The RDU Buzz

By Madeline Cook

Caffe Luna

It seems that cozy season is finally upon us here in Raleigh!  Cooler temperatures have me craving warm comfort food without exception, and that typically means…. pasta!  The Triangle is no stranger to delicious Italian cuisine, lots of which can be found through the doors of trendy, modern joints that are relatively new to the area.  For as much as I love being an early adopter to a blossoming food scene, living (and eating!) in Raleigh has taught me to never discount the time-tested favorites.  That’s what led me to the charming Caffe Luna the other night!

At the intersection of Hargett and Blount street in downtown Raleigh, kitty-corner from Marbles Kids Museum, the warm glow of Caffe Luna lights up the sidewalk.  Raleigh local, Parker Kennedy opened this Italian-Tuscan eatery in 1996… nearly 30 years ago! Stepping foot inside the restaurant, the atmosphere is one of laughter and delight as friends gather, families reconnect, and the walls tell of a rich history of celebrations past.

Years of refining and honing the craft of Italian cuisine are detected with each bite of creamy, silky pasta.  If a classic spaghetti is what comes to mind when you think of Italian food, prepare to be amazed!  Though I’m sure Caffe Luna boasts a killer spaghetti, have you ever savored fresh pasta stuffed with Italian cheeses and pear!? That’s right!  Sautéed in a white cream sauce with tomato, Caffe Luna’s “Fiocchi” might be the yummiest Italian concoction I’ve tried!  On the other hand, the Lasagne arrives piled high with grated parmesan atop layers of pasta and ragu bolognese.  It’s as pretty as it is delicious!

The dessert and wine menus could warrant their own post!  But I’d be remiss to not mention the espresso-soaked tiramisu with delicate layers that simply dissolved with each bite.  Or the classic Philadelphia-style cheesecake which satisfied my sweet tooth perfectly.  As a major dessert lover, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I could enjoy any one of these sweet treats for under $8.00.

Did I mention that Caffe Luna knows how to throw a party?  For bridal showers, corporate events and rehearsal dinners, choose from three private rooms that accommodate up to 100 guests.  I can’t picture a more inviting place to gather with loved ones over fantastic cuisine, and might need to check it out for my next family reunion!

Can’t wait to hear what you order when you visit Caffe Luna at 36 East Hargett Street in Downtown Raleigh.  Cheers!