Lua Café - Abita Springs

Though the restaurant is slightly off the beaten path, the journey to find it is truly worthwhile. You'll be thrilled to explore a range of delectable Brazilian... read more Though the restaurant is slightly off the beaten path, the journey to find it is truly worthwhile. You'll be thrilled to explore a range of delectable Brazilian dishes in the charming setting of a plant nursery. The menu boasts classic Brazilian fare, along with an assortment of small plates reminiscent of tapas, including pastel, pão de queijo, and fried yucca. To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing your meal with a refreshing cold mate tea for a delightful and relaxing touch. After your meal, taking a leisurely stroll through the garden is a wonderful way to aid digestion, and you might even be tempted to purchase a plant or two for your own home. With outstanding food, a beautiful ambiance, and a welcoming staff, this restaurant is well worth the trip across the lake.

I would give the food and the staff's friendliness 4 stars. However, the ambiance could use some improvement. It was quite warm inside, and we had to wait a whi... read more I would give the food and the staff's friendliness 4 stars. However, the ambiance could use some improvement. It was quite warm inside, and we had to wait a while to place our order. On the bright side, the food came out quickly and was absolutely delicious—fresh and full of flavor. After we finished our meal, we had to wait quite a bit longer to get assistance with our dessert to-go and the bill. The staff seemed a bit overwhelmed, so having an extra server or cashier could really help. Despite this inconvenience, I'd definitely return for the amazing food. We shared a chicken pastel, a beef pastel, country chicken over polenta, fried yucca, and black beans. The chicken with polenta was bursting with flavor, and everything else was fantastic as well!

I first entered this lovely garden, which doubles as a nursery, and was greeted by a warm smile from a delightful lady. She patiently helped me with my order fo... read more I first entered this lovely garden, which doubles as a nursery, and was greeted by a warm smile from a delightful lady. She patiently helped me with my order for ribs served with rice and potato salad. After I placed my order, I reached for my wallet and realized I had left it at home! I asked if she could hold my order while I went back to get some cash, and inquired whether they accepted Apple Pay. The young lady went to ask the owner, who emerged from the kitchen with a charming Brazilian accent. He said, "Don't worry, just enjoy the food and pay me another time... that's OUR Apple Pay!" At that moment, I knew I had found a special place. The food was outstanding—the slow-braised ribs were bursting with rich flavors, and even the potato salad, which I typically don’t enjoy, was fantastic. The service was incredibly friendly and welcoming. Since they have only been open for about six months, I highly recommend visiting and supporting this local gem!

Wow! We had the crab and merliton pastels along with the beet salad with hearts of palm and tomato. The flavors in both the pastels and the salad were wonderful... read more Wow! We had the crab and merliton pastels along with the beet salad with hearts of palm and tomato. The flavors in both the pastels and the salad were wonderfully balanced. I should also mention that the café shares space with a really cool nursery, which makes for a lovely dining atmosphere. I didn't take any pictures because I didn't want to stop enjoying my pastel. This was only my first visit, but I’m definitely planning to return!

This place serves the best Brazilian food in the entire state! Be sure to try the pastel and the pork ribs—they're a must. The shrimp bobo and picanha steak are... read more This place serves the best Brazilian food in the entire state! Be sure to try the pastel and the pork ribs—they're a must. The shrimp bobo and picanha steak are also incredibly delicious.