Osteria LuCa

Osteria LuCa is the neighborhood Italian restaurant on Park Road in Montford. A be kind motto is printed on the wall and lived at the tables. The room is warm, there is a pizza oven, and the pasta program runs deep. Regulars call the lasagna the best in Charlotte, and the bar staff take good care of anyone walking in without a reservation. Lunch runs Tuesday through Saturday, and the room is quiet enough at midday to hold a conversation. Prices are moderate for the quality of the cooking.

What to know

• Spaghetti alla nerano and pappardelle bolognese lead the pasta list.
• Beef and tuna carpaccio and a hot honey meatball pizza round it out.
• The caramel apple cheesecake is the dessert to order.
• The red wine list is solid without being expensive.
• The restaurant is closed on Monday.