Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Luciana's Ristorante

    4.0 (1.1k reviews)
    Closed 5:00 pm - 8:30 PM

    Luciana's Ristorante Photos

    Business Info

    LUCIANA'S RISTORANTE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Romantic
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Luciana's Ristorante

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Elisa G.

    We came in here for dinner tonight and I was skeptical since our first experience was just mediocre. Where are all these people eating, Long Island?? Chris is a great waiter and he gets all three stars The food is just average and the ambience is so 1960s. I'm not sure why this restaurant is popular. Would I come back here, definitely not for the pasta or the vibes. Maybe they need to do a renovation and update the music because no one wants to listen to Frank Sinatra, this is 2025. Wake up and modernize and roll with the changes.

    Cioccolato de Luciana (flourless chocolate cake)
    Jay S.

    My cousin and I went out for a birthday dinner, we really wanted to check out a pizza spot nearby, but unfortunately we couldn't get reservations and the wait was too long till closing. So we decided to check out Luciana's Ristorante nearby, and it was pretty good backup. The ambiance definitely has the feel of a classy sit-down Italian restaurant, so it was perfect for a special occasion. The drinks were strong, and the food was mostly pretty good. They did run out of the seabass and one of the pastas was very salty (Penne Puttanesca), but the wait staff was very kind and understanding. The melanzane rollatini, garlic bread, and rigatoni pesto were amazing, I highly recommend all of those as an app, side, and main (respectively). Another wonderful surprise, was the flourless chocolate cake, it's their signature dessert, and it makes sense after you try it! It was extremely rich and very decadent, more of a dark chocolate vibe, but still very dessert like and delicious of course! Food: 4/5 Drinks: 4/5 Service: 4.5/5 Ambiance: 4.5/5 Value: 3/5 Overall: 4/5

    Haven't tried the food yet. So cannot report on that. Will update once it comes. What I can report is that they have a very large sign about pets vs. service animals as the first thing you see walking into the resteraunt. I was curious about its size and verbiage since it felt very intense and I encounter a lot of issues while traveling with mine. I thought perhaps there had been a situation. Before sitting I went up to a manger just to ask and said "wondering about your sign, I have a lot of issues while traveling with my animal so just curious why the tone is so aggressive. His answer was actually very reasonable, after he insulted me. He initially said" well, people who don't actually need service animals are the ones that find it aggressive." ................... I'm guessing he saw the look on my face and changed his tune to tell me he was glad I understood the law, and that actual service animal would be welcome. For everyone's reference, there are two questions they can legally ask you when you enter a business with a service animal. Usually this resolves any issues of fraud or fakes which is why I was curious about the scope of the signage. Additional the animal must obviously be well trained etc. There really was no reason for the insult and apparent defensiveness. So that was disappointing as I was just curious having never seen anything like that before. Oh well. Also, they don't have fresh mint. Update** the food was incredible. No complaints highly recommend. Just maybe don't ask the manager about their sign.

    Pasta with eggplant
    Betty G.

    We recently attended a dinner presentation at Luciana's Ristorante. The restaurant is very old as well as their decorations. Everything looks so antique. It located more towards the ocean part of Dana Point but no ocean view. Food was good and service was just okay. But to be fair, we were a large group of almost 30 people so I know it isn't easy to serve everyone perfectly, especially during a presentation. Both, my husband and I had the bow tie pasta with grilled chicken, mushrooms and artichokes. Everything was good, just need a bit more chicken as it was mostly pasta. The person next to me had the eggplant with pasta and he finished it all so it must be really good. I also saw the person across from me had chicken parmigiana with spaghetti and the piece of chicken was huge. He also ate it all :) but didn't say a word about it, so I presumed that was also good?

    Marcus the bartender. Excellent, not sweet, not acidic...

    I start by looking for locally owned restaurants, in which the staff feels like family. This place hits all the right notes. Dinner was excellent. We went Friday night, and came back Saturday night. A lot of the attraction is the staff. They are wonderful. Have a chat with Donna on the accordian in the bar, and tell Marcus behind the bar exactly what you want, and he will deliver. I had the lasagna one night, the spaghetti bolognese the next. Everything tasted great. We're going back next week. Highly recommended.....

    Sweetheart cutting cake.

    We celebrated a wedding reception here and it was all superb! The service was flawless. The lasagna was so delicious. Calamari- wow! Everyone had so much fun!!!! Kathy, the private Dining manager was a breeze to work with and went above and beyond. Joel, the manager understands customer service! Mike and Chris were cheery servers! They met all of our needs. I highly recommend having your event on the patio or even the whole restaurant. They don't charge a room fee or service fee and you add the tip. They did not charge to cut the sweetheart cake to add to the dessert plates. Five star experience, service and food.

    Bryan C.

    Our "Cheers". You cannot get better service in this state! And the food, absolutely amazing. Creatures of habit, we start with the calamari and although my wife samples all of the delicacies, I stick to the rigatoni salsiccia. Thank you Eder and Linda for always making us feel like we are home!

