Will never go to back to Luce restaurant again. To give some context, I made a reservation for 3 guests total on Wednesday, November 15, at 5:15pm (quite early) , to celebrate my mother's birthday. I made this reservation one week and a half ahead of time, and I let them know about the celebration and that I was going to bring a special wine with us (I'm already aware of corkage fee). When we finally showed up, we were met with the most awkward cold service. Yes, we were received by a hostess, busser and our waiter (Alberti), but the way they treated us made us feel like we were unwanted there. I guess I was right with my gut feeling, because our server never poured us the wine after he opened it or showed at the table at every courseto check on us. Which was weird, considering how empty was the restaurant at the time we showed up (it got full eventually).On top of that, on every course, we were rushed to finish. They never asked about the food, except for one occasion. They would just show up rushing to pick up the plates when we were not even done. Fast forward, we were rushed with the desserts, had to wait for one of our desert wines that didn't show up on time, and just before we were going to order our coffees, the server simply placed a check without asking if we wanted anything else. When I told him that we wanted coffee, he told us that we had 10 minutes to finish, because he had a party upcoming. We ordered and the order was brought incomplete. This was embarrassing, because it was my mother who they kept missing during the entire service. That's no way to treat a guest, and on top of that, he dropped again a check with an imposed 20% gratuity for a party of 3. Yes, a party of 3, not 6. I tried checking the policy of gratuity, and no were did I find a policy stating an imposed percentage on a small party. I'm all for great tips, but it should always be for excepcional service, not for mediocre and cold service. And good luck if you bring that up, because the manager was no were to be seen. I also noticed how they were so warm and gentle with other patrons, but not with us. I have worked in hospitality since 2006, and I have never, EVER felt this marginalized at a restaurant. And the food wasn't even that great. I usually get pretty good service at the majority of places that I go, so this was pretty shocking to experience. If you want a genuine Italian restaurant, with amazing, warm and kind service and exceptional food, I recommend Dolce, EYES CLOSED. They will treat their patrons equally, no matter who they are. For a $300+ dinner, I expected great service. This place was subpar. **Edit: To the owner's response. While the reservation was at 5:15pm, we actually sat down at 5:25pm and if you're a business owner, you know that it's going to take at least an extra 10 minutes to order anything. So no, that's not almost 3 hours of dining. If you pay close attention to the check, you will also notice that we ordered many food items, plus consumed a full bottle of wine (hence the corkage fee) and two after dinner drinks to be consumed between 2 people (the third guest is a minor). You can't expect for two people to chug down an entire bottle of wine and 2 cordials in 1.5 hours. That's not realistic. 1.5 hours is an estimate, but that can change, depending on the amount of items to be consumed. We basically spent at your place $120 per person. I don't expect to have the staff attempting in many occasions, and on all courses, to remove the dishes that we were still trying to eat. You simply don't do that. Also, it would be a good thing to train your staff to ask if we want anything else before dropping the check. We were still not done ordering. One suggestiog that I can offer to you is to do what some of the best restaurants out there do when they're in a rush to flip a table: if the guest finish the desserts but are still not done because maybe they're ordering after dinner drinks, be gracious and invite them to have complimentary drinks at the bar.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 3
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 3

