If you haven’t been to the latest Italian Restaurant to open in Hewlett then you are missing some of the best food around!
Luigi Muto owner of Alfies 2 has opened a Contemporary Italian Restaurant right next door.
Don’t confuse Alfie’s Cucina with an upscale pizzeria and come here for heroes on a fancy plate or basic spaghetti and meatballs.
La Cucina is an upscale contemporary Italian Restaurant with a well rounded mid priced menu. Cucina is managed by Kenny Kotchek original owner of The Porthole & former manager of Corbin & Reynolds & Sole. The man behind the food is Executive Chef Peter Curcio, previously of Nick & Toni’s in East Hampton.
From the minute you walk in the door you know that this is not a pizza restaurant. You walk into an inviting bar area that is separated from the dining area by a waterfall. Definitely take the time to have a drink at the bar before or after dinner. Or if you feel like it, you can dine there.
The service is on point from the minute you are greeted by Kenny. The wait staff is attentive without being annoying. The don’t hover but are there when you need them. They know the food and can answer any questions. If they don’t have the answer, they will get it.
The bread is fresh, and you know you are in for something special when instead of butter you get hummus and herbed oil with your bread.
The menu has a wide selection of appetizers, salads and entrees. In addition there are always daily specials.The wine lists features many reasonably priced wines.
You have to try an appetizer. The Risotto Balls appetizer with a side aioli is fantastic – light fried risotto stuffed with cheese – not greasyand you just want more. If you are an octopus fan don’t miss the grilled octopus appetizer – stacked on toasted bread with a wonderful tomato based sauce. The fried calamari is anther of our favorites – light, crisp and flavorful. Be warned that appetizer portions are large and you want to leave room for your main course!
Entrees are equally as delicious. The pistachio crusted salmon is wonderful, the linguine with white clam sauce has just the right brininess (is that a word?), the parpadelle with short rib ragu is another winner. Veal Milanese when it is one of the specials is definitely one not to miss.
Dessert? Can’t speak to those as well since we are usually stuffed by this point. Last time we went we did share a tartuffo. Though the tartuffo itself is traditional, I really loved the way it was plated and made it into a new experience.
Looking for a great Italian meal – you have to give La Cucina a try. If you are looking to go on a weekend, I recommend a reservation.
See you there!
La Cucina 1241 Broadway Hewlett, NY 516-837-0475
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