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IF you are looking for a good pasta spot, this is the place to go! Hidden in a small window on the side of the street is Luce! Through the window you can order with the cooks and your order will come out super fast. The workers were honestly so friendly and they made sure to carefully stuff all of the food into the box. As for the food itself, I got a Bolo and honestly it had my jaw on the floor! It was one of the best Pasta place i've ever been to and I honestly would come again!
This tiny kitchen is serving happiness in the form of comfort food! My husband and I were looking for a place to order takeout and Luce blew us away. The housemade noodles and sauces are incredible. We ordered the bolognese, the alfredo with meatballs, a kale caesar with confit tomatoes and a slice of almond cheesecake. Everything was so good and we had enough pasta to re-heat the next day - it tasted just as delicious. The space is too small to accomodate dining in but, take it from me, you do not want to pass them by!
This was probably the worst Italian food I have ever had. I have had crispier pizza from a microwave. The dough was under cooked and sopping wet. The entire meal was completely devoid of anything resembling flavor. The pasta was watery and tasted of nothing. I was so excited to try this place, but honestly it was incredibly bad. I have had jars pasta sauces with more flavor. Completely not worth it an was severely disappointed.
Cute hole in the wall (literally) made to order pasta spot. Noodles were so bouncing and tasty even though we ate them 30 mins after getting them. Cooking time was so quick we barely waited 10 mins. Overall would def come again!
Luce never misses! Possibly my favorite place to eat in all of Charlottesville. Easy to-go pasta made fresh and fast in a literal hole in the wall. They only have a few items on their rotating menu but they really shine on each of them -- pastas, pizzas, salads, desserts. I especially enjoy The Bolo pasta (pappardelle, ragu, topped with parmesan and bread crumbs). Simply the best!
Great pasta place. I walked up, ordered and got my food to go. No fuss, no muss. Pasta and sauce came in a 16oz cup. I opened it up, and it smelled amazing, and tasted better - as did every bite til the last! There wasn't a line but a consistent line of customers walked up after ordering online and quickly picked up their goods to take and enjoy. Quick and friendly service. They helped me order, and they didn't go wrong. I will prob be back one more time before I leave C'Ville at the end of the week to try out something different. Recommend.
Amazing, fresh pasta. Service is so fast! Be sure to check their Instagram or ask for specials that aren't on the menu. Their steak stroganoff was so rich, creamy, and fragrant! Their cacio e Pepe is also excellent. Pasta is always cooked perfectly to not be soggy after ~20 minute drive home. So worth finding parking by the downtown mall to pick it up! This is my go-to for Italian in Cville.
The food is great! I ordered the fettuccine and really liked it, but I was disappointed when I saw there were only two meatballs. It's also a bit pricey for the amount of food you get. I'm glad I tried it though bc it was delish! The service was quick, which is great since the location feels a little sketchy. For those that don't know, Luce is just a window that you order at, so all meals are to-go.
Such a cute find! A tiny store front ordering window with to-go only pasta. Their menu is nice and short, we chose from 4 different pastas. They also have a salad option, a family option, and a dessert! We tried the caccio e pepe, fettuccine with vodka sauce and meatballs, and a bolognese. All pastas were good but the bolognese was easily the best. All noodles were cooked perfectly al dente and it was perfect as a pre-flight meal before heading out of the city!
Came here spontaneously looking for somewhere to eat after leaving Carter Mountain Orchard with my friend. Found this spot on Yelp that I also remembered seeing a video for. Luce is a charming little window that serves fresh homemade pasta. As we scanned the menu, people who walked by expressed how good it was. I ordered the Fett which has fettuccine in a vodka sauce with pork meatballs. I asked for another recommendation from the woman who took my order, and she said I should get the Bolo which has a pork ragu over pappardelle. This pasta was a pleasant surprise. It was fresh, savory, and full of flavor. We also ordered a spicy pepperoni pizza which was super tasty as well. A month later I decided to go on another trip to Charlottesville, this time just myself. I had to make sure I made another stop here and had to order pasta to bring back for my friend who came with me the first time as well as some to share with my family. Just like the last time the staff were super friendly and worked quickly. I ordered 6 pastas, and all were done in 10 minutes. In addition to the Fett and the Bolo, I tried the Cacio and the Pistou which had zucchini, and pesto. Both were yummy but the Fett and Bolo are still my favorites. Overall, I highly recommend giving this window a visit and ordering what compels you.
My kids really enjoyed the garlic parmesan sticks, served piping hot and full of flavor. They were able to make us pappardelle with just marinara sauce for the kids. The pasta was fine, I'm sure great if ordered as is off the menu.