I had the pleasure of dining at Luce recently, and I can't stop raving about it! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality that set the tone for a truly exceptional dining experience. Let's talk about the drinks - outstanding doesn't even begin to describe them! Each sip was a flavorful journey, and the mixologists at Luce certainly know their craft. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or prefer a classic, they've got something to tantalize your taste buds. Now, onto the food – spectacular is an understatement. Every dish that graced our table was a masterpiece. The flavors, presentation, and attention to detail were truly impressive. And don't even get me started on their Tiramisu – it was a heavenly slice of dessert paradise! I can still taste it just thinking about it – absolutely yummy! They also arranged for a dessert and a candle for our anniversary! But what truly set Luce apart was the absolutely stellar service. The staff was not only attentive but genuinely warm and welcoming. They went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was perfect, making recommendations and answering our questions with enthusiasm. As a huge fan of great food and memorable dining experiences, I can confidently say that Luce has won my heart. I can't wait to return and savor their culinary delights once again. If you're looking for a restaurant that combines outstanding drinks, spectacular food, and dessert to die for, all served with a side of impeccable service, Luce is the place to be. Highly recommended!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Went here on a date recently. We had a reservation and were ten minutes late and they still honored it. The guy at the front who I presumed to be the owner was hospitable and checked on us throughout the meal. Our waitress was also hospitable and attentive. The atmosphere is cozy, but could definitely use some updates/remodel. The food was mid at best. It definitely wasn’t worth the almost $30 a plate they charge. Likewise, If you want to add meat to your pasta, it’s $12 extra… making an already okay-ish meal around $40-45 a plate. The pasta itself was fine but the sauce was just okay. We had the carbonara and vodka sauce pasta. Both were just okay, nothing to write home about. And it definitely wasn’t worth the $130 we spent. Wine is good but overpriced, cheapest is $15/glass. They also add 20% gratuity which is fine, but kinda sucks when it’s overpriced food for the quality. Would I return? No.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 2
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 3
Parking space
Difficult to find parking
Parking options
Paid parking garage
Wheelchair accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible

The filet mignon was cooked perfect and the truffle sauce on it was amazing. The potatoes that came with it were very good. Drinks were pretty good. The muscles were basic, but the clams were great. I only wish they had some extra menu options. It did have a large amount of pasta and Franch culinary has more than just that to offer. The pasta my partner got seemed good, but it's pasta, not all that different than other places, but adding shrimp is usually about $6, it was 16 here. Her pasta with shrimp cost more than my filet mignon which has never really happened to me. It's a solid place, but I'll probably not return simply because theres a few places I'd rather go for the same cost. If you do go, focus on anything not pasta and you should be pretty happy. If you park in the deck, most spots are reserved, just go to a high floor like 6 or swing to the exit area to find a spot. Take the elevator down to lobby and the entrance is right there in the lobby. Parking there is $15 I think
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 3
Recommended dishes
Ziti Alla Vodka

The food was okay, not great, just okay. Extremely overpriced for bland food. I could've gotten better food at a pizzeria for a quarter of the price. Just because the prices are high does not mean good food. The best thing about the night was our waiter. He was attentive funny & provided great service. Arrived 15 minutes before our reservation. The matradee told us our table was not ready yet. Ask us to sit on the bench out front, and he will let us know when the table is ready. The gentleman behind us asked if his table was ready. The matradee told him that his table was not ready but that he could sit at the bar and have a drink & wait while the table gets ready. Why didn't he offer me & my wife that option. He just told us to wait on the bench. I will not be returning, for I felt like I was treated unfairly. I will not use the race card. I'm just saying I was treated unfairly. Spent about $250 for just okay.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 3
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Creme Brulee

The restaurant was beautiful but was very unimpressed with the food and our server. His name was Caesar. It was a group of six of us and when he brought our check to the table it was all on one bill. We told him we needed separate checks, and he informed us that we should have told him that when we placed our orders. Maybe I’m wrong but I think most servers normally ask if this is all on one check or separate. Then he proceeded to leave the table and someone in our party had to take it to the cashier in order to get it done. With that being said the bill for one of us was charged for two appetizers that she didn’t order and unable to eat because she is vegan. She was so aggravated at this point, she just paid for it! I had the Pasta Alla Norma (eggplant) and it was the worst I have had. I’ve heard so many good things about this place. But was not a good experience for me. I also think their food and drink prices are far too expensive. Don’t care to return.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100

Listen... I'm not from the south, I don't know what is and isn't considered fine dining... But this definitely ain't it.. if your staff isn't up to standards of how the restaurant is set up, then something needs to change. Either lower the standards expected from guests, the cost of food or I don't know, hire someone that isn't going to ignore a table and sit on their phone. Also the helper staff not being able to understand english was a little aggravating when they took my plate I was still eating. Food was awesome though, besides that I'd question who's running this place. Like it didn't even feel like fine dining with all the noise and unprofessionalism going on. Such a weird experience, thanks Charlotte. I had to edit this because I just remembered how awkward I felt all dress up next to people dressed in highschool prom dresses and collared t-shirts and no table manners.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 3
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 2

