An authentic Italian brunch at Luigia

When I first stepped into Luigia at Rixos JBR, I felt like I had been transported straight to the heart of Italy. The atmosphere immediately struck me as a perfect balance between contemporary elegance and the warm, traditional charm that Italy is so well known for. From the inviting décor to the vibrant buzz of conversation, I knew I was in for something special.

Luigia, named after the founder’s grandmother, feels more like a home than just a restaurant. It’s a place where family and tradition are at the core of everything, from the food to the service. The restaurant prides itself on offering “The Best of Italy,” and as I learned more about their philosophy, it became clear that they don’t take this statement lightly. Every ingredient is carefully sourced, ensuring the freshest, highest-quality components make it to your plate.

What truly captured my attention was the authenticity of their offerings. There’s a palpable respect for time-honored Italian recipes, passed down from one generation to the next, and you can taste that dedication in every bite. The menu is filled with options that celebrate the essence of Italian cuisine, but what stands out most is the pizza. Pizza, after all, is in their DNA—crafted with precision and passion that you rarely encounter elsewhere.

Since opening their first location in Geneva in 2010, Luigia’s pizzas have brought them incredible success, and it’s easy to see why. Their pizza dough, for example, is the result of extensive research and care. Left to rise for 72 hours, the dough is soft, light, and the perfect base for any of their over 60 pizza varieties. Watching the pizzaioli (pizza masters) work their magic in the open kitchen was like watching an artist paint a masterpiece—each pizza emerging as a work of art. For five years in a row, they’ve been awarded “Tre Spicchi” by Gambero Rosso, and after tasting their pizza, I can confidently say they deserve it.

During my visit, I had the pleasure of attending their Saturday brunch, and it was a memorable experience. With a live singer setting the mood and a view of the bustling pizza oven, it was the perfect blend of entertainment and indulgence. The chefs work in an open space, allowing diners like me to watch the magic unfold as they bake their famous pizzas, which is truly a treat.

Now, let’s talk about the food, starting with the Antipasti. I began with the Assortimento di Fritture Italiane, which featured crispy potato croquettes, supplì Romano, and mozzarella bites that melted in your mouth. The Polpettine al Sugo alla Napoletana, homemade veal meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, were a comforting nod to home-cooked Italian goodness. One bite, and I could almost imagine sitting at an Italian family table.

The Bruschetta Alici e Burrata was another standout. The creaminess of the Pugliese burrata paired beautifully with the saltiness of anchovies and the sweetness of datterino tomatoes. It was a burst of fresh flavors, all perfectly balanced. As a seafood lover, I also couldn’t resist the Calamari Fritti. It was everything fried calamari should be light, crispy, and paired with a tangy tartare sauce. The fried potato croquettes stuffed with mozzarella were a savory treat.

For the main event, I opted for their renowned pizza. The Miracolata pizza, with buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil, lived up to its heavenly name. Each bite was a celebration of Italian simplicity done right. The flavors were bold yet familiar, comforting yet exciting. It’s no wonder their pizza has received so much acclaim.

If you’re more inclined toward traditional Italian mains, the Gnocchetti alla Sorrentina Gratinati al Forno is a must-try. This oven-gratin potato gnocchi, smothered in tomato sauce and fior di latte, had a wonderfully soft texture with a cheesy, comforting finish. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and is comfort food to the core.

For seafood lovers, the Branzino al Forno is a perfect choice. The oven-baked seabass, paired with datterini tomatoes, black olives, and potatoes, was light, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. I loved the fact that it was gentle on the seasonings which meant that I could actually taste the fish and its fresh flavors. If you’re craving something heartier, the Milanese di Vitello, a veal Milanese cutlet served with a simple yet refreshing rocket salad, hit the spot.

Of course, no Italian meal is complete without a sweet ending. So for dessert, we enjoyed their Luigia Nutelline which translates as fried pizza dough donuts with Nutella and hazelnuts alongside some fantastic Italian coffee. 

Final words

Luigia is not just a place to dine; it’s a full-fledged Italian experience. Whether you’re here for a casual pizza night or a celebratory brunch with family and friends, this venue effortlessly transports you to the streets of Italy. Every bite celebrates tradition, every dish crafted with love and authenticity. For anyone, like me, who has a deep appreciation for real Italian cuisine, Luigia is an absolute must-visit.

As we left the restaurant, full and happy, I knew one thing for sure: I’d be back, and next time, I’d bring even more friends and family to share in the joy that is Luigia.