Luce is a cute little walk-up restaurant where you order takeout from the window. They're located at the Downtown Mall on one of the side streets that crosses through the promenade. They specialize in pasta and pizza but have a few other menu items such as salad, bread sticks, and cheesecake. I ordered the fettuccine which contained pork and beef meatballs along with fettuccine noodles tossed in a red vodka sauce and topped with toasted breadcrumbs and parmesan. The pasta was fresh and the sauce smooth. I felt it could've used some salt and red pepper flakes, but I devoured the whole thing as it was because there was something intriguing about the simplicity of the flavors. The meatballs, however, did contain more spices and herbs than the sauce. I definitely enjoyed them but they weren't anything to rave about. I also ordered the kale caesar salad which included tomatoes and was also topped with toasted breadcrumbs and parmesan. The salad could've used more herbs in the dressing which was bland, but it gave you and opportunity to appreciate the freshness of the ingredients. There are a few patio tables on the side of the building, but they don't seem to be wiped down very often or they perhaps get a lot of traffic, but one table had bird droppings on it, so this would be a good spot to grab takeout on the way home.
I was visiting Charlottesville for the week and was told by multiple people to try Luce, and it certainly did not disappoint!! We originally ordered for pick up, but as soon as we saw the outdoor seating we decided to stay. You order online and they'll bring your order out either to the pick up table or straight to your table. We got the Cacio, Bolo, and kale salad. At first I thought the portion sizes were a bit small, but it was surprisingly filling. However, if you do have a big appetite, just one pasta will probably not do it for you. I really liked the Cacio while my boyfriend enjoyed the bolo (but both were solid choices). Everything was so delicious and fresh. The cheesecake was also pretty good, I really liked the crust. If I lived in the area I can definitely see myself frequenting this shop! read more
Ate here with my wife, we both got the fettuccini with meatballs and were very pleased with it. There were three big meatballs in it and the pasta was flavorful and seasoned well. My one qualm is the way they take orders and say when the food is ready is not efficient and takes a long time. read more
3 years ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
Every time I find this place again in my periphery I'm amazed as to what they do here. It's a small business, both in the literal and economic sense. Its no chain, and they don't pretend to be. In a world dominated by mass pasta creation in the food business, Luce, time and time again has proven that small batches and dishes reign supreme in quality. Their portions aren't tiny but they aren't titanic either. The pricing isn't great but for the quality of the food, I would pay it every time. I never think of "pasta" as a light meal but if you were to suggest Luce I would agree with you. The namesake fits this business well. The noodles are springy and fresh, the sauces are well balanced, never drowning the pasta or the toppings inside. When your dish is effectively, pasta, sauce, and the occasional meatball, every part of your dish must be brought to the highest level. There is nowhere to hide in simplicity but Luce does these three things well. I highly suggest anyone who loves pasta to give this place a try! The care that goes into each dish here is remarkable. I'm never disappointed and always eager to explore the small but intentional menu that the proprietors of this business have taken the time to make. I'll be back, hungry for more. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
3 years ago
6 years ago
Saved my 200th review for a special place! Pasta is just about my favorite food on the planet, and Luce nails it. They cook your pasta fresh to order (& the fun part is you can peep in the little window and see them do it). Don't miss the opportunity to try their specials, like the short rib stroganoff or the chicken alfredo. You can't go wrong with the 3 classics on the menu though. Oh, and the converted parking lot seating area is very spacious & cute. Can't wait to try the pizza! read more
6 years ago
I can't recommend Luce enough! They have 3 different pasta dishes to offer which they serve in a to-go cup, and they are some of the most high quality pasta meals I have ordered from anywhere! If the same pasta were served to me at a fancy sit-down restaurant, I wouldn't bat an eye--it would fit in perfectly. My favorite is the Bolognese (called Bolo on their menu) which has pork and carrots and is so hearty and delicious. They also have a Caesar salad that I highly recommend. You place your order at a little window on the downtown mall. They now are also part of The Lot, which offers outdoor picnic tables under a big tent. Great option for COVID-safe dining. Wait time is usually around just 5 minutes. read more
2 years ago
7 years ago
Seriously SO. GOOD. It can't get better than this. Pasta. From a teensy little walk up window. Tiny chalkboard menu. And BIG. AMAZING. DELICIOUS FLAVOR! If I was a VA native, I'd totally make this my regular spot. I got the special they had today, short rib fettuccini with magic. That's about the best way I can describe it! I couldn't even take a photo of it because I couldn't wait to dive in, so here's one mid-eating. Go check this place out already. You will have no regrets. read more
4 years ago
6 years ago
The whole concept of this business is so cute. Instead of an actual restaurant or sit-in place, it functions more like a permanent food cart. The outdoor decoration is so cute and refreshing to look at since the store walls are painted white and yellow. The food is really really yummy, and I love how they give garlic bread in addition to the pasta. The Bolo and Cacio are both really creamy and cheesy and just like it was described on the menu. Although the bread was almost my favorite out of all the three. The bread was so cheesy and flavorful. Definitely want to go back sometime to try out more of the menu. The staff were all really kind and polite, and asked whether we wanted the garlic bread without having to be prompted by us. They also made sure to give us the food in a timely manner, it was so quick, especially because you just stand on the street while waiting for the food. It is kind of unfortunate they don't have any places to sit because you'll have to go somewhere else after they give you the food, but because there's plenty of outdoor seating in the Downtown mall, it's not a problem! Also the food definitely makes it worth it. read more
