Luca Osteria Pays Tribute to Giorgio Rapicavoli’s Italian Roots

The man behind one of Coral Gables’ longtime favorite restaurants, Eating House, has expanded his presence in the neighborhood with the opening of Luca Osteria and Bar (116 Giralda Ave.), debuting late last month.

The restaurant channels restaurateur Giorgio Rapicavoli’s Italian background, serving up his interpretation of classic dishes. Think dishes like crudo di pesce with blood orange olive oil, celery and grapefruit; pappardelle with beef short rib ‘bolognese’, mortadella butter, and nutmeg; grilled monkfish with ‘Bagna Cauda,’ grilled fennel, Castelvetrano olive; and bistecca for two made of a 28-ounce prime bone-in strip, patate fritte, and smoked olive oil.

The restaurant also boasts a wine program featuring traditional and natural wines, alongside and extensive aperitivi and cocktail list. Some of the Italian-influenced cocktails include the Portofino made with Grey Goose vodka, green olive vermouth, and Sicilian olive oil, Emilia made with Aberfeldy 12, Amaro Montenegro, Ambrato, Chinotto, and lambrusco, and Costiera made with Grey Goose citron, Pallini limoncello, mint, and prosecco, among others.

Luca is housed on the newly revamped, pedestrian-friendly Giralda Avenue in Coral Gables. It boasts a black and white dining room and custom-built L-shaped bar with Moroccan tiles and mirrors. Outside there’s expansive outdoor seating with plenty of globe lights illuminating the courtyard.

The restaurant is now open for dinner from 6 to 11 p.m. on Tuesday through Thursday, and Sunday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information call 305-381-5097.