I couldn't WAIT to take my boyfriend here! I used to meet my friends at the Buca in Mayfield Heights eons ago. Although I'm sad that there's only one Buca left in our area (Strongsville) I was thrilled with our experience!
The hostess took us on the legendary tour of all the rooms and the kitchen (on our way to our table) which is a must-see for new diners! She pointed out our chefs and the illustrious "chef's tables" that can be reserved by patrons that want an "up close and personal" experience inside the kitchen.
Every room has a theme and we were seated in the back corner of the Cardinal's Room complete with red and gold touches. There is also the Pope room (featuring a glass enclosed Pope bust in the center of the huge round table), the wine room with over 400 bottles of wine on the ceiling, the Poster Room with a vintage inspired arched ceiling, and several other kitschy rooms. The Mayfield Heights location had a "Frank Sinatra" room which is sadly not showcased at the Strongsville location.
We ordered the Caprese Salad and the baked Ziti with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, the Penne Arrabiata with spicy Italian sausage, and (seriously?) the Tiramsu. We were in heaven!
Friendliness prevails at this restaurant - from the hostess to our server Lindy to the other diners in our room! a VERY friendly, homey, romantic atmosphere!