50 Foodie Faves: Trattoria Lucca

Ensconced on a corner of the Cannonborough/Elliotborough neighborhood, with wide plate glass windows that reflect the candlelight within, Lucca has the feel of a true Italian trattoria. Here, chef Ken Vedrinski is able to really show his stuff. Pasta, which requires not only skill but passion, is pure elegance in his hands. Tagliolini with Caper’s Inlet clams, broccoli rabe, Calabrese chiles, and mortadella exemplifies Vedrinski’s complex flavor profiles and his commitment to local products. Whether it be gnudi, tuffoli, or trofie, you can expect perfect execution, exciting sauces, and frequent changes, giving you even more excuses to return.  41-A Bogard St., (843) 973-3323, www.luccacharleston.com