Cuisine:

• Italian
• American

Cucina Urbana Description:
The space formerly occupied by Laurel has been reinvented into an informal cucina which hosts a pizza bar, communal tables, a wine shop, energetic bar scene and buzzing restaurant. The bohemian setting boasts a giant, colorful grafitti-esque centerpiece painting, and reclaimed metal lighting fixtures. Chef Joe Magnanelli creates a playful menu of savory Italian fare with a California farm-to-table twist, succeeding on many fronts. Bruschetta, salumi and formaggi and polenta boards rotate nightly with savory nibbles to start your culinary journey. Lightly-battered squash blossoms stuffed with herb ricotta stir the palate with their purple basil pesto and cured lemon dressing. Pillowy burrata rests in an artful landscape of rocket, heirlooms and prosciutto. Tender short rib meat dots al dente pappardelle with nuggets of cremini mushrooms for an added earthy hint. A pistachio-caper crust envelops delicate braised black cod, and a pork chop Milanese comes alive with marinated artichokes and the slightly bitter flick of arugula. Artisan pizzas arrive still steaming from the stone oven. The smiling waitstaff provides efficient service. A bottle shop favors affordable Italian and California wines ranging in price from $14 to $50, plus a $7 corkage fee. Infusions like red beet and cucumber vodka make for unique cocktails.


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