By Roberta Dunn
Trattoria Lucia is a casual, warm and inviting trattoria with wonderful food billed as "Italian cuisine prepared from the heart." It's the type of neighborhood restaurant I wished I had in my neighborhood. The decor brings to mind Tuscany with its warm terra cotta colored walls and subdued lighting, and the ambiance on a recent Friday night was just right - lively but not too loud - with families, couples on dates, groups of single guys and gals and older couples, all looking comfortable, happy and enjoying their meals. Trattoria Lucia is a family affair. Karen (Calle) will usually greet you at the door and make you feel right at home while husband Izan is the talented chef who sends out those delicious Italian dishes. Karen's cousin Joe Villanti mans the bar and her dad John was on hand recently meeting and greeting. The menu is large and varied, with specials as well and making a choice was not easy. We started with Eggplant Rollanti, which was outstanding. The eggplant was tender yet crisp with a filling of ricotta so light, it was almost like a souffle, topped with a tasty fresh tomato sauce. This was one of the best renditions I've ever tasted. The Mozzarella in Carozza and baked clams were also winners. For seafood lovers I'd recommend the special Linguine Lucia, which is not on the menu but pictured on the colorful menu at the front desk. It features clams, mussels. shrimp, scungilli and lobster on a bed of linguine with a flavorful light tomato sauce. This is my favorite, although I haven't had everything on the menu - yet. My dining companion opted for Veal Cappricciosa. A tender, thin breaded veal cutlet topped with chopped tomato and arugula, a tasty combination of flavors. Portions are large, so go with a group of people so you can share and get to taste more of the tempting dishes on the menu. Although we really didn't need dessert, Karen insisted we try a Belgian chocolate souffle cake, which was so incredibly rich, it was both sinful and heavenly at the same time. I managed to sample the tiramisu as well and this version was perfect, light and velvety. As I mentioned the menu is quite large, so we are planning a return visit or two. Prices are very reasonable and the quality is excellent. Trattoria Lucia also offers catering, on or off premises, Monday night Italian Festivals, Psychic Tuesdays, and live jazz. Call for information and reservations. You won't be disappointed! Trattoria Lucia is located in Bellerose, Nassau County on 247-63 Jericho Turnpike (off the Cross Island Parkway). The telephone number is 718-343-2185.