    Rigatoni Pesto
    Maria L.

    We had a lovely dinner at Luciana's! Started off with lemon drop martini + calamari + fresh yummy burrata. Then came the pastas that were so tasty and delicious: my pesto rigatoni with chicken & pine nuts was a good size, just the right amount of creaminess and pasta was al dente; my husband's rigatoni salsiccia was just as tasty with generous servings of sausage, I kept on digging into his plate! Son enjoyed his porchetta as well. Dinner was well-paced, ambience was cozy and festive and service was attentive and friendly. For the quality and location, it was also reasonably priced. We will definitely return!

    Pollo alla Parmigiana
    Dave K.

    My wife and I love this spot. We've always lucked out and sat at the bar inside but it is always crowded and last week we weren't lucky so we sat at the bar outside (in the tent). ITS EVEN BETTER!!! We love the bartenders inside and outside! Both are pros. Food as always is awesome. Can't say enough except we go there at least 6 times a year and it never gets old.

    A beautiful and elegant restaurant with a wonderful atmosphere. I came in the evening with two friends and we brought our daughters with friends and the experience was lovely! After our girls left, we changed from table to bar. The risotto was excellent and the food overall was delicious. The staff treated us amazingly and made us feel very welcome. It's such a charming place to spend time with friends . We will definitely be back.

    Gritty clams with chunky, half-cooked tomatoes
    Robyn K.

    Oh man. This is a hard one because I really don't like bringing down a local restaurants score- but this whole dinner was a miss for me. It's strange- the outside of this restaurant looks like modern, but warm. Painted and decorated with perfectly placed lighting. Once you walk in- it's like a flash back to I don't even know when but somewhere in Italy long ago. This wouldn't be a bad thing, if the food was closer to authentic Italian food. Maybe the "list of ingredients" is the same.. but the combination seemed off in certain dishes. For example, there were chunks of barely cooked tomatoes in the broth? I can see the dish working of maybe the tomatoes had been fire roasted in olive oil and some Italian spices... but it was just a miss. Also, there was soooo much sand in my clams . I don't know how other restaurants do it- but this one needs to figure out a better way to clean them before serving. I ordered the Chicken with Kale risotto as my main and I really liked this dish. Very flavorful! I'm going to circle back to getting seated once we were in the restaurant since I got sidetracked :). We had a reservation for 5:30, arrived on time and were seated at one of the worst tables with constant traffic. It was near the opening separating two rooms. They shouldn't even have a table there honestly. Although- maybe some people don't mind this? It felt like we were seated on an airplane aisle. Not ideal. Also- we didn't even realize we could've sat outside, as it was never even offered to us? We only saw it was an option as we left (and there were still plenty of open tables out there as it was early). Our server- who I swear called himself Eric (but receipt said Eder G). He saved the night. He was great! I would not come back here. Finding Italian food as a gluten free girl is hard because I have been spoiled by Italy itself. Corn penne is cheap and just plain yucky (and always genetically modified- so no thank you)... I wish they were more creative in their GF pasta choice. My husband said his veal ravioli was ok... he didn't like how much sauce/gravy was on top, but that's just his preference. There were a few other things that happened during our meal that I won't bore you with- but all in all, we wouldn't return. It seemed like a lot of older locals were regulars here though- so maybe just not our cup of tea.

    See all

    14 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    24 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Elisa G.
    3501
    3343
    15228

    6 months ago

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 2
    Love this 9
    Oh no 3

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    27 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 3
    Photo of D. W.
    0
    112
    7

    8 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Beth G.
    0
    92
    18

    15 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sherri E.
    101
    256
    185

    1 month ago

    Everything was amazing ! The food , the service and the atmosphere! I can't compliment the amazing food enough!!! Worth every penny and more

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    30 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Costa S.
    693
    14
    14

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tim C.
    16
    66
    44

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Rose J.
    34
    12
    0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2
    Photo of Tom G.
    0
    34
    0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Rick V.
    54
    35
    1

    5 months ago

    Good Italian food. So far the best we have had since moving to the area. Looking forward to visiting it again soon

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dee S.
    0
    53
    1

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 29

    Ask the Community - Luciana's Ristorante

    What is the current corkage fee?

    Their corkage fee is $25 up to two bottles of wine, if not on the wine list. If on the wine list $35 up to two bottles.

    Hello, what is the corkage free these days?

    I went there a couple weeks ago, I tried a very sweet white wine does anyone know the name of it?

    Moscato?

    Can I bring my own wine for a corkage fee?

    Yes. I believe it is $25 per bottle.

    What is the corking fee?

    $20 a bottle

    How much is the corking fee if we bring our own?

    Corkage fee is $25.00 per bottle.

    What room would be recommended for 1st timers. Celebrating Christmas with our annual family Holiday dinner with no children? 4 -6 people. Thanks

    The front dining room is nice. Really, can't go wrong. Cozy atmosphere.

