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  5. Banker's Hill
CUCINA urbana, San Diego, CA
This restaurant now offers Takeout

This restaurant now offers Takeout

Bring the restaurant to you. Order and pay for food directly on OpenTable.

CUCINA urbana

4.8
4.8
6386 reviews
$30 and under
Italian
We are a wine shop inside of a restaurant | Dining and design form the perfect union at San Diego's highly acclaimed CUCINA urbana, a California-inspired Italian kitchen and wine shop, located in the heart of Bankers Hill since 2009.

The restaurant boasts comfort and familiarity, welcoming diners to a country farmhouse with the added whimsy of a contemporary art installation.

CUCINA urbana is the originator of the CUCINA retail wine program where each dedicated shop allows guests to hand select wines at a retail price, either to enjoy with their meal for a minimal corkage fee or for purchase to-go. The wine list is comprised of many familiar labels as well as rare and small-batch gems, with an emphasis on Italian varietals.

Make a booking

2 people

19:00


Booked 58 times today
Experiences are available.

Order delivery or takeout

Other options

  • Order online

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Cuisines

    Italian, American, Mediterranean

  • Hours of Operation

    Dinner Tue–Thu 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Sun 4:00 pm–8:00 pm

  • Phone number

    (619) 239-2222

  • Payment Options

    AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress Code

    Casual Dress

  • Executive Chef

    Tim Kolanko

  • Catering

    URBAN KITCHEN CATERING provides four star, stunning events with menus unique to your occasion. For more information check the URBAN KITCHEN CATERING link on our website www.urbankitchengroup.com or call Alison at 619.239.2222 extension 2. Or if interested in restaurant buyout opportunities, please contact Tiffany Tassano at 619.239.2222 extension 4.

  • Private party facilities

    From birthday celebrations and corporate dinners to graduation celebrations and wedding receptions, our space is perfect for your dining event. Our Wine Shop offers an intimate semi-private space for smaller functions, while larger groups are welcome to host their event using our entire restaurant as a private venue. We offer: wine specialists, who will design pairings for your meal, personalized printed menus, table decorations, specialty to-go gifts, and more.

  • Private party contact

    Tiffany Tassano: (619) 239-2222 ext. 4

Experiences

  • Mother's Day at Cucina Urbana

    US$72.00 per person

    Multiple dates available
    Join us for a beautiful three course menu celebrating Mothers on their special day. Cucina Urbana will feature bellini kits, daytime cocktails, a lovely menu featuring fresh pastries, seasonal fruit, savory and sweet breakfast items as well as some Cucina classics. We look forward to hosting your group and providing our warm brand of hospitality to the guests of honor.

Popular dishes

What 6,386 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.6Ambience
  • 4.4Value

NoiseModerate

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  1. laurib

    Central Texas

    16 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    16 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall4food3service3ambience4
    My first Michelin and while it was good it wasn’t super impressive.
  2. LookingUpIndaBurgh

    Pittsburgh

    25 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    25 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great ambiance , service and food The squash blossoms were superb, as was the octopus. The only thing I would change is dampen the noise level with carpets or?
  3. KellyWayneKatie

