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Welcome to Cugini Restaurant, a delightful Italian haven nestled in the heart of Albany, California, on Solano Avenue. This vibrant eatery offers an inviting atmosphere, blending the traditional elements of Italian dining with a modern twist, making it a perfect spot for families, groups, or even a casual dinner date.
Cugini caters to a diverse palate, featuring a menu rich in Italian classics and innovative dishes alike. What truly sets Cugini apart is its dedication to quality and service. With options ranging from mouthwatering pizzas to flavorful calzones and sandwiches, every bite promises a hearty experience. Favorites such as the Capricciosa Pizza, topped with mozzarella, prosciutto, and artichoke hearts, delight your taste buds while the Cugini Calzone, filled with Calabrese sausage and mushrooms, offers a satisfying belly warm. For lunch, try the Ahi Tuna BLT Sandwich or the Chicken Parm Sandwich—both crowd-pleasers that showcase fresh ingredients and a commitment to flavor.
Beyond the food, Cugini boasts a well-stocked full bar with impressive cocktails like the renowned martinis, touted as the best in town. The restaurant’s environment is casual yet lively, perfect for a relaxed evening out with friends or family. The spacious outdoor seating is a bonus, providing a charming setting for al fresco dining.
Customers rave about the meticulously crafted dishes, with one diner declaring Cugini as their “go-to restaurant” due to its consistently superb flavors and friendly service. The ribeye risotto and the mixed berry salad have garnered specific praises, with flavors that linger long after the last bite.
Cugini Restaurant is not just a place to eat; it’s a culinary experience that captures the essence of family and tradition. Whether you’re savoring a classic plate of pasta or joining friends for drinks and dancing, this restaurant offers something for everyone. Visit Cugini and immerse yourself in the warm embrace of genuine Italian hospitality. You may find that the flavors are not just good but truly unforgettable!
Location: 1556 Solano Ave, Albany, CA 94707
Phone: (510) 558-9000
Website: cuginirestaurant.com
“ The food, ambiance and service is second to none. Jenny and I have had most of what Cugini has on their menu. We have never had a bad meal. Armando and Becka are always at their best, making you feel at home. Stephanie, Mia, Angel, Marco and Jesus work as a team in making sure all of their guests are taken care of. Thank you Armamdo for making the best Martinis in town. Simply fabulous place. Love you guys. ”
“ Cugini is a great spot on Solano Ave for a nice lunch or diner. The food is consistently good and service is swift and friendly. ”
“ Good food and service. Went for a private event. Had lots of choices. I enjoyed their mixed berry salad with Gorgonzola & a light vinegarette dressing. The rib eye risotto was delicious. It had cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms risotto and sliced rib eye on the top. Very filling and the portion is enough to share. Highly recommend if you're in the area. ”
“ I do not understand how this restaurant receives bad reviews. The service is always excellent, and the food is amazing. They have the best Cesar salad I have ever had. Their pasta dishes are unbeatable in flavor. This is our go-to restaurant whenever we go out. ”
“ Man....a true and blue mamma mia Italian Restaurant. No kidding, yes the meatballs did have fancy spices in them, but the overall effect is muy may excellente. And the dessert, that's the kicker on this joint the dessert plate will knock you socks off.....highly recommended. s/VH ”
“ Food, service and ambiance always a winner here! Enjoyed the seared ahi salad. Great martinis! ”
“ Very good food and service in a great setting. Always enjoyable for my entire family. Love to come here for lunch or dinner ”
“ Quaint Italian restaurant on Solano Ave. we were seated quickly but the the remainder of the service was a bit slow and it was not that busy on a Tuesday night. The restaurant was a bit noisy, so not a great place for conversation. The food was good, nice size portions. They brought fresh bread with balsamic and olive oil. I would for sure come back ”
“ We love this place. There are no shortages of pizza or Italian joints in Albany/Berkeley/Oakland, but this shop is one of our go-to's when we're there visiting family and friends, which is five or six times a year The staff are amazing. Not just with food and service, they have been really on the ball about food sensitivities. Really, the staff absolutely makes this place and the owner manager walks around and personally checks on tables and makes sure that folks are having a good time and that their food and drinks are as expected. Not a mechanical gesture. Really seems to care that you're having a good time. The wood-fired oven inside is a highlight, not just for how pretty it is but for the fantastic pizza and goodies that come out of it. Full bar and lots of adult beverages on tap. Good wine list and bartender was a hoot the last few times we've been in. The Italian dishes like the pasta and the lasagna, are exactly what you would expect from any popular neighborhood Italian restaurant, but the unexpected on their menu is what brings the fire: wood-smoked clams and ribs. You gotta try the ribs! Deserts are good too. I wish they had cookies, but that is my own food kink. Great for an intimate date on a night that your favorite sister-in-law babysits or fun for medium to large groups. For more than 4, Call ahead - need a reservation for a group because they do get busy, especially on weekends. I didn't call ahead once that's on me. Parking can be an issue, but that is not their fault, it is the nature of the beast in the Bay. Bathrooms spotless - always a good sign. ”