One of the most popular and successful restaurants in midtown Sacramento, Lucca has clearly figured out how to keep its diners happy. A magnet for well-clad business folks during the lunch hour, the restaurant offers up an eclectic, Mediterranean-inspired menu beloved by its many regular customers. The dinner crowd ranges from young hipsters who gravitate to the congenial bar area for designer cocktails and the kitchen’s popular small plates (the crispy zucchini chips are great bar fodder) to moony-eyed couples and clutches of old friends, eager to catch up after a long week. None seem to mind the fact that the small tables are crammed closely together or that the noise level can often drown out serious conversation—there is an irresistible, welcoming vibe at Lucca that makes those hassles very worthwhile. Bright, modern art hangs on gorgeous brick walls, exposed rafters and big earthy tiles add a charming rusticity, and low-dangling red glass lamps hover over diners like brightly lit jellyfish. Menu items are flavorful and prettily-presented, and there’s no question that you’ll find something appealing to devour. If you like to nibble, the small plates range from a delicious Greek-style baked shrimp with grilled olive bread to a creamy polenta, layered with Fontina cheese and a basil marinara sauce. Salads are a big seller at lunch—don’t miss the Governor’s Special Salad, inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger; or the seared salmon salad with melon and cucumber relish and toasted pistachios. Recommended entrées include the fantastic pappardelle, tossed with chunks of spicy sausage and mushroom ragu; and the melt-when-you-bite them braised short ribs. Do save room for dessert—especially when the pastry chef offers seasonal fruit tarts and cobblers. — Kira O'Donnell

Insider tip: Lucca has a beautiful (and covered) outdoor patio, adorned with lovely plants and showcasing a big fireplace and several water fountains.

Reservations: Recommended

Payment methods: AmEx, Discover Card, MasterCard, Visa

Alcohol: Full bar

Corkage fee: $15

Hours: Monday–Thursday: Lunch 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m.; Dinner 4–10 p.m.
Friday: Lunch 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m.; Dinner 4–11 p.m.
Saturday: Lunch Noon–4 p.m.; Dinner 4–11 p.m.
Sunday: Dinner only 4–9 p.m.