Pizzeria Luca: A Hidden Italian Gem in Albuquerque
When it comes to authentic Italian flavors and delicious brick oven pizza, Pizzeria Luca in Albuquerque’s Far Northeast Heights is a must-visit. Located at 8850 Holly Ave NE, this local Italian restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, a well-curated menu, and an impressive daily happy hour that makes it one of the best deals in town.
I’ve been to Pizzeria Luca multiple times, and every visit confirms why it’s a local favorite. Whether you’re stopping in for happy hour, craving handcrafted pizza, or looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy Italian comfort food, this place delivers on flavor and value.
The Atmosphere: Classic & Cozy
Stepping into Pizzeria Luca, you’re greeted by warm lighting, rustic wood tables, and a touch of nostalgia. The walls are lined with classic Italian movie posters, giving the restaurant a charming old-world feel. It’s casual yet intimate, making it an excellent spot for a date night, a relaxed dinner with friends, or a quick happy hour meetup.
The outdoor patio is also a nice touch, especially for those Albuquerque evenings when you want to enjoy your meal in the open air.
Happy Hour: The Best Deal in Town
One of the biggest draws to Pizzeria Luca is its happy hour, which runs every day from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Finding a great happy hour in Albuquerque that runs seven days a week is rare, and Luca offers some of the best value around.
What We Ordered
We wanted to keep things light, so we shared an order of their toasted cheese ravioli, paired with two fresh salads:
- Toasted Cheese Ravioli – Perfectly crispy on the outside, filled with rich, creamy cheese, and served with house-made marinara sauce and mixed greens.
- Caesar Salad – A classic done right—crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and just the right balance of Parmesan and croutons.
- Arugula Salad – Light, fresh, and peppery, with a simple vinaigrette that let the flavors shine.
To go with our food, we took advantage of the fantastic drink specials:
- $6 for a generous 9 oz. glass of wine
- Prosecco for just $6
- Select local beers for only $4
When it comes to quality Italian food at affordable prices, this is a standout deal in Albuquerque.
Brick Oven Pizza: The Star of the Show
While we didn’t get pizza this time, Pizzeria Luca is known for its authentic brick oven pizza, and it’s definitely what keeps people coming back. Their Neapolitan-style crust is the perfect balance of crispy, airy, and slightly charred, giving each bite that signature wood-fired flavor.
Some popular pizza options include:
- Margherita – A simple but perfect combination of fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomato sauce.
- Diavola – A spicy option featuring pepperoni, Calabrian chiles, and hot honey.
- Funghi – A white pizza loaded with wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and fresh herbs.
No matter which one you choose, the high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship shine through in every bite.
More Than Just Pizza: Italian Classics & Salads
Beyond the pizza and happy hour, Pizzeria Luca also offers a solid selection of fresh salads and appetizers. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, their salads are crisp, well-balanced, and generously portioned.
Their house-made marinara and classic Italian flavors make every dish feel authentic and well-crafted.
Location & Contact Information
Pizzeria Luca is conveniently located in Albuquerque’s Far Northeast Heights. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite pizza spot or a visitor exploring Albuquerque’s food scene, this restaurant is easy to find and well worth the trip.
📍 Address: 8850 Holly Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122
📞 Phone: (505) 797-8086
🌐 Website: pizzerialuca.com
They are open for lunch, dinner, and daily happy hour from 2:00–6:00 PM, making it a great stop anytime you're craving authentic Italian flavors.
Service & Experience
Service at Pizzeria Luca has always been friendly and efficient. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to recommend dishes or wine pairings. Even during busy hours, the atmosphere remains welcoming and relaxed, making it a go-to spot for casual Italian dining in Albuquerque.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Pizzeria Luca
If you’re looking for fantastic brick oven pizza, fresh salads, or a great happy hour in Albuquerque, Pizzeria Luca is a must-visit. The combination of quality ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and unbeatable value makes it one of the best Italian restaurants in Albuquerque.
Why We Love Pizzeria Luca
- Authentic Italian flavors with house-made ingredients
- Brick oven pizza with perfectly charred crusts
- Daily happy hour (2:00–6:00 PM) with amazing deals
- Casual, welcoming atmosphere with nostalgic Italian decor
- Great wine and drink specials at unbeatable prices
Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, salads, or just a great glass of wine, Pizzeria Luca is well worth a visit. Try it—you’ll like it!
Looking for More Hands-On Food Experiences in Albuquerque?
If you love food and are looking for unique culinary experiences in Albuquerque, consider joining a hands-on pizza-making class at Sherwood Coffee n Bread. Our classes offer an interactive way to learn the art of wood-fired pizza making while enjoying fresh, high-quality ingredients. Perfect for foodies, locals, and visitors looking to experience something new.
Check out our upcoming classes and book your spot today!