When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Lucali
Why Lucali is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lucali is a renowned pizzeria located in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, founded in 2006 by local Mark Iacono. Set in a cozy, intimate space that once housed a neighborhood candy store, Lucali has become a cherished gathering spot for friends and families seeking authentic New York-style pizza and calzones. The pizzeria is celebrated for its brick oven-baked pies characterized by thin, lightly greased crusts and a perfect balance of cheese and sauce, often enhanced by generous fresh basil leaves. Lucali's ambiance is warm and inviting, adorned with candles and an open view of the chefs skillfully crafting pizzas right in front of guests. The venue is BYOB, attracting wine collectors and notable clientele, which adds to its unique charm and social appeal. Lucali's commitment to preserving a beloved community space and its history, combined with the founder's dedication to mastering pizza-making despite having no prior culinary experience, makes it a special place to meet up with friends and enjoy a memorable dining experience. The pizzeria's reputation has grown beyond Brooklyn, leading to expansions in other locations and even inspiring spin-offs such as Baby Luc's slice shop.
Here's what people think of Lucali
As of recent, Lucali holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1676 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Lucali for its outstanding pizza quality, highlighting the exceptional crust, fresh and flavorful basil, and well-balanced cheese to sauce ratio. Many visitors consider it a must-try spot, appreciating the tangible connection to Italian-American tradition and the creator's personal story of growing up in the neighborhood. Positive reviews often mention the cozy and intimate setting, friendly service, and the unique experience of watching pizzas made in a wood-fired brick oven. However, some critics note that the hype around Lucali may slightly inflate expectations, with some finding the flavor less remarkable compared to other iconic New York pizzerias like Di Fara. The intimate size of the restaurant leads to long waits and limited seating, which can challenge some guests seeking a quicker meal. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is that Lucali delivers a very good pizza experience that justifies the effort to visit. The blend of historical significance, artisanal pizza making, and welcoming atmosphere contributes to its enduring appeal as a prime destination to meet friends for great pizza in Brooklyn.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
J
Amazing thin, crispy, and simple pizza! Barely any grease, absolutely no flop. I ordered via DoorDash so it sat for a trip and still was great. Almost impossible to try in NYC!
Lulu Utami
Amazing pizza! Im asian and really picky with pizza. This one is really good and tasty. Only the crust was so big and more like cracker, if only they have a dip to the crust maybe that would be better. The part that i really not expecting is the dessert calzone which is goood! I thought that will be cold creamy calzone and turns out it is a warm creamy cheesy things, mind blown! The downside is only the high price.
Tiffany Steinke
Do your self a favor and get a pizza the action! You don’t need me to tell you this pizza is the best but crust me it’s hands down delicious. Fresh flavorful pure pizza perfection. We got a classic cheese pie half and half vegan. Un beatable espresso and impeccable service. We dined alfresco and found parking immediately. There’s a lot across the street too. If you know anyone putting out better crisp crust pies with premium toppings please let me know.
Wejdan B
Delicious pizza with a perfect balance—light but still satisfying. Loved that the pepperoni is beef, not pork.
Borderlessfoodie
Pizza to die for and worth putting up with the South Beach traffic. The tomato sauce stood out the most and definitely didn’t taste straight out of a can. The dough was equally good. It is thin crust and chewy at the same time. Bravo to Mark Lacono. Of all places, glad he chose Miami other than his flagship place in Brooklyn.
How to reach Lucali
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Website: None
Why Lucali may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lucali with your friends?
Lucali, located in Brooklyn's Carroll Gardens, stands as a go-to destination to gather with friends for an unforgettable culinary experience centered around some of the best pizza New York City offers. Despite its reputation for long lines and limited seating, the sheer quality of the food and the unique, intimate ambiance make the wait and effort worthwhile. Inviting your group here presents a memorable bonding opportunity over pizza crafted with passion, featuring a wafer-thin, crisp dough and fresh, vibrant tomato sauce. The cozy candlelit interior, complemented by a crackling brick oven, creates a warm backdrop that's both comfy and distinctive for a shared meal. Plus, Lucali’s policy of no reservations means everyone starts on level ground—there’s a subtle thrill in rallying together to secure seats and share in the anticipation. The BYOB (bring your own bottle) option further adds to the festive spirit, allowing groups to pair their meal with their favorite drinks, making the gathering feel more personalized and celebratory. If you and your friends value quality food, intimate vibes, and the communal experience of discovering a highly acclaimed spot, Lucali delivers exactly that.
What activities can you enjoy at Lucali during a group meetup?
