Off a quiet side street in downtown San Luis, La Locanda provides a quaint and relaxed dining experience.
The restaurant is small and leaves you feeling you’ve had an incredible meal at a close friend’s house.
We visited on May 12 (Mother’s Day) as a family outing. The pizza oven was in need of repairs and was inoperable for the night. Initially we were disappointed (we love pizza!) but as we browsed the menu and heard the multiplicity of nightly specials, all was soon forgiven.
To start: the burrata caprese, beef carpaccio and escargot. The burrata cheese was extra creamy with a hint of tang. Peppery arugula and sharp Parmesan cheese served as the classic complement to beef carpaccio. On a personal note, I do not eat escargot, however, those in my party who did highly recommend it!
Dinner was a mix of classic Italian pasta (Lasagne, Gnocchi and Cacio e Pepe) and French-influenced entrees (Duck L’Orange, Rack of Lamb with mustard sauce and Baked Salmon).
The pasta at La Locanda is fresh and handmade. You can truly taste the difference! Cacio e Pepe is a simple dish, and when done right like at La Locanda, simply irresistible. Sharp pepper, smooth cheese and fresh al dente tagliatelle. A delight!
The gnocchi is served in your choice of sauce, in this case a Gorgonzola cream. The pillows of gnocchi were impossibly fluffy. Lasagne is served with a whipped bechemel and bolognese sauce adding a layer of depth and richness. I recommend an order to share for the table, just to try it.
The special entrees were well-executed and equally delicious. For a first time visit, I highly recommend the pasta dishes.
Dessert was, like dinner, a mix of Italian and French influence. The chocolate mousse towered above all else, soft and rich.
For something out-of-the-box, try the poached pears for dessert.
We are looking forward to going back to La Locanda to try the rest of the menu — and a pizza or two!
