Lunatico, nestled in the heart of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, has quickly become a neighborhood favorite. But what exactly makes its menu so appealing? This in-depth review explores Lunatico's offerings, highlighting key dishes, pricing, and the overall dining experience. We'll delve into the specifics to help you decide if Lunatico is your next culinary destination.
Exploring Lunatico's Diverse Menu
Lunatico's menu is a delightful blend of Italian-American classics with a modern twist. It caters to a wide range of tastes, offering something for everyone, from pasta lovers to pizza aficionados. Their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients shines through in every dish.
Appetizers: A Taste of Italy
The appetizer section is a strong start to any Lunatico experience. Standout choices include:
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Arancini: These crispy fried risotto balls, often filled with mozzarella and ragu, are a perfect example of Italian comfort food done right. Their flavor is rich and satisfying, with a delightful textural contrast between the crispy exterior and creamy interior.
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Bruschetta: The classic Italian appetizer gets a modern makeover at Lunatico. Their version features fresh, seasonal ingredients atop toasted bread, offering a vibrant and refreshing start to a meal.
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Calamari: Tender calamari, lightly fried and served with a zesty marinara sauce, is a popular choice for seafood lovers. The calamari is cooked perfectly, retaining its tenderness without being rubbery.
Pasta Perfection: A Celebration of Italian Cuisine
Lunatico's pasta dishes are arguably the highlight of the menu. They offer a wide selection, from classic spaghetti with meat sauce to more innovative creations.
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Spaghetti Carbonara: A rich and creamy carbonara, made with perfectly cooked spaghetti, guanciale (cured pork jowl), eggs, and Pecorino Romano cheese, is a must-try. The dish showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Tagliatelle al Ragu: The slow-cooked ragu, simmered for hours with a blend of meats and tomatoes, coats the tagliatelle perfectly, resulting in a deeply flavorful and comforting dish.
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Lobster Ravioli: A luxurious option, the lobster ravioli is filled with succulent lobster meat and served with a light and flavorful sauce. This dish is a true testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients.
Pizza Paradise: Thin Crust Delights
Lunatico's pizzas are made with a thin, crispy crust, providing the perfect base for their flavorful toppings.
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Margherita: A classic Neapolitan pizza, featuring San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. The simplicity of this pizza highlights the quality of the ingredients.
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Diavola: For those who like a little heat, the Diavola pizza is topped with spicy salami, mozzarella, and a touch of chili flakes.
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Mushroom Pizza: A vegetarian option featuring a variety of sautéed mushrooms, mozzarella, and herbs.
Main Courses: Beyond Pasta and Pizza
While the pasta and pizza are undeniably popular, Lunatico also offers a selection of other main courses:
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Osso Buco: A slow-cooked braised veal shank, served with risotto Milanese. This is a true representation of traditional Italian cooking.
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Grilled Salmon: A simple yet elegant dish, featuring perfectly grilled salmon served with roasted vegetables.
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Chicken Parmigiana: A classic Italian-American dish, featuring breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection.
Desserts: The Sweet Ending
No meal at Lunatico is complete without indulging in their delicious desserts. Their tiramisu is a popular choice, along with various seasonal offerings.
Pricing and Overall Experience
Lunatico's pricing is moderate, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the overall dining experience. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a main course, with appetizers and desserts in the $10-$15 range. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a family meal. The service is generally attentive and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.
Conclusion: A Bedford-Stuyvesant Gem
Lunatico offers a consistently high-quality dining experience, with a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. Their commitment to fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, and a warm atmosphere makes it a true gem in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Brooklyn, Lunatico is definitely worth a visit. The Lunatico menu is a testament to the restaurant's dedication to providing delicious and authentic Italian-American cuisine. Make a reservation and experience the Lunatico magic yourself!
