It’s not often that a restaurant in Orange County celebrates decades in business, but Luciana’s Ristorante has been a favorite of the coastal Orange County dining scene for nearly 40 years. Located in picturesque Dana Point, Luciana’s exudes the warm ambiance of a Tuscan inn, welcoming guests with attentive service, authentic Italian cuisine, and an impressive wine list with over 350 wines from 10 countries.
Just in time for warmer weather and longer evenings, Luciana’s has recently remodeled its front patio and has opened a Terrazzo – a lively enclosed terrace with cafe lights and a retractable roof for dining under the stars. The restaurant also has its cozy dining rooms reminiscent of a library and a Tuscan wine cellar. There is also an intimate bar perfect for enjoying a cocktail with a friend or date.
Luciana’s lasting popularity is due in part to second-generation restaurateur Jorge Luhan II. He remains dedicated to his family’s Italian customs, providing guests with the same unique culinary experience and unparalleled service that they have enjoyed since his mother, Lucia “Lucy” Luhan started the restaurant in 1983.
Lucy Luhan previously owned the popular What’s Cooking? Bistro in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa before launching Luciana’s Ristorante. She operated Luciana’s until taking the family business international in 1992, opening a cooking school and bed and breakfast at a 500-year-old Tuscan farmhouse.
Sitting among 18 acres of olive groves, Villa Lucia also produces a namesake line of extra-virgin artisan olive oil harvested and pressed by hand. The Villa Lucia olive oil, which continues to maintain the exacting standards of the International Olive Oil Council, is served at Luciana’s as well as other fine restaurants throughout Southern California.
Over the years, Luciana’s has won numerous awards and is known as one of Orange County’s most popular restaurants. Luciana’s offers a menu reflecting the Luhan family’s culinary heritage, updated for the evolving palates of today’s diners. The menu focuses on light and flavorful dishes made with the freshest ingredients, handmade pasta, and olive oil that the family presses at Villa Lucia.
Luciana’s is the perfect dining destination for family dinners, and date nights, as well as private parties, corporate events, and other special celebrations. Luciana’s is located in the Lantern District at 24312 Del Prado Ave. (off E. Pacific Coast Hwy.) in Dana Point. The restaurant is open Sunday to Wednesday from 5:30 – 9 p.m.; Thursday from 5 – 9 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday from 5 – 10 p.m. Holiday hours may vary.
Reservations can be made at www.lucianas.com or (949) 661-6500. To inquire about booking an event, please call (949) 416-0048.
