Cuisine: Italian and Rustic
Vibe: Cozy, intimate, warm, with a personal touch from the chef
Price Range: £££
Star of the Show: Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
How authentic is it? Exceptionally authentic — a true taste of Italy with attention to detail
Tasting Italy: Immaculate vibes and comforting food
Cucina is a love letter to traditional Italian cuisine, delivered with heart and a touch of warmth. It’s a welcoming space where comfort meets elegance, and the food is a reflection of that same balance. From the first bite of focaccia to the indulgent gnocchi, each dish feels like it was made with care and passion.
What sets Cucina apart, though, is Chef Marco. Unlike the typical behind-the-scenes chef, he personally introduces each course and shares insights about the ingredients and preparation, creating a truly personalised dining experience.
Atmosphere & Setting
Nestled in the heart of Dubai, Cucina strikes the perfect balance between cozy charm and understated elegance. Rustic wooden accents, an open kitchen, and soft ambient lighting create an inviting atmosphere, making you feel like you’re dining in a homestyle Italian kitchen. The casual warmth of the space, combined with Chef Marco’s personal touch, makes the experience feel genuine and unpretentious.
Let’s Talk Food
The meal begins with the focaccia, fresh from the oven. Light and airy with a crisp crust, it’s paired with high-quality olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, and ripe buffalo tomatoes. Simple, but packed with flavour.
Next, the Carpaccio di Manzo offers thinly sliced beef with a light dressing, allowing the quality of the meat to shine. Topped with parmesan and a squeeze of lemon, it hits the perfect balance between richness and sharpness.
For the main course, the Spadella di Pesce is a seafood pasta that stands out for its delicate balance of fresh fish and perfectly cooked pasta. But the real star is the Gnocchi alla Sorrentina: soft, pillowy gnocchi enveloped in a rich tomato sauce and topped with golden mozzarella. It’s everything you want from comfort food — indulgent yet not overly heavy.
The evening culminates with a trip to the Gelateria by Cucina, where you can choose from over 30 flavors of rich, creamy gelato. From flavours like Dubai Chocolate to your classics like pistachio and stracciatella, each made with care. Even after a full meal, the gelato is a must-try.
Authenticity vs Innovation
Cucina leans heavily into the authenticity of Italian cuisine. Every dish feels like it’s been passed down through generations, yet Chef Marco’s subtle personal touches give it a contemporary and warm twist. An extra level of authenticity is evident as they make, dry, and use their own homemade pasta — you can even see this process unfold as you walk into the restaurant. The space also boasts a vertical herb garden, providing fresh, home-grown herbs that bring a vibrant, seasonal element to each dish. These touches bring an extra layer of authenticity, blending time-honored techniques with thoughtful modernity. It’s honest, flavourful food made with care and integrity.
The Verdict
Cucina is more than just a restaurant — it’s an experience. The food is simple but exquisite, the service is warm and attentive, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet refined. Chef Marco’s presence adds a unique, personal touch to the evening, making every guest feel truly cared for.
