The RDU Buzz

By Madeline Cook

La Cucina Italiana 

We may have found a winner for the coziest Italian comfort food in the Triangle!  If you’re looking for perfect al-dente pasta, hand-stretched pizza, and yeasty garlic bread, La Cucina Italiana is a must try.  The kitchens stay busy at both the Morrisville, and the newly opened Raleigh location (just 1 month old!), as everything on the menu is made from scratch - even the noodles! 

 We love the unpretentious, yet totally inviting atmosphere in La Cucina Italiana.  Think friendly service, delicious smells, and Frank Sinatra ballads playing over the speakers.  Both locations offer a convenient counter-order option if you’re on the go.  Or, check out the Raleigh location for a relaxed sit down experience.  This is a favorite way to enjoy La Cucina Italiana if you have your eye on one of their tempting desserts.  The only thing that might keep you from ordering a cheesecake, tiramisu or cannoli is how delightfully full you’ll be after your meal, but we promise the splurge is worth it!

Wait, how did we skip to dessert before talking apps and entrees?  Kick things off with a light and crisp Caesar, Greek, Garden or Chef salad.  The garlic knots never disappoint, especially when served on a plate of melty butter, fresh grated parmesan and house-made marinara sauce.  And when it’s time for the main event, it’ll be hard to narrow down your choices with lasagna, gourmet pizzas and juicy calzones on the menu among other mouth-watering dishes!  Even the classic pepperoni pizza tastes extra special.  Another favorite of ours is the Ravioli with spinach, and we’ve heard wonderful things about the Penne alla Vodka!  It’s hard to believe there’s really no wrong choice at La Cucina Italiana, but we chalk it up to the obvious commitment to quality and passion for getting each handmade sauce balanced with just the right flavors and seasonings. 

Whether it’s comfort that you’re craving, a tasty lunch on-the-go, or a crowd-favorite catering option for your next party, you won’t regret choosing La Cucina Italiana.  Hours vary slightly by location, so check out their website (and get a head start looking at the menu while you’re at it!)  You can find the Raleigh location at 6552 Glenwood Ave and the Morrisville location at 10208 Chapel Hill Rd.  Give it a try and let us know what you think!