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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
6400 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 reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 56 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

  • Neighborhood

    Banker's Hill

  • Cross street

    5th avenue

  • Parking details

    Street Parking

  • Additional

    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Mother's Day at Cucina Urbana

    $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 6,400 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

Sort by

Filters

  1. CindyB

    Austin

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 1 day ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Loved the ambiance! Very hip, excellent food and loved our waiter. Interesting flavors from everything we ordered.
  2. Ashley

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 1 day ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    definitely the best Italian restaurant in San Diego! SUPER cute place! Our server Jason was the absolute BEST!! Everything he recommended (from champs, wine, & food) WAS INCREDIBLE! Amazing human too. Will definitely be back! Love it here!! 10/10
  3. LoriJ

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a great experience at Cecina Urbana…Jason took excellent care of us, the food was so good and beautifully presented. We highly recommend this spot….
  4. GGBB

    San Diego

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall2food2service5ambience2
    The food in general lacked flavors and especially gnocchi was extremely sour not sure why. Other pastas with red sauce was very bland
  5. KarenK

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Jason was amazing! Helpful in selecting a bottle of wine for us and so friendly!!
  6. Leftfield

    New Mexico

    17 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    17 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall3food4service3ambience1
    The noise level is not "energetic". It is loud, loud, loud. It's a very big room which also adds to the problem. The restaurant needs ceiling baffles to cut some of the problem for me to go back.
  7. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Delicious food, amazing service, beautiful venue! Can’t wait to come back!!!
  8. TimH

    San Diego

    159 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    159 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall4food5service4ambience3
    We dined outdoors at Cucina Urbana. It's one of our favorites, for sure. We shared several items and a nice Pinot Noir. The "Chef's Whim" ragu on polenta was really, really good. Some kind of lamb stew was the featured ragu. Also shared the lovely chopped salad and a loaf of focacia bread. Then a chocolate mousse type dessert which was perfect to end the meal. Bravo!
  9. TimC

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Very inviting place. The food was quite good, especially the gluten free options.
  10. JMGP

    Seattle

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Service was excellent for a large group. Very efficient and friendly waiter.
  11. Eugene

    Orange County

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My always go to restaurant when I am visiting San Diego. Best food and service every time I visit. Thank you for complimentary birthday dessert this time!
  12. GretaM

    New England

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Always a slam dunk. One of our favorite restaurants in San Diego.
  13. KATE

    San Diego

    33 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    33 reviews

    Dined on March 25, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Had not been back to Cucina Urbana in quite a while and was anxious to have dinner there once again~ Well, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that the food was even better than I remembered it, the service was superb as well! I was only disappointed that during the Covid they decided that they had to remodel the restaurant and I can't believe that they spent so much money destroying the beautiful restaurant that I remembered so well...
  14. Jlovesfood1

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food, atmosphere and service was wonderful. Thank you!
  15. laurib

    Central Texas

    16 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    16 reviews

    Dined on March 23, 2023

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

    Pittsburgh

    26 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    26 reviews

    Dined on March 23, 2023

    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?
  17. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 22, 2023

    overall4food3service5ambience5
    Food is pretty expensive. Pizza was nothing to write home about. The appetizers were okay. Don’t think I would come back. Beautiful restaurant though.
  18. KellyWayneKatie

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on March 20, 2023

    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!
  19. DhyanaW

    San Diego

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on March 19, 2023

    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!
  20. AdrianaA

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 19, 2023

    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!
  21. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on March 19, 2023

    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!
  22. hungryhippo

    New England

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on March 19, 2023

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

    New York Area

    21 reviews

    5.0

    21 reviews

    Dined on March 17, 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.
  24. Skittle

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 17, 2023

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

    San Diego

    32 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    32 reviews

    Dined on March 16, 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.
  26. Anonymous

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 16, 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.
  27. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on March 15, 2023

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

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 13, 2023

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

    Atlantic Canada

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 12, 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.
  30. VanessaC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 11, 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.
  31. MarieR

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 11, 2023

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

    San Diego

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on March 11, 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.
  33. AlbertG

    New Orleans

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 11, 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.
  34. GreenLifeMike

    San Diego

    40 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    40 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 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.
  35. SBeenthere

    Miami

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 10, 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.
  36. Julia

    San Diego

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 2023

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

    Palm Springs

    166 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    166 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 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!
  38. MaryL

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 2023

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

    Los Angeles

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 2023

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

    San Francisco

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 2023

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

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Sealed or wrapped utensils used
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer 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

    • Waitstaff 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 6400 OpenTable diners.

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

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 56 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

  • Neighborhood

    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

    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

  • 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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