Reviews
I loved the Bohemian feel to this mostly Italian restaurant. Fresh gnocchi every lunchtime! There's outside seating that overlooks the river, and on nice days the front of the restaurant is open, allowing people sitting in the couches and chairs an al fresco feeling. I ordered a minestrone soup- even though the place was busy my soul was served promptly. I can't wait to go back! Relaxing music played.
Food, location, and restaurant vibes inside and outside on the river are all fantastic! We had the veggie frittata and grilled polenta, which were both delicious. My espresso was wonderful and we sat on the couch outside on the river. Absolutely fabulous place to enjoy food, drinks and people watching! We’ll be trying the pizza next!
I take my coffee a little too seriously, and this is absolutely the best cappuccino in Ashland. They make it with Alexandre A2 milk, which gives it the most creamy, velvety texture. The fresh made biscotti pairs perfectly with it. I also love coming here in the evenings for a glass of wine or a quick–but high quality–bite to eat. Really awesome atmosphere, just like you're in a little Italian village. So grateful this cafe opened up in our town!
La Lumina is a great new addition to Ashland's plaza. I like the "Little Italy" theme and I think it makes the space feel unique while also still fitting into Ashland's vibe. The cappuccino and frittata were good, the olive oil cake was great! I am excited to come back to try all the other items on their menu, especially the pastries. I do agree with some of the other reviews that it's a little bit loud inside, probably because it's such a big open (and therefore echoey) space without much to dampen the sound. I am hoping they'll find ways to address this as they continue to find their groove as a new business. I also agree that most of the tables being arranged in a regular grid gives the main floor area a bit less welcoming atmosphere than the cute little couch seating areas in the front and back, and I'm hoping maybe they'll find a way to add one or two additional cozy seating spots.
The gnocchi was not good at all. It looks pretty but the gnocchi are gummy, and the tomato sauce tastes like cheap grocery store sauce and there was no seasoning. The focaccia was not good either. They were out of half the lunch items at 12pm and the ordering system was strange. They had most of the food ready in hot plates next to the register where you order, but you had to wait 20 minutes for them to bring it to you. They were out of focaccia but then brought some out as a side, they were out of silverware and we had to wait to eat so they could bring out silverware. And they were playing Mexican music inside… All quite strange and don’t recommend for lunch or dinner. Sounds like coffee and pastries are their forte. I don’t typically leave negative reviews but hopefully this creates a positive change.