Spring Has Sprung at Ristorante LUCCA — And Eric Scott Loves the New Seasonal Menu

Chef Andrea at Ristorante LUCCA is an Italian culinary savant, and that's very apparent in his spring/summer menu.

So many dishes feature bright colors and fresh, seasonal produce at peak flavor. Think lobster ravioli with yellow cherry tomatoes, Fusilli with mixed vegetable ragù, strawberry lobster salad with arugula and strawberry vinaigrette, and risotto with mini burrata and yellow tomato basil sauce. Of course, that's just a small sample.

I have had the pleasure of being in the kitchen with Chef Andrea, and I can tell you without hesitation that expert precision and commitment to the craft are apparent in every dish they make.

In fact, it's clear in every detail throughout the restaurant. The second you open that front door, you're transported into a high-end, relaxed atmosphere where no detail is overlooked, from pasta made in-house daily to the distinctive decor. They even have live music with dinner.

See the full dinner menu, along with the lunch and happy hour menus, at Ristorante LUCCA's website. During happy hour, cocktails, beer, and wine are half-priced, and the bar features a discounted menu.

And don't forget, each Sunday they offer a traditional Italian Sunday family dinner:

• Garden salad and bread
• Meat and cheese board
• Spaghetti or rigatoni with ragu
• Meatballs, Italian sausages, and braciole
• Dessert: Tiramisu, mini cannolis, and ice cream

It's $49 per person, while children 10 and younger cost $19, excluding beverages and alcohol. I loved seeing all the families and listeners the last time I was a guest host. It's the perfect way to enjoy family and let someone else worry about the cooking and the dishes!

To make a reservation or explore the menus, visit ristorantelucca.com.