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Husband and I went for our 19th wedding anniversary a day early because they’re closed on Monday’s. We were lucky to have Richard to guide us in our food and drink choices. He’s really easy to talk to and makes you feel like you’re a guest in his home. For drinks, Hubby wanted something that made him feel like he was “poolside” so Richard suggested the tarocco spritz and I had the rossa corsa. They were both delicious and “fancy”. Mine was so pretty with real flowers floating in a white foam on top. We ordered the grilled octopus and it was outstanding! The seasoning on the octopus was so flavorful with a very slightly sweet taste and it was cooked perfectly. The fresh dill and mint were a great touch. I think it could have even a little more mint as it really added a pop of freshness to the dish. More mint please? :) For our entrees, I had the Chicken fra diavolo because the reviews I read were fantastic. It did not disappoint!! It was cooked to perfection-juicy with a crispy exterior and it was not too spicy. I had been worried about the spice but Richard told me to trust him and he was correct, it was just right. The polenta underneath was outstanding! My husband had the branzino as we’d been wanting to try this preparation for awhile. It was amazing!!! The fish itself was super mild, moist and flaky. It’s done Mediterranean style with olives, some sort of white bean, fresh tomatoes and shaved fennel. It was such a fresh dish! Delicious! We ordered the tiramisu and Richard explained that it was not the “ordinary” tiramusa, it was their take on the dessert. It was made with chocolate ladyfingers, a Marsala caramel, whipped mascarpone and chopped hazelnuts. I think it was dusted with chocolate as well. It was so delicious! It was our anniversary and they served us complimentary champagne and comped our dessert. Overall it was a great experience and we can’t wait to have Richard serve us again. Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials!
  4. DhyanaW

    San Diego

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our service from Kevin was outstanding. All the pasta and pizza dishes are delicious. Try the Crispy Brussel Sprouts. SOOO yummy! The wine selection is awesome too!
  5. AdrianaA

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall4food4service5ambience3
    Make sure you realize that they have indoor and outdoor dining when making reservations. Next time I'll make sure to get inside dining as it was difficult to carry on a conversation without shouting due to the street traffic and it got very cold, and the outdoor heaters can only do so much. Food was great and my tasty Aperol spritz drink was even better!
  6. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    CUCINA Urbana is not only a restaurante, it is an experience of a great meal, amazing ambiance and wonderful service. We want to thank everyone involved to make our time so pleasant. A special thank you for Kevin who always take such great care of us. Our experience would not be the best one without you. This time I had a rigatoni a bolognese and was extremely delicious!
  7. hungryhippo

    New England

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Was cold so sat at the bar. Entire bar staff was fantastic!
  8. HamptonsFoodie

    New York Area

    21 reviews

    5.0

    21 reviews

    Dined on 17 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We weren’t super excited about the large plate entrees so got a variety of apps, salads, pizza and pasta. Such a great idea since we got to try so many different things and everything was excellent. Plus our knowledgeable and patient server combined with the interesting decor made for a wonderful dinner experience.
  9. Skittle

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on 17 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Start to finish the service and the quality of the food was top notch!
  10. BaroqueFlute

    San Diego

    32 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    32 reviews

    Dined on 16 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    We had a light dinner. Grilled octopus was outstanding. So was the baked cheese with caponata. We shared pappardelle with braised short ribs - also a winner. The only downer was the noise inside - our waiter had developed laryngitis from shouting over the din. In better weather, we've eaten outside, which was much more pleasant.
  11. Anonymous

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on 16 March 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience3
    Beautifully decorated delicious food, delightful choice of fine wines, beers, and other cocktails, quality customer service, and a colorful spin of interior design. 10/10 recommend.
  12. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on 15 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    The food was great and the servers were fantastic. Great dinner for my 2 year anniversary.
  13. EmilyR

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on 13 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was amazing! I went for my 21st and it was a wonderful time!
  14. SusanneT

    Atlantic Canada

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on 12 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a two year old with us and we couldn’t have had a better time. Excellent food, friendly and efficient service, and good wine prices.
  15. VanessaC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on 11 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Jason was such an amazing waiter. He was so kind, helpful, and knowledgeable! He assisted us with every part of our ordering from appetizers to our bottle of wine. His suggestions and kindness went above what we ever expected and we were so thankful! Our dinner was exceptional and cannot wait to come back to dine.
  16. MarieR

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on 11 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fabulous food and service! Wine selection is amazing!
  17. Patty

    San Diego

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on 11 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Their featured pizzas for this week had many layers of flavorful and delicious toppings. Pork belly, chicharrones, Calabrian chiles to name a few. Delish. A must try.
  18. AlbertG

