THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Luigi’s Cucina Italiana

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Luigi’s Cucina Italiana Restaurant Review:

Chef-owner Luigi Ferre’s eponymous eatery is tucked away on a small side street in the River Oaks area. It’s a charming, cozy building with wood beams, faux brick walls and prints of classic Italian paintings. While the menu boasts many Tuscan specialties, like slow-cooked osso buco with fresh herbs or tagliatelle with sausage, the real draws are the homey and hearty classic Italian-American dishes: think spaghetti and meatballs and meaty lasagnas. A lunch menu offers meals priced from $14 to $18 that come with warm rolls and a house salad that can be upgraded to a Caesar. Personal pizzas are made with house-made dough, while the standout pollo piccata features tender chicken drenched in a lemony sauce topped with capers. We also suggest the side of penne swathed in a creamy vodka sauce. A nice wine list showcases many reasonably priced Italians, while a glass of limoncello pairs well with the creamy gelatos. Friendly service is a bonus.