Cucina
Cucina offers a somewhat narrow dining area but with a glorious view of Puxi; its window seats look down on the busy Huangpu's brightly-lit boats.
You will discover upon the arrival of your first dish that the portions are American-style(that is gargantuan!). Cooking is rustic and homey, rather than complex or adventurous. When dining for two there's no need to order more starters than the antipasto piatter: it overflows with traditional goodies including seared foie gras bites, tender figs in balsamic vinegar, salami and turkey slices, blackened red and green peppers, a well-dressed salad of mixed greens topped with excellent parmesan, and more. With regards to the main courses?the beef medallions with melted bufffalo mozzarella top feature a thick but tender cut, skillfully grilled?The pizza here is easily the star of the menu: it delights with a crisp thin crust, aromatic tomato sauce and flavorful toppings, like chewy sausage or spicy fresh rocket.
Cucina has, literally, a book of wine choices—focusing on France, Italy, the US and Australia and includes a vast variety available by the half bottle.
The staff are professional and polite with a good coremand of English but are sometimes overly busy when this popular restaurant is full.
PRICE: Dinner for two without wine around RMB 1000
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