Went to Luce on Thursday night and there was no line and we were able to get seating at the picnic tables next to the building. A quaint little restaurant operating in a small building with window service, Luce offers 4 pasta options to choose from as well as a daily special, showing their confidence that they'll impress you with the classics. We sampled the daily special (balsamic steakhouse fettuccine) and the pistou. Trying both, I personally liked the pistou the best and thought the sauce was a great emulsion of flavor with the confit tomatoes, shaved zucchini, pesto, and Parmesan. The sauce for the pistou was a bit too liquidy for my personal preference, but overall real tasty. read more
PASTA IN A CUP!!! AND HAND- ROLLED?!? This hole in the wall (quite literally) is truly a shining light in the food scene in Cville. Perfect for a hearty, heart warming, full body warming pasta lunch while strolling down the downtown mall as people pass by marveling at your food. Probably the coolest on-the-go type of food ever!! Super filling. super yummy. super great because they only have 3 choices of pasta so indecision doesn't paralyze you happy stomach =happy times (and they have veggie friendly options) 12/10 would recommend read more
I'm so happy I finally got to try this place today. It's a chilly day and I have wanted to try it since it opened but I walked the mall to get it anyway. Absolutely worth it. Tough to decide which to get but I opted for the Cacio this time. Well seasoned, and delicious for sure! It didn't take long for my order to finish up (it was right at noon and only a few people were in front of me) and the cup was hot so it was the perfect thing to carry back to where I was planning to eat in this weather. It was plenty for me to eat for lunch too! There's no where to sit but that's fine for me since I just wanted a quick lunch to go. Looking forward to going back! read more
7 years ago
A delight on a cold day! It's about $10 for a 16oz cup and it's perfect for a snack and a light meal or all at once big meal. No where to sit but I was on the go so it was fine. Stayed hot till I got to where I was eating! Will 100% return. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Doesn't get more hole-in-wall-y than this BUT seriously the tastiest pasta ever!! love the "Bolo" but without mint (allergy). Seriously such a fave place to grab a bite to-go! read more
4 years ago
This place is a true definition of a hole in the wall with amazing flavors! We ordered all 4 of the pasta options and I just had to have the kale Cesar salad...EVERYTHING was amazing! The gentleman was very nice and welcoming, and he even walked us our food when it was done. We sat on the picnic tables that were on the side of the building and enjoyed the nice weather. The kale salad was full of flavor and I wish it had onions to seal the deal! My favorite pasta was the fettuccine and the vodka sauce was perfection! The meatballs were amazing and had I known that they were going to be THAT good..I would've ordered a side of meatballs. My least favorite was the cacio (probably spelling that wrong) but the sauce was a little thin for my liking but it was full of flavor! Overall, if I'm ever in Charlottesville again, Luce is on my list!! read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
5 years ago
One of my favorite restaurants! Just tried one of the special pizzas, with fig and arugula and it was so tasty. My go to is the Pistou pasta. There is a little outdoor area to eat next to the walk up window and the service always great. read more
6 years ago
6 years ago
This is a small spot that offers salads, pizzas, gelatos as well as some other items. It is set up to order by the window via: online or in person. It looks like they have outside tables available for warmer weather. I ordered the standard Margherita Pizza, and I added on the special Chocolate, espresso, gelato for desert. The pizza was a good size for myself for lunch and dinner (I'm a 110lb girl) and I still have gelato left for days to come! The pizza crust has a good stone baked taste and isn't too crispy or thick. The sauce was delicious! I believe it had a strong garlic flavor which I love! It was a tad bit tangy as well. The cheese was great and the mozzarella that was used was delicious and had that good "chew" when it's slightly cold. I think it's like bitting into foamy bubblegum, but in a totally good way! I asked to add mushrooms which weren't available which is fine but: note taken. Overall I'd say 8.5-10 pizza The gelato is pretty good, it has a smooth consistency and isn't too milky. The espresso flavor was a good amount for me but I personally go heavy on all flavors. Overall gelato 9-10 I'll visit again when I can sit outside sans Covid and people watch! read more
6 years ago
Luce pasta is just downright delicious. Every type, every time. If they have ravioli on the menu for the night, get there stat. The pizzas and gelatos are also amazing and are always rotating, so there is something new on the menu every night! We loved visiting in the summer/fall when they had ''The Lot'' tent up for socially distanced open air dining. It is always super clear that Luce is committed to maintaining a clean and safe environment during COVID, whether it be for takeout or dining at The Lot, where they used digital menus and had contactless drop off by serving staff. read more
6 years ago
When I heard about a walk up window where you could get fresh pasta I was SO excited. And it was worth the hype for sure. My friends and I went last winter, we were gonna all get a carton of pasta and maybe sneak it into a movie haha! There was a bit of a line especially with the 8 of us but they moved quick! The were out of the pesto pasta so we all got bolo or cacio and we loved it. Nothing like hot, fresh pasta with really tasty toppings. I got the bolo (actually got two bc they got confused when making all our orders) and the description did not do it justice for sure. The second serving I got also reheated well when I had it the next day! Unfortunately I can't eat gluten anymore (gf options??) but for literally anyone who can, go here read more
4 years ago
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