We recently went to Luce Restaurant for my daughter's 16th birthday. She did all of the research, read the reviews and made the reservation. When you get to Luce, you have to go through the lobby of the Truist building because of construction outside. However, once you get in, you immediately notice the ambiance and atmosphere is well deserving of the great reviews. We were promptly seated and within a matter of minutes our server was over and helped us with the menu, drinks and answered all of our questions. The service was impressive and we never felt like we were being unattended. The food came out quickly and everyone in our party enjoyed their meal. When you look at the menu, it's touches on many tastes so you're sure to find something. Overall, the food, the atmosphere and ambiance were perfect. My daughter was very happy with everything and the staff did a wonderful job of making her feel special.
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

HORRIBLE WAITER!!!!! 20% Gratuity is automatically included in the bill so no wonder they don’t care how they treat you. I mean who ask the guest what price range are you trying to stay under when asking about wine recommendations. First of all, I wouldn’t come to a restaurant if I felt anything on the menu was too much for me to afford. The food was ok, nothing extraordinary or truly mouthwatering. I’ve had better patas at Cheesecake Factory. The ambiance was nice and cozy. But the place could use a new ceiling. Overall I do feel like the experience was ruined by our waiter. As a business owner I have to leave this review because one of the most important things for a business is CUSTOMER SERVICE. Customer service is 100% under owner’s/Management control. I am doing this hoping the owner/manager takes notes (if he cares.) I won’t be coming back here honestly.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100

We had a blast here last night!!! First of all, Thank you Maria for accommodating my request in such a short notice. The food was amazing and the service was acceptable. The waiters have provided a great customer service. The only thing we did not like was how the checks were handled. I understand businesses get charged by credit card issuers sometimes but it’s not a reason to have customers go through a hectic Maths session to find out how to split the checks. Next time please think about more accommodating ways of solving typical situations. Also please make drinks available for people. I requested Mock-tail suggestions several times and never got a drink besides water lol. I know it was a large group so I won’t hold a grudge for that. I really enjoyed my overall experience!!! Thank you to each member of the stuff for making our celebration more special. I recommend Luce to anyone looking for great food and great service.

First time there and loved it!! Great decor, romantic low lighting. Bathroons were clean and upscale which is always something I look for in a nice restaurant as well. My girlfriend and I shared some brushetta and steamed clams/mussels for appetizers and both were excellent. For enteees we shared risotto and rigatoni buttera which were both excellent as well. Finally we shared the creme brulé for dessert and loved it. The service was excellent as well, very attentive. Perhaps the best part was the manager, Manuel, stopping by several times that evening to check on us and our food and service and making us feel so comfortable and like family. He ran around doing the same to everyone there and that is something you rarely find. As you can guess, we both loved it and highly recommend it and will be back. If you have not been there you are missing out!!

My husband and I were able to easily get a reservation here on a Monday night. We chose to have the burrata with mozzarella and prosciutto as our appetizer which was the highlight of our entire meal. The mozzarella was so creamy, 10/10. For our entree, we ordered the spaghetti alla carbonara and the linguine ca del mare. I feel like you can't go wrong with carbonara, but the linguine was a bit underwhelming for being the most expensive item on the menu. Probably would've chosen something else looking back. Service was excellent though, thank you!!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
La Bruschetta

The food was great, the server was pretty good. The assistants that brought the food were rude and not trained at all. We had a reservation for 8:30, 9:45 they stared to get the place empty, stared to move chairs and tables apart to a corner, we couldn't finish our coffee, we had to leave. On Google they advertise that they close 11pm, the didn't say a word that it was time to close. It's a shame but it was first and last time. For an upscale restaurant there's a lack of service and communication with the costumer. Never disclosed that they automatically include 20% gratuity.
Food: 3
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 2

The customer service here is A1. The staff made sure I was taken care of. The Caesar salad here is great. The dish with the penne pasta and shrimp was very tasty. There was a special dish during the time I went for lobster risotto, which was very tasty. The entrees could of had a tad more seasoning but was still good. If you like chocolate, the chocolate dessert is just about perfect. The crème brûlée was on point too. The space is small and cozy but not too small at the same time. I liked the lighting and atmosphere.

