Lugano Restaurant
(801) 412-9994
3364 South 2300 East
Salt Lake City,
UT
84109
40.6982
-111.8247
Neighborhood: East Millcreek
What People Are Saying About Lugano Restaurant
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
A happy buzz, even a clamor, mixes with the bustle from the kitchen in this L-shaped room. A renovated ice cream parlor with warm Tuscan colors and rustic tables, Lugano is a cozy and welcoming spot for faithful fans.
The Food
Straightforward northern Italian fare is accented with herbed marinades and cooked on a wood-burning stove, creating highly palatable flavors. Favorite starters include fresh mussels in a savory broth that calls for more bread for dipping; carpaccio with shaved Parmesan; and a bright beet salad with avocado, blue cheese and balsamic vinaigrette. Bistro classics such as marinated steak with potatoes and grilled salmon with lobster sauce are pleasing. Tasty surprises include grilled brine-cured pork loin medallions and fresh pasta with smoked bacon, Napa cabbage and, of all things, cauliflower.
User Reviews
heazzy
March 30, 2009
We tried this place out with a group of friends and we were so disgusted. One of the couples was about 20 min. late and the owner threw an absolute tantrum IN FRONT OF US to the hostess. We were completely ignored by our waitress who told us we had to order right then because they needed our table for the next reservation...AN HOUR FROM THEN. You DO NOT say that. We literally glanced at the menu, then our drinks were never refilled and I asked 3 times for bread. The food was just ok and we know Italian. We just wanted to leave so we rushed through dinner and gave them 15 min. to spare. On top of that gratuity was added at 20%. What a joke. By law you can refuse the added gratuity for larger parties and that we did. We will not spend our money here again.
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ammisco1
March 26, 2009
We haven't been here in years, and went the other night with friends. Our waitress was very good, and the specials were wonderful. I had sea bass with polenta, and it was excellent. However, I tasted my husband's pork loin, and it seemed dry to me. The risotto was incredible. It's a bit crowded in there which makes it a little less cozy for a romantic dinner. Overall, a great place.
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vinnieb333
March 25, 2009
I took my wife here for valentines day. We showed up shortly after opening time, there were a couple of other groups already seated. We stood up front for what seemed like an eternity. The wait felt very akward because there must have been 5 or 6 different employees look at us and pretend not to see us, some of them on two or three occasions. My wife asked me if this was some kind of private club, "I feel like they would rather we leave." Eventually we were seated by our waitress, it felt like we were saved from drowning and the lifeguard was not very happy she had to do so. After the waitress explained the specials to us she looked at us with raised eyebrows like she was hoping we didn't understand the fancy gourmet language. We ordered, the food showed up and holy cow it was awesome! This is the best Italian I have found in the state! The whole experience is almost tragic, tons of great food and employees leaving a bad taste in my mouth. This place needs some serious employee training and managing. I can't believe the employees were so horrible that I don't recommend you eat at the restruant that has the best food in Utah. (They do have take out!!)
read full reviewThe Details on Lugano Restaurant
What to Drink:
There are local microbrews on tap and an excellent wine list--mostly Californian with some Italian accents.
Parking:
Parking is allowed on side streets in the area.
Where to Sit:
During warm weather, request a table on the patio.
Category:
Italian, Bakeries, Restaurants, Diners
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, Discover, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Family-Friendly Dining, Romantic Dining, Special Occasion Dining, Fine Dining, Business Dining, Date Spot, Group Dining, Notable Wine List
