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Italian restaurant in Lawrence, Kansas
What should I order at The Basil Leaf Café?
What to order
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Lasagna
Recommended multiple times for being very good, delicious, and served in a massive portion. Reviewers specifically praised it as a standout pasta dish that did not disappoint.
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Tortellini Alla Vodka
Mentioned more than once as fantastic and done very well. Reviewers liked its rich flavor and considered it one of the best pasta choices on the menu.
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Cajun Penne
Called delicious in multiple reviews, with one diner saying their husband loved it. It stands out as a flavorful pasta dish that gets consistent praise.
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Seared Salmon
Repeatedly praised for being perfectly seared, cooked medium rare, and tasting heavenly. Reviewers highlighted it as a sign the kitchen really knows how to cook salmon.
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Caesar Salad
Mentioned as fantastic with a bright, delicious dressing and as a well-executed side salad. It was consistently described in very positive terms.
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Tortellini Carbonara
Described as absolutely delicious and part of a memorable meal. Reviewers enjoyed it enough to mention it alongside other standout dishes.
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Lobster Ravioli
Strongly recommended by a reviewer who said it 'slapped so hard' they wanted to lick the plate. This makes it one of the most enthusiastic dish mentions.
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Spinach And Artichoke Dip
Praised as delicious and especially good with extra bread. It was a popular appetizer choice that left a strong impression.
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Parmesan Fries With Aoli
Specifically called a must-get item and described as amazing. The recommendation was especially strong compared with other side dishes.
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Grilled Salmon
Recommended as delicious and part of a great meal with mushroom risotto and grilled broccoli. It was singled out as a favorite entrée.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 11 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 11 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
About The Basil Leaf Café
Quaint neighborhood bar & eatery offering sizable Italian plates in an unpretentious atmosphere.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Live music
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked
What is The Basil Leaf Café known for?
It is especially known for tortellini dishes, including tortellini alla vodka, tortellini carbonara, and Tortellini Cordon Bleu. Reviewers also repeatedly mention the Cajun penne, lasagna, and fettuccine alfredo, along with generous portions and rich, satisfying sauces.
What dishes are most recommended at The Basil Leaf Café?
Reviewers most often recommend the tortellini alla vodka, tortellini carbonara, Tortellini Cordon Bleu, Cajun penne, lasagna, lobster ravioli, salmon, and Caesar salad. The lobster ravioli, seared salmon, and lasagna are all called out as especially memorable, while the Caesar salad and house salad with blueberry dressing also get strong praise.
What is the atmosphere like at The Basil Leaf Café?
The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, quiet, and sometimes lively, with a balance of charm and energy. It works well for groups, dates, and solo dining, and several reviews mention window seats overlooking Mass Street and a comfortable setting for lingering over dinner or happy hour.
Is The Basil Leaf Café a good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, and reviewers describe it as a little pricey for the caliber of food, but still worth it for the portion sizes and quality. Happy hour specials are also mentioned as affordable, and several diners say the generous servings and leftovers make the meal feel worthwhile.
Do I need a reservation or should I plan ahead for busy times?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday nights when it can get busy. Reviewers also note that the restaurant can seat groups quickly at other times, but peak dinner hours are the safest time to book ahead.
Is parking available at The Basil Leaf Café?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does The Basil Leaf Café have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Basil Leaf Café offers vegan options.
Is The Basil Leaf Café kid-friendly?
Yes, The Basil Leaf Café is good for kids.
