Luciano’s is the newest addition to Glenelg’s Marina Pier precinct reputable for top restaurants and relaxing seaside views. Named after their Grandfather’s nickname, Luciano brings the welcoming Italian lifestyle to Marina Pier as it captures authentic flavours, energy and vibe inspired by the Amalfi Coast.

Their family ethos is all about living the good life. Quality food and drink, fun times and treasuring all those little shared moments of joy with good company. Luciano’s entrance is grand and elegantly styled with sandstone walls and soft downlights. With 300 people capacity and 180 seating it is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are after formal dining for intimate dinners and celebrations or if you are just wanting a casual feed in their outdoor area.

Luciano’s front of house staff provides impeccable service and there is an open kitchen that offers glimpses of Chefs preparing food. Being the first Adelaide restaurant to have dual frontage, you can view picturesque scenes of the sea and the marina.

Tantalise your taste buds with the Kingfish Crudo. Beautiful fresh Kingfish thinly sliced lying in a bed of bergamot, blood orange dressing and lemon balm. The perfect starter to any meal.

Next, we have the Pork and Beef Polpette. This classic Italian meatball dish ticks all the boxes when it comes to flavour. Tender and moist pork and beef meatballs served in a rich tomato sugo with ricotta salata. You just want the entire bowl to yourself.

Luciano’s pizza oven is hand built and can reach up to 400 degrees, resulting in the dough puffing around the edges of the pizza trapping the flavours of the topping. This is evident with the Maiala pizza. The crust was delicious soft yet chewy. The toppings include San Marzano, fior di latte, hot salame, ham and parmesan. An authentic Italian pizza with the view of the Sea. Perfection.

The Pappardelle Bolognese is as authentic as it gets. Beef, tomato sugo and parmesan. Simple ingredients but cooked so well. The pasta is perfectly al dente the delicious sauce coating every strand of pasta for maximum flavour.

Twice Cooked Pork Belly is a standout dish. A generous piece of Pork Belly cooked until it is soft and tender. Served with seasoned asparagus, mustard as well as green apple for the perfect combination for flavours.

If you are looking at ordering some side dishes, make sure the Twice Cooked Patate Novella is on the list. These little crunchy golden potatoes are seasoned with rosemary, confit garlic and sea salt. A very moreish dish, you just can’t stop at one.

Lastly, there is the Broccolini side dish. Luciano’s twist on a basic broccolini dish is worth a standing ovation. This dish is elevated with nduja butter and pangrattato. The broccolini is charred for that smokey flavour and the pangrattato adds a bit of texture to the dish.

Luciano’s menu boasts modern Italian dining. Authentic good quality Italian dishes for all to appreciate. Just 20 minutes away from the Adelaide CBD, you can enjoy a dining experience that will exceed your expectations. They are open 7 days a week from 11:30am–9pm at Marina Pier Glenelg.

Words by Dao Doan from The Dining Chair

WHERE: Shop 13-15, Marina Pier, Glenelg