Have you ever found yourself passing by a place countless times, always curious to give it a try? This was my experience with Luna Pasta e Dolci at 6927 Biscayne Blvd.
Their distinctive round yellow sign and the tantalizing word “pasta” in their name never failed to catch my eye, given my deep love for pasta. This charming, family-owned establishment has been a fixture in the area for quite some time.
Luna Pasta e Dolci serves artisanal fresh pasta, showcasing both traditional favourites and innovative creations by chef Gabriel Medici. Just a short walk south of the restaurant, they have a takeout shop offering delightful products you can re-create at home. The restaurant itself exudes a cozy and casual atmosphere, with seating for about 60 guests. It occupies the former Michy’s restaurant space, featuring an open kitchen at the back and a welcoming bar at the front. The place is a blend of terrazzo floors, wooden furniture, bright yellow leatherette banquets, and charming white-washed brick walls. The ambiance is enhanced by a carefully curated music playlist in the background.
By 7:30 the restaurant fills up, providing a delightful neighborhood dining experience for couples and families alike. And let’s not forget to mention the exceptionally good-looking and friendly waitstaff, adding to the overall charm of the place. While they have a pizza oven used mostly for happy hour between 4-6 pm, Luna Pasta e Dolci is primarily known for its pasta offerings.
Surprisingly, they also serve excellent empanadas, a nod to the Italian heritage of many Argentinians. These empanadas are truly exceptional, with a selection ranging from lamb to chicken, ham and cheese, spinach and cheese, and beef. Served piping hot and incredibly flaky and tender, they’re a must-try. Additionally, each table receives a small bag of their homemade delicious focaccia paired with a smoky eggplant dip, setting the tone for the meal.
Their menu boasts a variety of sandwiches, antipasti, and second courses, but their real star is their pasta selection. From classic pappardelle with tomato and mozzarella to indulgent dishes like ricotta ravioli to fettuccini bolognese, ricotta ravioli, beef lasagna to bucatini carbonara to a black linguine shrimp fra diavolo. We also savoured a dish called The Golden Plate, a ricotta and truffle tortelloni with mixed mushrooms, truffle, and demi glaze cream sauce. Every dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and tastes like your grandma made it (If your Grandma was an excellent cook).
To complement the meal, Luna Pasta e Dolci offers a diverse wine list featuring selections from Italy, France, California, New Zealand, Argentina, and Portugal. With around 15 options available by the glass, there is something to please every palate.
Save room for dessert because there is a tempting array of homemade treats accompanied by a nice selection of coffee options. I indulged in an almond apple tart served with homemade vanilla gelato and a fresh blueberry sauce, a delightful conclusion to a satisfying meal.
In summary, Luna Pasta e Dolci has all the makings of a beloved gem that could easily become a regular dining destination.
Happy dining,
Shanea
02/22/2024
