
Luigi's is a new-ish restaurant in the Huntington area that serves Italian food.

I am a big fan of Italian food and grew up with lasagna, spaghetti, etc. In fact, my great-grandfather was an Italian immigrant.

In both the Northern Panhandle and North-Central West Virginia, there is a big Italian influence and lots of amazing Italian food.

But here in Charleston, not so much - so I alway think there's room for more. Especially in the Metro Valley.

Luigi's is located along Route 60 in a plaza, so parking is easy. The interior was basic, but roomy. The menu is huge to accommodate all of the possible Italian dishes you might think of - and then some: pastas, pizza, strombolis, subs, seafood, salads, wings, fried appetizers, the list goes on.

I started with some garlic knots with cheese. These poppable bites were delish dunked in some marinara. These are familiar at many area restaurants, so nothing out of the ordinary. But a solid start.

My entree came with garlic bread, which is fine. I like mine more soft and just drenched in butter.

And a simple side salad was not skimpy on the croutons or cheese, so I can't complain.

My main entree was fettuccine carbonara. I have really high expectations for carbonara, because one of my all-time favorite meals is carbonara from Puglioni's in Morgantown. This wasn't quite as creamy and indulgent, but it wasn't bad. I wouldn't hate a bulb more of garlic, but that's just my own personal preference. If you're in the mood for some rich, satisfying pasta, this will still hit the spot.

Grade: B