Discover the culinary delights offered by Cucina 120, a restaurant that masterfully blends traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. The menu is a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold tastes, and thoughtful craftsmanship, designed to satisfy a wide range of palates.
Whether you are a fan of classic Italian dishes or eager to explore innovative plates with a modern twist, Cucina 120 presents an enticing selection that promises a memorable dining experience.
Each dish on the Cucina 120 Menu reflects a commitment to quality and authenticity. The chefs focus on sourcing the finest local produce and artisanal products, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor and freshness.
The menu is crafted to accommodate diverse dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, gluten-free, and seafood options without compromising on taste or presentation.
From appetizers to desserts, the menu is thoughtfully structured to guide guests through an evolving journey of tastes. The atmosphere of Cucina 120 complements the cuisine perfectly, providing a warm, inviting setting that enhances the enjoyment of each dish.
Whether dining casually or for a special occasion, the menu caters to all moments with an elegant balance of comfort and sophistication.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Prelude
The appetizer section of Cucina 120 is designed to awaken the senses and set the tone for the meal ahead. These starters range from light and refreshing options to richer, more indulgent bites, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Signature appetizers include a variety of small plates that combine traditional Italian influences with contemporary flair. Ingredients like burrata, heirloom tomatoes, and truffle oil are frequently featured, creating a harmony of textures and flavors that prepare the palate for the courses to follow.
Guests will find options suitable for sharing as well as individual servings. The appetizers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, highlighting the chefs’ dedication to presentation.
- Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes: Creamy burrata cheese paired with vibrant, fresh tomatoes drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly fried squid served with a zesty lemon aioli, offering a satisfying crunch and tangy finish.
- Roasted Beet Salad: Earthy roasted beets combined with arugula, walnuts, and goat cheese, finished with a honey vinaigrette.
- Bruschetta Trio: A selection of toasted bread topped with classic tomato basil, mushroom ragout, and olive tapenade.
“An appetizer at Cucina 120 is never just a starter; it’s an invitation to savor the journey of taste that the meal promises.” – Chef Marco Bellini
Entrées: Main Courses That Define Excellence
The entrée section showcases the heart of Cucina 120’s culinary philosophy: combining rich heritage with innovative approaches. The dishes are robust, wholesome, and crafted to highlight the natural qualities of the ingredients used.
Meats, seafood, and vegetarian dishes are prepared using classic cooking methods enhanced by modern techniques. This ensures each entrée has a balanced depth of flavor and texture, appealing to both traditionalists and adventurous diners.
The menu changes seasonally to reflect the best available produce, allowing guests to experience fresh and timely dishes that celebrate the bounty of each period.
Signature Entrées
- Osso Buco alla Milanese: Slow-braised veal shank served with saffron risotto, tender and infused with aromatic herbs.
- Seafood Linguine: Fresh linguine tossed with shrimp, clams, and mussels in a light tomato and white wine sauce.
- Wild Mushroom Risotto: Creamy arborio rice cooked with a medley of wild mushrooms and finished with parmesan and truffle oil.
- Grilled Tuscan Chicken: Herb-marinated chicken breast grilled to perfection, accompanied by roasted seasonal vegetables.
Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Style | Dietary Notes |
Osso Buco alla Milanese | Veal shank, saffron, herbs | Slow braised | Gluten-free |
Seafood Linguine | Shrimp, clams, mussels, tomato, white wine | Sautéed and simmered | Contains shellfish |
Wild Mushroom Risotto | Arborio rice, wild mushrooms, parmesan | Simmered, stirred | Vegetarian |
Grilled Tuscan Chicken | Chicken breast, herbs, seasonal vegetables | Grilled | Gluten-free |
Vegetarian and Vegan Selections
At Cucina 120, plant-based options receive the same level of care and creativity as meat and seafood dishes. The vegetarian and vegan menu sections offer varied choices that highlight vibrant vegetables, grains, and legumes.
These dishes emphasize bold, fresh flavors and satisfying textures, ensuring that diners seeking meat-free options feel equally indulged. Many recipes incorporate nuts, seeds, and dairy alternatives to enrich the dining experience.
The kitchen takes pride in offering dishes that cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing the essence of Italian culinary tradition.
- Vegan Caponata: A Sicilian-style eggplant stew with olives, capers, and tomatoes, served warm or cold.
- Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms: Filled with herbed chickpea flour batter and lightly fried, offering a delicate texture.
- Polenta with Wild Mushroom Ragù: Creamy polenta topped with a rich mushroom ragù, finished with fresh herbs.
- Roasted Cauliflower Steak: Thick slices of cauliflower charred and served with a smoky romesco sauce.
The vibrant colors and layers of flavor in our vegetarian options are designed to showcase that meatless meals can be equally indulgent and satisfying. – Sous Chef Elena Rossi
Seafood Delicacies
Seafood holds a prominent place on the Cucina 120 menu, reflecting the coastal influences that inspire many of the dishes. Freshness is paramount, with fish and shellfish sourced daily from trusted local suppliers.
The seafood offerings range from light, citrus-infused plates to hearty preparations that celebrate the sea’s bounty. The chefs employ techniques such as grilling, poaching, and pan-searing to preserve the delicate flavors and textures.
These dishes are ideal for guests seeking a lighter yet fulfilling meal option, often paired with seasonal vegetables and house-made sauces.
- Grilled Branzino: Whole Mediterranean sea bass grilled and served with lemon-herb dressing.
- Seared Scallops: Perfectly caramelized scallops atop a bed of saffron risotto and microgreens.
- Cioppino: A robust seafood stew featuring crab, shrimp, clams, and fish simmered in a tomato broth.
