Cala Luna Restaurant — Restaurant in Town of North Hempstead

I have a new favorite restaurant! Paid a second visit to Cala Luna this evening and, again, it did not disappoint. My first visit was on a weeknight. Although the restaurant was quiet, the food was exciting and exceptional. Started with two large empanadas, which had a chicken filling, presented on a plate with an avocado cream sauce and balsamic drizzle. They were crispy and the filling was satisfying. Also shared the Cala Luna Salad, which added sweet and tender green beans cut into tiny pieces, thinly-sliced sun-dried tomatoes and large thin strips of parmesan cheese to a mix of fresh mescaline greens. My entree was the sesame seed crusted tuna (sushi grade), which was melt-in-the-mouth tender. The rice which accompanied it was molded into an attractive dome and seasoned perfectly. The diner who joined me had the hand-cut fettuccini with veal meatballs and he was equally impressed with the quality of his food. Tonight, manager Rana seated us and set the tone for another relaxing and delicious meal. Our appetizers included the stuffed zucchini blossoms, prepared tempura-style, which were crisp and presented on a bed of dressed mescaline greens and accompanied by a tomato sauce. For tonight's entree, I tried the branzino with roasted potatoes, Brussel sprouts and cauliflower. The skin on the two filets was crisp and the roasted vegetables were a perfect accompaniment. Unfortunately, on both occasions, I had no room for dessert, so I can't comment on that. Portion size at this restaurant is generous without overdoing it. I think next time, maybe I'll share an entree so I'll have room to try one. These days, it's hard to find a restaurant that has consistent high quality and good value. Looking forward to...

Quaint but spacious corner bistro. Parking is a challenge but worth fighting for. A diminutive but mighty wine list provides the proper support to a bevy of soulful, disparate and delicious appetizers. We had a Chardonnay and Montepulciano D'Abruzzo, which both, sent us to wine heaven. The bread service can be improved with a fresher, warmer, more savory basket but the complimentary Eggplant Caponata was a DIVINE SMEAR! This could be eaten alone! Butter (disappointingly cold) was also provided. There are "Sharing" Apps but we chose from the individuals, although we did share them. The fresh Burrata and Cherry Tomatoes were a burst of Italy's agriculture transported tableside. A must! The Artichoke Carpaccio is a great light bite of tangy delectable goodness. The Linguini and Clams were a zesty al dente slurp of shellfish tastiness. DELISH! The Chicken Luciano is nice paillard topped with a vibrant Arugula salad that gives it flavor. It is cooked perfectly but definitely could use Parmesan and salt in the coating, as it needed a bit of seasoning. The salad was necessary. Oversll, a good, healthy and bountiful portion. As if we didn't have enough greens, we had the robust and spicy Broccoli Rabe, which was fantastic. No room for dessert. A destination...

This was a pleasant find in the midst of Mineola. They have brunch, lunch, and dinner and it seems to be served all day. I love the service. Our server didn’t look friendly at first but he did warm up and recommended the Porto pino flatbread and was having a chat with us towards the end. Our glasses of water were always filled. Never needed to ask to have it refilled. From the appetizers to the pancakes to the steak to the dessert, everything was superb and delicious. The calamari had just the right amount of salt on it. The Porto pino with pear, mascarpone, and pistachio pesto did not disappoint either. I can see why it’s a favorite of customers. The steak - even well done for my kid - was quite tender and I don’t eat steak well done. I was able to cut the steak with a butter knife. The mashed potatoes with steak was a great combination with each bite. Now to the dessert: never had to eat dessert with a steak knife but that’s what the napolean came with because it wasn’t something you can eat with your hands. The flourless chocolate cake was delicious as well. The bread pudding was warm and went well with gelato. I can’t not recommend this little restaurant because I will be revisiting to try their...