
Here's what we ordered based on their suggestions:
Cocktail:
Negroni Sour ($17) - made with Campari, Antica vermouth, Bombay gin, and citrus. This is a refreshing, playful take on the classic Negroni with a citrus-forward taste profile. Balanced, smooth, and still just the right amount of bitter. I'm not a "normal" Negroni guy, but this particular iteration won me over.
Appetizer:
Patate Fritte ($27) - Truffled potatoes, Parmigiano fonduta, and egg yolk. This is the dish Luca is most known for, and it absolutely lives up to the hype. Rich, creamy, and intensely flavorful, it's indulgent in the best way and worth coming here for on its own.
Pastas:
Short Rib Bolognese ($39) - My wife's entrée choice. Pappardelle pasta, mortadella butter, nutmeg, and 24-month Parmigiano. The definition of a comfort food, the slow-cooked short rib practically melted into the perfectly al dente pappardelle. The mortadella butter added a silky richness that made the dish unforgettable.
Bucatini all'Amatriciana ($37) - My entrée choice. Prosciutto di Parma, semi-dried tomato, and housemade chili oil. This pasta dish was vibrant, spicy, and very savory. The bucatini had the perfect bite, and the heat from the chili oil played beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the saltiness of the prosciutto. There was a lot going on here, and for the better!
Dessert:
Anto's Tiramisu ($14) - made with Mascarpone and Marsala. Light, airy, and not overly sweet. We usually judge Italian restaurants by their Tiramisu's, and are happy to report Luca Osteria passed the test here. A perfect finish to our meal.
Evidently, Luca Osteria was a hidden gem that's not so hidden anymore. It's growing popularity is completely justified. Despite the hype, it maintains a laid-back charm that makes you want to stay and savor every course. Its dishes, especially the Palate Fritte and pastas, are cooked with precision and soul. It's one of the best dining experiences we've had in Coral Gables and beyond lately. read more