by Laura
On our way to the Better Than Ezra concert, I wasn’t sure that people would still remember their hits from the ’90′s. Turns out they just put out a new album, and the kids in Raleigh were happy to dance around for a few hours, despite the rain. Better Than Ezra=Better Than Expected. Who knew?
Before the concert, I also wanted to check out the downtown Raleigh “scene”, which I’d heard had greatly improved since I’d been there 7 years ago. Apparently there’s a new Warehouse district, among several areas with expanded going-out options.
The place we chose for dinner, Caffe Luna, had lots of positive online ratings (I tend to trust Yelp), and it was also next to the concert, on the corner of Moore Square. The owner used to sell wine to Italian restaurants in NYC. His now-wife was the daughter of one of his customers. After they got married, he convinced her to go down South to start this venture together.
Our experience at dinner made it clear that there is something to be said for Southern hospitality. During prime eating time on a busy Saturday, we showed up without reservations. The owner gave us a glass of wine for having to wait 10 minutes for a table. Coming from New York City, where we would have been a) smirked at, b) waited at least an hour or c) both, this was nothing short of miraculous. He apologized, saying that it was a crazy night, due to a wedding reception in their private room. Yet, the owner greeted and welcomed each person and ensured that tables were seated promptly.
The food was good, basic Italian comfort food, focused on pasta. It was a place to return to, for the excellent service, and for the food itself, which was exactly what I’d been craving. I got the veal parm with penne. A good test of an Italian restaurant is their ability to make penne correctly al dente, and they passed. Another plus – our bill was only $30.
4 Obamas for Caffe Luna!
Laura
Harold
