The gentrification of Locust Point continues as yet another old corner dive-bar is redeveloped as an attractive café (see also: Nasu Blanca, Aloha Tokyo). Luca’s Café occupies the spot that was once Truman’s, but virtually nothing remains of that tired old beer joint. In its place is a fresh-looking, inviting spot with a big bar area and small dining room downstairs and a larger, comfortable dining room upstairs. Gleaming floors and sunny Mediterranean colors blend well with the exposed brick walls and local artworks that hang on them. Lunchtime provides twists on classics like salads (Caesar, Italian deli), sandwiches (steak on ciabatta with roasted garlic, spicy roasted chicken chopped and tossed with red grapes) and pizzas. But the dinner menu is where the chef truly gets to shine with a fresh catch of the day, Hungarian goulash with gnocchi, and a Caribbean baked chicken with the chef’s own dry rub that’s already been touted on Elizabeth Large’s food blog as one of the best chicken dishes in the city. Open for lunch and dinner. 1230 E. Fort Ave., 443-708-5694