- Lobster Ravioli: Handmade pasta filled with lobster meat, served in a light cream sauce with chives.
Dish | Key Ingredients | Cooking Method | Suggested Pairing |
Grilled Branzino | Branzino, lemon, herbs | Grilled | Sauvignon Blanc |
Seared Scallops | Scallops, saffron risotto | Pan-seared | Chardonnay |
Cioppino | Crab, shrimp, clams, tomato broth | Simmered | Pinot Noir |
Lobster Ravioli | Lobster, pasta, cream sauce | Boiled, sautéed | Chardonnay |
Handmade Pastas and Pizzas
Pasta and pizza are cornerstones of Italian cuisine and are given special attention at Cucina 120. The doughs and pasta are prepared fresh daily, ensuring optimal texture and flavor.
Each pasta dish is created to highlight the sauce and ingredients it accompanies. From rich ragùs to light herb-infused olive oil preparations, the variety offers something for every preference.
Similarly, the pizza menu features artisanal pies with creative toppings and perfectly blistered crusts. The ingredients are carefully chosen to balance tradition with innovation.
- Tagliatelle al Tartufo: Ribbon pasta tossed in a luxurious truffle cream sauce with parmesan.
- Spaghetti alla Carbonara: Classic Roman pasta with pancetta, egg, pecorino cheese, and black pepper.
- Margherita Pizza: Simple yet sublime, topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
- Funghi e Salsiccia Pizza: Mushrooms and Italian sausage with mozzarella and a touch of chili flakes.
“Freshness and simplicity are the keys to our pasta and pizza dishes; each ingredient shines when treated with respect.” – Head Chef Luigi Mancini
Desserts: Sweet Endings
The dessert menu at Cucina 120 offers a range of indulgences designed to provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal. Each dessert is crafted with care, balancing sweetness with texture and flavor nuances.
Traditional Italian sweets are featured alongside modern creations, allowing guests to choose according to their mood and preference. The desserts highlight seasonal fruits, fine chocolates, and house-made creams and custards.
Portions are generous yet balanced, designed to delight without overwhelming the palate.
- Tiramisu Classico: The quintessential Italian dessert, layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
- Panna Cotta with Berry Compote: Silky smooth cream dessert paired with a vibrant, tangy berry sauce.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Tart: Rich chocolate filling in a crisp tart shell, topped with toasted hazelnuts.
- Lemon Olive Oil Cake: Moist cake infused with lemon zest and extra virgin olive oil, served with whipped cream.
Dessert | Main Components | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
Tiramisu Classico | Espresso, mascarpone, ladyfingers | Rich, creamy, coffee-infused | Espresso or dessert wine |
Panna Cotta with Berry Compote | Cream, gelatin, mixed berries | Light, tangy, creamy | Moscato d’Asti |
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart | Chocolate, hazelnuts, pastry | Decadent, nutty, rich | Port wine |
Lemon Olive Oil Cake | Lemon, olive oil, flour | Bright, moist, subtly fruity | Light herbal tea |
Beverages and Wine Pairings
The beverage program at Cucina 120 is thoughtfully curated to complement the flavors of the menu. A well-rounded wine list includes selections from Italy’s renowned regions as well as international favorites.
In addition to wine, the restaurant offers craft cocktails, artisanal beers, and non-alcoholic options. The beverage team works closely with the kitchen to recommend pairings that enhance each dish’s character.
Guests interested in exploring new flavor combinations are encouraged to ask for pairing suggestions tailored to their meal choices.
Wine Highlights
- Barolo: A robust red from Piedmont, perfect with hearty meat entrées like Osso Buco.
- Verdicchio: A crisp white that pairs beautifully with seafood dishes and lighter pastas.
- Chianti Classico: A versatile red ideal for pizza and rustic vegetable courses.
- Prosecco: Sparkling and refreshing, suitable as an aperitif or with appetizers.
“Our wine list is designed not only to please the palate but to tell the story of Italy’s diverse terroirs and traditions.” – Sommelier Paolo Bianchi
Special Dietary Accommodations
Cucina 120 is committed to providing an inclusive dining experience. The menu clearly identifies dishes that meet various dietary requirements, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
The kitchen is prepared to modify many dishes upon request, prioritizing guest health and satisfaction without compromising the quality or integrity of the food.
Staff members are knowledgeable and approachable, ready to assist diners in selecting meals that align with their needs and preferences.
- Gluten-Free: Many pasta dishes are available with gluten-free alternatives or can be adapted accordingly.
- Vegetarian & Vegan: A dedicated section and customizable options ensure ample choices.
- Allergen Awareness: The kitchen takes precautions to avoid cross-contamination and can provide detailed ingredient information.
“Dining at Cucina 120 means everyone can enjoy authentic Italian flavors without worry or compromise.” – Restaurant Manager Sofia Conti
The Cucina 120 menu represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, designed to delight a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences. From the first bite of a carefully crafted appetizer to the final spoonful of dessert, every element is executed with passion and precision.
Seasonal ingredients and thoughtful preparation ensure that diners experience freshness and excitement with each visit.
The restaurant’s dedication to accommodating diverse dietary needs while maintaining culinary excellence makes it a go-to destination for both casual meals and special occasions. The wine and beverage selections enhance the flavors on the plate, creating a well-rounded dining experience that celebrates Italian heritage and modern sensibilities.
Ultimately, Cucina 120 is more than just a menu; it is a culinary narrative inviting guests to explore, savor, and enjoy the richness of Italian cuisine in an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. Whether you are a longtime aficionado or new to Italian dining, the offerings here promise satisfaction, discovery, and lasting memories.