    New Orleans

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on 11 March 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Nice choice in San Diego but a bit out of the way. Fabulous “Big Meatball’ which could be a meal in itself. Decent bar and WBG.
  19. GreenLifeMike

    San Diego

    40 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    40 reviews

    Dined on 10 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This was my 2nd visit in a month, and I am happy to report that over the years this restaurant has only gotten better. The food was excellent - delicious , unique, and healthy. The service was very friendly, informative, and attentive. Our most recent server was Kevin - thank you.
  20. SBeenthere

    Miami

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on 10 March 2023

    overall2food5service1ambience4
    This was not my first time eating here, but the service was woefully sub par this time. The food is always outstanding and did not disappoint. But it was frustrating to have to get up and tap our waiter on the shoulder to remind him to bring the wine- which took 15 minutes, the water, which took 20 minutes, the menu, which we ended up going to the station and getting ourselves after endless attempts to get his attention. This visit was a disappointment.
  21. Julia

    San Diego

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on 10 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Always a great experience. Food was phenomenal per usual
  22. CHARLESS

    Palm Springs

    166 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    166 reviews

    Dined on 10 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This was my first time dining at Cucina Urbana but our party of 4 adults were very impressed with the food and service. Kevin was a superb server who gave us great advice on the wine and food. We enjoyed a nice San Martino Chianti and the pepperoni and sausage pizza was superb as a shared appetizer. The favorite entree was the rigatoni bolognese which was enhanced with lemon ricotta that added such a tasty and unique flavor. This restaurant was rocking on a Thursday night as it was full and energetic. I look forward to a return meal at Cucina Urbana!
  23. MaryL

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on 10 March 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience5
    Great staff. Food was excellent. But the “fee” to help offset costs is complete BS. It effected the tip unfortunately.
  24. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on 10 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was great! Staff is extremely friendly and polite. Food was excellent
  25. Carmine57

    San Francisco

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on 10 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Cucina Urbana offers excellent food and great service with a comfortable yet energetic vibe. Looking forward to going back again!
  26. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on 8 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, great vibes, good people
  27. JoeM

    Calgary

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on 8 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was a terrific dining experience! Food was fantastic, the atmosphere is great. A little noisy if that’s a concern but we loved it! Will go again for sure!
  28. KateC

    Salt Lake City

    9 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on 8 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food here is always consistently delicious and the wine is reasonably priced
  29. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    vip
    1.0

    1 review

    Dined on 5 March 2023

    overall1food4service1ambience4
    Went in tonight for a 7:45pm reservation. We ordered appetizers and enjoyed them, but waited a long while for our entrees. There was a couple to our left that arrived after us, and there was a mix-up in the kitchen. They were clearly given our entrees and then sent them back because they weren’t theirs. Our entrees were further delayed. Manager on duty as well as our server (who was serving both of us) came out to apologize to the couple next to us. No acknowledgement to us WHATSOEVER. The couple next to us was then offered a free dessert. We honestly could care less about a free item, but being acknowledged like we mattered would have been enough. We are POC, they were not. Coincidence or the same ol’ BS that POC are used to?
  30. AustinM

    Exclusive

    24 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    24 reviews

    Dined on 2 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Delicious food and beautiful ambience. A little on the louder side than my personal preference but I could still hear my group well. Servers were fast and efficient. Would love to come back and try more of their food.
  31. Shannon

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on 2 March 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    The food and service were both great! Always a solid choice.
  32. SammyD

    Philadelphia

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on 27 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Awesome! Always come here when in town.
  33. GinaL

    San Francisco

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on 26 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was an amazing experience. The staff was fantastic!! Jason (server ) was one of the best server I’ve ever had.. the management was extremely professional and engaged with us at the table. Olivia and Julia took it upon themselves to come to our table and check in to see if everything was Okay.. we felt very special and the experience was one of a kind.. The food was soooo good. The flavors were out of this world … Recommend this restaurant to everyone!!
  34. SB2022

