Lyss L.
Yelp
The insane line for seating was a testament to its popularity, but my friend and I, being advocates of bar seating, managed to get in without a lengthy wait.
I ventured to Lucia's primarily because a friend, who happens to be gluten-free, swears by it. The anticipation was high, and I must admit, the gluten-free pizza dough was indeed a standout. It strikes the ideal balance--airy, not too crunchy, and not too soft. It's clear that they've mastered the art of crafting the perfect dough, and it's undoubtedly the star of the show. While waiting for our pizza, we opted for the kale salad, which turned out to be fresh, flavorful, and a perfect prelude to the main event.
While the gluten-free options cater to a specific audience, I couldn't help but feel that for someone who isn't gluten-sensitive, there are better pizza places in Berkeley, minus the long waits. The ambiance of Berkeley, with its diverse culinary offerings and the possibility of stumbling upon hidden gems without a wait, is part of what I love about the city.
The saving grace at Lucia's, besides the exceptional dough, was the drinks. Our bartender was fantastic - friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about crafting the perfect drink. The drinks were a solid 10/10, and you could tell they were made with care and expertise. The bartender's enthusiasm added a delightful touch to the overall experience.
Lucia's itself is a cute Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, but the seating is on the tight side, making it a bit cramped. It's a great spot if you're accommodating gluten-free friends or seeking a specific dough experience, but for me, it might not be the first choice when flying solo.