Stopped for a quick dinner before our play. I had a Margarettini.. delish!!! Ordered an eggplant pasta that did satisfy my tastebuds. Service is good.. was expecting "Wow" but it's ok. We will be back!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 4
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Ziti Alla Vodka, Spaghetti Alla Carbonara
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Paid parking lot, Paid street parking

My friend jeniffer made a reservation for her mom's birthday at this place for a party of 3 and they had the worst experience. They gave her the worst service and were very rude to her. At the end of her horrible experience they gave her the check with a 20 percent gratuity included. That insane for only a party of 3. Avoid this place and go to another restaurant that knows how to treat their customers.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 1
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1

I loved everything about this restaurant and will definitely be returning. I took my boyfriend here for his birthday, and it was phenomenal. The only thing I was not too fond of was the charcuterie board. However, that’s not the star menu item. The other appetizer we ordered with the mussels took me back to my time in Little Italy and how they serve their mussels and clams.This was my first time having risotto and it was a successful experience! Thank you for hosting us! I cannot wait to return.

Phenomenal all around. The ambiance and service were excellent. They start you off with bread and beans which were good. We got the calamari that was phenomenal. The wife got the Penne Positano. The sauce was heavenly. I got the Filet Mignon which was as smooth as velvet. Finished it off with crème brûlée. Everything was fantastic.
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Creme Brulee

The wait staff was friendly, professional and accommodating. The food came out fresh and hot, from the appetizers to the main course. Desert was delicious as well. I will be visiting again before I leave Charlotte.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Ziti Alla Vodka, Ravioli Caprese, Chocolate Cake, Spaghetti Alla Carbonara

I rewrote this review in response to the note I just received from restaurant management. I just found my earlier review. It is never my intention to leave more than one review, however unfortunate the experience. Still, a helpful hint: if you don't want to wind up with a one or two star rating, don't put your patrons in the hospital. Just a suggestion. I'll never return there.
Food: 1
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

We don’t go out for dinner often but have made a tradition of enjoying something special together over the holidays. Luce was exceptional from start to finish: the service, the atmosphere and the meal made this a truly memorable occasion.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Salmone Mediterra

Incredible Anniversary dinner! Everything was perfect from top to bottom. Our server Cesar did everything perfectly to make us feel comfortable. Every dish was incredible. Carpaccio, lobster pasta, carbonara, etc. Cannolis were the best dessert I can remember. We will be back.
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Spaghetti Alla Carbonara

Everything about Luce is just wonderful! Yesterday, we celebrated my husband’s birthday. They welcomed us and sat us at a lovely table and gave us bubbly and gelato on the house to celebrate. Caesar and his team were beyond wonderful and I highly recommend Luce to ANYONE in the Charlotte area. Come for great vibes and even better food! You won’t regret it!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Very busy but the staff and the kitchen performed incredible well. We were lucky to get Cesare whose service was extraordinary. The "clams and mussels" appetizer was fabulous and the Eggplant Pasta Norma was a definite foodies' award winning dish. Loved all of it!!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

Probably my all time favorite restaurant in uptown. The atmosphere is so beautiful, food is great and affordable, and the service is fast. I ordered the Alla Vodka pasta and it was amazing. Definitely recommend coming here
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Ziti Alla Vodka

This place is WONDERFUL. My husband and I visited for the first time last night and it will not be the last. The food and wine was incredible and the service was stupendous! It was a very busy night and the place was so busy but the servers and bartender and hostess were working so hard and were so attentive. We felt like we were back in Italy. Highly recommend!

Top class Italian restaurant in uptown the vibe is very formal and professional so you want to dress your best . Also , book a reservation. The food is fantastic. I had well done Salmon with asparagus and spinach . I loved it . One of the best salmons I tasted . The waiter was rude quite unfortunately. I was calm about it . That’s was the only down side .

