INTRODUCING: luca
B ringing Spanish, Mediter- ranean, and Latin flavors to North Town Center, Luca is under construction with plans to open later this year! “ It’s going to be the coolest restaurant in Nueces County, a spot you’d find in Madrid, Barcelona, or Miami,” says Kris Amundsen, who will run the restaurant with wife Lisa. The couple has long operated neighbor- ing Lisabella’s Bistro and will bring the same exceptional service to an entirely new concept. “Luca has been a passion and vision for us a long time,” Kris says. Contrasting the French-style menu at Lisabella’s, Luca will feature a Spanish-eclectic menu with Latin leanings. Enjoy steak, lamb, quail, and seafood, accented by the tang of chimichurri, charred lemon, garlic, and pickled poblano. A tequila bar and full selection of high-quality, Old-World wines from Spain and South America complement the fare. Backed by a bright pink bar, interiors feature curved, green booths as part of a pink-mauve-and-green color scheme, while lush greenery and bright blooms evoke Mediterranean patios. Selections reflect ideas Lisa and her family have dreamed about for years, and she’s en- listed Paige Schnell of Tracery Interiors Design Studio in Inlet Beach, Florida,
to interpret and execute the look . ‘It’s going to be fun and lively, with plants everywhere,” Kris says. Named to honor Kris and Lisa’s son Luke, the restaurant is a family affair. The couple’s son John Amundson will work as Luca’s general manager, and son-in-law Chef Spencer Cox will move from Lisa- bella’s to helm Luca’s kitchen during its opening season. Other family members and long-time Lisabella’s wait staff will also help launch the new eatery. Not to worry, Lisabella’s fans! A new chef working alongside Spencer this summer at Lisabella’s will prep to keep it humming. “Lisabella’s is a well-oiled ma- chine,” Kris says, assuring guests that stan- dards will remain high at both restaurants. “Our family has a culture of excellence.”
36 NEW AT NORTH
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