While Lucali primarily focuses on delivering an exceptional pizza dining experience, the activities and ambiance naturally encourage engaging social interaction. Firstly, the experience of queuing together before entry offers time to chat, catch up, and build anticipation. Once inside, the rustic, candlelit atmosphere encourages relaxed conversation and connection as you share in each other’s enjoyment of the artisanal pizza and calzones. The open kitchen adds an interactive element—watching chefs hand-roll dough with floured wine bottles and the flames roaring in the brick oven is captivating and gives an authentic glimpse into expert pizza crafting. Lucali’s BYOB policy lets groups bring their own beverages, making the dining experience more flexible and sociable as everyone can contribute their favorite drinks, sparking conversation. Sharing pizzas and calzones will inspire communal dining culture, encouraging swapping bites and opinions on the flavors. The old-school music playing softly in the background offers a nostalgic vibe to enhance the overall sensory experience. In summary, Lucali supports a group meetup by providing a multi-sensory, interactive dining occasion that brings friends together through exceptional food, atmosphere, and shared moments.
Why is Lucali perfect for food-loving groups?
Lucali shines as a perfect venue for food-loving groups because it specializes in straightforward, expertly made pizza that elevates a shared meal into something special. The meticulous attention to dough texture, sauce flavor, and topping balance ensures that each slice is a standout, allowing groups to enjoy a universally loved dish at its finest. Their calzones, notable enough to inspire repeat visits, add variety for a group seeking a diverse taste experience. The moderate seating capacity of about 30 creates an intimate space, ideal for conversations without overwhelming noise or distractions common in larger restaurants. Because it’s BYOB, groups can customize their drink pairings, accommodating different preferences and enhancing the meal without pushy upsells or expensive drink menus. The staff and owner are known for their friendly and authentic approach, which contributes positively to the group’s overall experience. Plus, the location in Carroll Gardens offers a charming neighborhood vibe, an added appeal for groups wanting a casual yet special outing. Together, these factors make Lucali especially suited for food enthusiasts craving top-tier pizza and convivial company.
What should you know about waiting and seating for group meetups at Lucali?
One notable aspect for groups planning to meet at Lucali is managing expectations around wait times and seating policies. Lucali does not take reservations, meaning walk-ins queue for seating, often for an hour or more, especially during peak times. Groups should plan to arrive early—sometimes line formation begins well before standard dinner hours. Although waiting outside in colder weather may pose a challenge, the anticipation of the acclaimed pizza helps soften the inconvenience. Lucali’s seating capacity is limited to approximately 30 seats, which means larger groups may need to split up or reserve spots by staggering arrival times if possible. When staff greet guests, they provide specific instructions on return times to be seated, organizing flow efficiently despite demand. The staff's communication has been described as firm but professional, ensuring fairness in seating allocation. To make the wait enjoyable, groups can prepare by bringing along portable chairs (some do), engaging in lively conversation, or even scouting local shops nearby. Being prepared and managing expectations will enhance the meetup experience without frustration.
What makes Lucali's pizza and menu stand out for group dining?
Lucali’s food offering is simple yet extraordinary, with pizza at its heart. The pizzas are made with a wafer-thin, crispy crust that still retains a light, airy texture inside. The tomato sauce is fresh, slightly sweet, and balanced just right to complement the dough and toppings without overwhelming. This balance creates a complex yet familiar flavor profile that appeals to a wide array of tastes, making it ideal for groups where preferences vary. Their calzones provide a perfect alternative or addition for shared plates, stuffed with quality cheeses and fillings to offer a memorable flavor punch. The menu’s focus on quality over quantity means diners can fully appreciate each item rather than face overwhelming choices, ideal for group dining decisions. Bringing your own beverages allows the group to customize pairings, from wine to craft beers or soft drinks. Overall, Lucali’s menu encourages sharing and tasting, perfect for group dynamics centered on exploring great food together.
How does Lucali's atmosphere contribute to the group dining experience?
Lucali offers an intimate, warm atmosphere that fosters connection and conversation—key ingredients for a successful group meetup. The dining room’s soft candlelight paired with the glow from the roaring brick oven creates an inviting and homey environment. The open kitchen allows guests to observe the artisanal pizza-making process, adding interest and a communal feeling as everyone watches chefs at work. Old classic soul and R&B tunes play gently in the background, contributing to a laid-back vibe where guests feel comfortable lingering over their meals. The ambiance is neither overly trendy nor loud, striking a balance that suits casual socials as well as special occasions. This vibe encourages groups to take their time savoring food and each other’s company. The blend of rustic charm and meticulous culinary craft makes Lucali more than a restaurant—it becomes an experience that unites friends through shared moments in a memorable setting.
What is the overall value and service like at Lucali for group visits?
Lucali is widely praised for its fantastic food quality and authentic experience, which many describe as worth every minute of waiting. Service at Lucali can feel a bit stiff due to firm rules about waiting and seating, which help manage the high demand fairly. However, the staff and owner maintain a genuine friendliness and attentiveness once inside, enhancing the overall group dining experience. The value comes from the combination of exceptional pizza and a unique, intimate setting rather than bargain prices. Groups that prioritize top-tier food and a distinctive communal environment will find Lucali delivers on those expectations. While the waiting process is challenging, many guests agree that the payoff—an expertly crafted pizza and memorable atmosphere—justifies the effort. For those visiting with friends or family who appreciate quality and authenticity, Lucali offers excellent service and food value that makes for a satisfying and enjoyable group outing.