Description
The owner of Luigi's on North San Pedro opened this near-Southside eatery just as Southtown was becoming trendy. A short stroll north from the hot arts strip that runs along South Alamo Street to the Blue Star Arts Complex, La Focaccia seems to have hit upon a formula for success. For an intimate evening, avoid the banquet room-like expansion and take a seat in the original dining room, which is cozy despite its size. A piano man plays on weekend evenings, and one of Luigi's friends offers operatic arias when he's so inclined.

A good wine list is combined with solid Italian specialties, including succulent chicken and veal dishes, fresh pastas and original pizzas. Start with the olive-oil drizzled capers and carpaccio or the calamari, some of the best in town. A salad bar includes delicious marinated specialties like mushrooms, artichoke hearts and red peppers.