    View All 12 Questions

    You might also consider

    Station Craft - Brisket sliders

    Station Craft

    4.1(587 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$

    We were thereto watch basketball so the huge screens, sound on and lively environment was great…read more It was busy but the host was nice and wait not too long. But Jack C. Our server was the highlight. He was so attentive despite being busy, friendly and also detailed and accurate. He made the night so enjoyable! Couple notes: lighting a little too bright and food only ok

    Finally made it to Station Craft. We have been eyeing this place for years but it always seems…read morepacked, so we just drive past. Today, on a Saturday at 12-ish, as a family of 4 we were able to get seated right away. Our server was attentive and offered/brought waters right away. We were seated inside which was open and spacious but loud enough to make it family friendly. The tables were far enough a part that you did not feel like you were on top of each other. Next time, we might ask to sit outside so our young boys can watch the cars drive by. We learned that the kitchen is nut free (always double check as this could change), which was amazing since our son has a severe nut allergy. He was so excited to learn this as he can be limited at other places due to cross contamination or the wrong oils. Then when the food came out and it was delicious - it sealed the deal. It is now in the top of our list of places to go. The kids cheeseburger is good size and not a smaller version as some places do. The chicken tenders were panko crusted which was so crunchy. My husband and I shared the smoked carrot and chicken tacos and we enjoyed them both. The beer was also very good with my husband and I each trying a different kind - an IPA and a Pale Ale. We are so glad we finally stopped in and so should you!

    Photos
    Station Craft - Partial interior before it packed out.

    Partial interior before it packed out.

    Station Craft - Fish and chips and a Smash Burger.. Yummy

    Fish and chips and a Smash Burger.. Yummy

    Station Craft - GoldennStout

    See all

    GoldennStout

    Coastal Kitchen

    Coastal Kitchen

    4.2(1.5k reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$$

    I've been here many times and I love everything on their menu. I would recommend making a…read morereservation especially on the busy weekends. Restaurant is nice with some booth seating in the back and even some outdoor seating. Parking itself-there's a small lot next to it but it's almost always full so you can do some street parking in the surrounding neighborhoods. When I last came here, we ordered the red pepper hummus to share and I ordered the French dip! It was excellent as per usual and the service was good. One critique I would have though is that one of the people in my party was a vegetarian and had ordered a veggie burger. The people bringing out the food accidentally swapped the plates of someone else in the party who had ordered a chicken blt when placing the dishes in front of each person. Unfortunately the vegetarian did take a bite of the chicken blt before realizing it was not the veggie burger and spit it out. It is what it is and was an honest mistake. But, maybe confirming the dishes before placing it in front of the person would be good. First time it's happened but we hope it doesn't happen again because we love this place!

    To start off, parking is an absolute nightmare. Aim to get there earlier and don't be surprised if…read moreyou have to take use the side streets for parking in the neighborhoods. As for the food, it was pretty good. We got the Salmon, Rotisserie Chicken and Baby Back Ribs. The baby back ribs was definitely the best bang for your buck thing on the menu and they were delicious. The Salmon was ok and the chicken was a little dry. The fries and Cole slaw were very good and our dessert was also very rich. The service was solid and it felt like a place to dress a little nicer but no pressure to wear a suit or anything.

    Photos
    Coastal Kitchen
    Coastal Kitchen
    Coastal Kitchen

    See all

    Truly Pizza - Smoky Vodka

    Truly Pizza

    4.2(1.6k reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$
    Women-owned & operated
    Free parking

    Happy to find out you can order takeout. There is a separate takeout door on the right side of the…read morebuilding. Ordering was easy but it did take over an hour to be ready. I didn't mind the wait, it was actually just enough time to go to Dana Point Harbor and walk around. Tried the La Foresta and it was not only pretty, it was delicious! Must try if you like mushrooms. Can't go wrong with the classic square pepperoni. So good even the next day!

    Not worth the wait…read more Hosts are horrible. We did walk in. About 20 minutes later we get a text that says our table is ready. Great! We were walking around and rush and get back within a few minutes. They said the table in the main dining room is just paying their bill and it'll be a few minutes. 25 minutes later we ask and they tell us it'll be another 5 minutes. 10 minutes later our table was ready. I don't understand why they tell us our table is ready when we still have to wait over 35 more minutes. She wasn't apologetic and didn't give any explanation except, you just have to wait. We were sat at a different table too and additional parties of the same size were sat who came up after us so it wasn't just waiting on that table... Food was okay. 3 stars. First bite of sweet and spicy was good but each bite after, the sugar just got more and more overwhelming. Like a pizza on a donut almost. Servers were great. 5 stars. Ambience is loud but great views from upstairs.

    Photos
    Truly Pizza - Takeout Window

    Takeout Window

    Truly Pizza - Sweet and Spicy

    Sweet and Spicy

    Truly Pizza - Smoky Vodka (subbed out pepperoni with meatball!)

    See all

    Smoky Vodka (subbed out pepperoni with meatball!)

    Luciana's Ristorante - italian - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...