    Portland

    13 reviews

    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on 26 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food - service was great - Richard was fabulous and fun! Inventive cocktails and menu had a great variety of tasty choices!
  35. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on 26 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We used to go before covid to Cucina Urbana to celebrate all the special birthdays and special dates. We just returned after 3 years without being there and feels like we never stopped to go. A special thanks to Kevin our favorite waiter ever! He is kind, friendly, know what we like (even after 3+y without seeing us) and the best wine sommelier. We are so excited that we are already have another reservation in a couple weeks from now.
  36. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on 22 February 2023

    overall5food3service3ambience5
    I love this place and the food is always excellent, I’ve been here a bunch of times. Last visit the I can swear the margarita pizza wasn’t fresh and barely any signs of cheese on it, it was more a dough and sauce. Otherwise everything else is fantastic.
  37. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on 22 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We visit SD often from Philly, and we always include an evening dining at Cucina. Our meal was delicious. My celiac issues were accommodated beautifully. I had the chicken entree , and my husband had a pasta dish- both were super! We love the vibe at Cucina. A special to (new) Kevin for outstanding service, and a pleasant conversation. We look forward to our next visit. A request… how about a Cucina Urbana on the East Coast?!!🤗
  38. FrancineM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on 20 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Consistently has the best chicken dish I've ever had out at a restaurant! Tasty marinade and perfectly cooked and just the right amount of portion size with both white and dark meat. And what it's paired with--sauteed or roasted broccolini and a mascarpone polenta, perfection! They have a pizza oven as well, and I think they might put some of the other food like this chicken in there, but I'm not positive I need to ask next time. Point being the pizzas must be fantastic in that oven as well, I just haven't tried one yet.
  39. Carla

    San Diego

    7 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on 20 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The service and food was great!
  40. NoraN

    San Diego

    54 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    54 reviews

    Dined on 20 February 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful neighborhood gem and perfect for pre theater supper, especially with the terrific coordination of the shuttle. Special kudos for not only a delicious meal, but special accommodations for our vegan guests!

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitising

    • Surfaces sanitised between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitised menu provided
    • Sealed or wrapped utensils used
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitiser or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available
  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Distancing maintained in common areas
    • Extra space between tables
  • Protective equipment

    • Waiting staff wear masks
    • Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Staff temperature check required

FAQs

You can order delivery directly from CUCINA urbana using the Order Online button. CUCINA urbana also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (619) 239-2222.

CUCINA urbana is rated 4.8 stars by 6386 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a booking

2 people

19:00


Booked 58 times today
Experiences are available.

Order delivery or takeout

Other options

  • Order online
Google Map for CUCINA urbana

505 Laurel St., San Diego, CA 92101

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Cross Street

    5th avenue

  • Area

    Banker's Hill

  • Hours of Operation

    Dinner Tue–Thu 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Sun 4:00 pm–8:00 pm

  • Cuisines

    Italian, American, Mediterranean

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Dress Code

    Casual Dress

  • Parking Details

    Street Parking

  • Payment Options

    AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

  • Executive Chef

    Tim Kolanko

  • Additional

    Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining

  • Phone number

    (619) 239-2222

  • Catering

    URBAN KITCHEN CATERING provides four star, stunning events with menus unique to your occasion. For more information check the URBAN KITCHEN CATERING link on our website www.urbankitchengroup.com or call Alison at 619.239.2222 extension 2. Or if interested in restaurant buyout opportunities, please contact Tiffany Tassano at 619.239.2222 extension 4.

  • Private party facilities

    From birthday celebrations and corporate dinners to graduation celebrations and wedding receptions, our space is perfect for your dining event. Our Wine Shop offers an intimate semi-private space for smaller functions, while larger groups are welcome to host their event using our entire restaurant as a private venue. We offer: wine specialists, who will design pairings for your meal, personalized printed menus, table decorations, specialty to-go gifts, and more.

  • Private party contact

    Tiffany Tassano: (619) 239-2222 ext. 4

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