Came for dinner and everything was amazing. True Italian food in a cozy atmosphere. We ordered the octopus starter, ziti alla vodka and rigatoni buttera. They came out with a small dessert with a candle for my birthday which was sweet. Food, drinks, and service were all top notch. Happy to have found solid Italian food in Charlotte! Will be back again.

Authentic menu, amazing quality, professional service! A real taste of Italy. Went at Rush on a Saturday night and everything was above and beyond.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
La Bruschetta, Spaghetti Alla Carbonara

We dined here for the 1st time while in Charlotte for the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit and had a phenomenal experience! The Spaghetti alla Carbonara was the best we have ever had outside of Italy! Loved it! Will definitely be back when in town again. Buon appetito!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100

This was a great experience. I took my wife here for her birthday and it did not disappoint. The dimly lit room provided a great atmosphere and the food was out of this world. Definitely a place to check out if your looking to do something romantic.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50

Celebrated a birthday at this beautiful location and wow was I impressed. The service, ambiance, food and drinks were all top notch. They even comp your parking pass. Excellent authentic Italian food - I can't wait to come back. Get the tiramisu!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100

The food is the reason to go. Simple meals done perfectly. The salmon was wonderful. Lasagna also a favorite. Service was quality as expected. Atmosphere was good but not special. Lemon drop cocktail was also well worth it.
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 3

We had an outstanding evening at Luce; the service was spectacular, the staff was quite friendly, the food was wonderful, and the wine pairings were very well done. Very nice location tucked away in uptown Charlotte back behind Sea Level. We will definitely be back.

We had a wonderful dinning experience, our complements to the chef and what a wonderful amazing knowledgeable staff, we have the opportunity to have a brief conversation with (Mikel) (César) and (Sebastián) regarding cultural immersion. Will definitely coming back.

Romantic dinner spot in uptown Charlotte. Small dining room allows for a cozy and intimate setting. Staff was very polite but could have been a bit more attentive. Table was ready on time through a reservation. Authentic Italian meals, delicious and filling.

The food was flavorful! The service was 5 stars. I love how attentive the servers were and I truly can’t wait to go back. It’s a must try “LUCE” on the list of my favorite restaurants. The host/manager/server he is everything will make your experience.

My 36th birthday dinner was at Luce restaurant and bar uptown, and It was an amazing experience. It was a nice quiet elegant atmosphere. Staff was extremely helpful and attentive to our table. Food and service was magnificent …

Mediocre at best. Bolognese ravioli sauce lacking flavor. Desserts overly refrigerated and lacking originality. Service a "mah". Ambiance minimal. Bread was the most excellent item.
Food: 3
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 2

A winner!!! Everything about this place was absolutely great - the fresh bread, the entrées, the dessert, the service! I took my daughter Herr to celebrate her birthday and the reviews were spot on. I highly recommend it.

We had the Carpaccio which is arugula, Parmesan cheese and thinly sliced beef, very good. Lasagna is delicious. Also had the daily special of pasta vodka sauce with salmon. Pasta is fresh. Lemon drop martini is okay.

It was awesome! Our waiter was very attentive! Our peach bellini's were nice and strong! My Cavapili was delicious! I was very satisfied!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50

Nice atmosphere and very kind service, but the food was just ok with a very large price tag. There was surprise blue cheese on my carbonara! Italians will be the first to tell you, “Don’t fix what isn’t broken.”

One of the best Italian Restaurant the I try in us . The Branzino fish was absolutely great . Service is very good . Price also is really good in comparison of the food quality . Strongly suggested .

Excellent service and great ambiance. Most restaurants are too loud, that was not the case here. Intimate setting. The food was fresh and delicious. I’m glad we tried this restaurant.

The meals for 2 of the 4 of us were just not good. The waiter was rude and condescending. I do not recommend.
Food: 2
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 4

Everything was delicious. From appetizers to the pesce special and then dessert. We will definitely go back!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

The food was absolutely wonderful. The service was exceptional. They make you feel special. Definitely going back.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

Wonderful food. My husband said" Best bolognese lasagna I've ever had." We'll definitely go back.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Good vibe & very friendly staff, but in my opinion the food was Mid at best. Everything looked better than it tasted.