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  4. San Diego
  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
6485 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 59 times today

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

Popular dishes

What 6,485 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
  • 4.8Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.6Ambience
  • 4.5Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • San Diego

    Great for fine wines

Sort by

  1. JayC

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 1 day ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Really enjoyed everything about it--there for wife's birthday. We were met upon arrival by very friendly staff and seated in a nice table. Waiter was very attentive despite having huge party behind us. Noise level was loud but that made our conversation close and private. Drinks were exceptionally good--it appears they do not water down the liquor which is a nice change. Service was timed perfectly despite the huge group and generally busy atmosphere. Food was exceptional. Cucina Urbana is not cheap but really for the service and quality of the food and drinks it is an excellent value. We will continue to eat there.

    Is this helpful?

  2. TheHub

    Las Vegas

    24 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    24 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and service were fantastic. I've never had a bad meal or experience at Cucina Urbana.

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  3. NicoleM

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall3food3service4ambience3
    Drinks were not great. Pappardelle used to be our absolute favorite dish on the menu, but it was so salty and runny, we did not enjoy it at all. Still a decent spot, but not a great spot.

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  4. gardengal

    San Diego

    80 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    80 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fabulous once again! Best Brussels sprouts ever!! Lemon tart-- amazing!! Very loud from a large group at the back wall. Glad when their food came:)

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  5. Maymie

    San Diego

    5 reviews

    4.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall4food3service5ambience3
    Great food and nice ambience. They have a happy hour and some nice deals throughout the week.

    Is this helpful?

  6. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    24 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    24 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall4food5service5ambience5
    We enjoyed the ambience, the service was superb (loved our waiter), and the food was excellent, better than in much pricier restaurants. The only thing we didn't love was the noise level. I know it's the thing now, but I prefer when I don't have to shout at my partner the whole night.

    Is this helpful?

  7. Viking

    San Diego

    24 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    24 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great wines and delicious foods! The service by Kevin was outstanding and he is awesome. The wines he recommended were exceptional as was the food. The Chef Whim Ragu was fantastic!

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  8. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Sat outside, spacious 4 seat booth sidewalk seating, dedicated heater although sun still warm at 5, street traffic is mild so pleasant, pizza crust a ten, summer squash delectable, fantastic service.

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  9. Bicoastal

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Let me start by saying this is my fav restaurant in San Diego. The food is wonderfully presented and flavorful. The staff is top notch, Jason was our server. This is my first visit after the renovation and coming here for years and years. I hope they consider installing baffling or some kind of noise reduction. The restaurant was full and I was shocked by the noise level, we couldn’t hear those at out 4-top table, creating a very different dinner experience. Bustling is a nice vibe, I found this to be deafening. Will be back on a less busy night, hoping the decibel level is better, because the tiramisu is addictive.

    Is this helpful?

  10. BillM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Great food, incredible wines (and amazing value), and incredible vibe.

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  11. jays

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall2food1service5ambience5
    Food was ok. Brussel sprouts was super salty. Pork chop was dry and had a pickle brime flavor marsala jus was not good. Octopus spice was overwhelming. Marharite pizza was ok. Braised beef was ok too..nothing special. Service was excellent though.

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  12. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Mushroom and truffle pizza was 10/10 and the carpaccio SO GOOD. it was our first time having it. We will be back.

    Is this helpful?

  13. Foodie

    San Diego

    10 reviews

    4.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on May 29, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience3
    Food was great. Biggest issue for me was the noise level.

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  14. yummyfoodie

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    To start off, service was amazing. They would pick up ur dirty plates, check up on us etc.. My group being bilingual they tried there hardest to understand and explain to us our questions in the best way possible. The food was delicious. Seriously incredible. We heard a family say it was there favorite restaurant when we first walked in and we left knowing exactly why. Thank You so much

    Is this helpful?

  15. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We were visiting family and found this place on Yelp and since it had such high reviews we tried it out. The food from start to finish was excellent. Our waiter and overall service was amazing. Our waiter was patient and answered all of our questions and gave recommendations. They also sell wine bottles at retail price, which is pretty unheard of and makes dining out at an amazing restaurant so much more affordable. We will definitely be back!

    Is this helpful?

  16. FernandoM

    New York Area

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Had a wonderful time. Server knew it was a special occasion and went out of his way to accommodate and ensure we had a memorable time. Food was impeccable and full of flavor. And it is well know that they offer one of the most extensive and comprehensive wine list in town.

    Is this helpful?

  17. Alan

    San Diego

    16 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    16 reviews

    Dined on May 26, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    Good experience and will go there again. They have wines priced at retail, as opposed to restaurant prices, plus a $10 corkage fee(if you bring your own wine the corkage is $25). Only surprise was a focaccia that we ordered “off menu” I thought would be $4 or $5, but was$9 for a 5” bread. Service was very good and appropriately attentive. The restaurant is loud.

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  18. OpenTable Diner

    Phoenix

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had an excellent server - his friendly demeanor and encouraging recommendations made the meal even better. And the food was excellent. We didn’t want it to end.

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  19. RebeccaJ

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 22, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    I will return very soon ! Everything was spot on. Location, quality , service. Loved it!

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  20. 760cooper

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Great service and the food was some of the best we ever had. Would recommend the bread and the giant meatball appetizer. We sat outside and our server was very personable and helpful. The wine and alcohol selection was very good also.

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  21. JosephL

    San Diego

    31 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    31 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    Early Saturday dinner at 4:45 PM. No tables available inside (which is what we requested) and the weather was cool and overcast. We went with counter seating near the pizza oven. Our server, Kevin, was polite and professional, and made our dining enjoyable. Fried squash blossoms, short rib pappardelle, and warm valbreso feta were delicious.

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  22. Martini

    Palm Springs

    17 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    17 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    We shared their wonderful chopped salad and the pepperoni and sausage pizza. I think their chopped salad is one of, if not the, best I've ever had. It's a generous serving and very fresh and tasty. The pizza is full of flavor, very fresh tomato sauce with tasty thin crust. I've been here many times, tried many appetizers, salads and main course items. I've never been disappointed. It's always great service too.

    Is this helpful?

  23. BDGal

    Palm Springs

    11 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on May 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Just a wonderful evening. Service, food and wine were all just wonderful. We really loved the wine shop experience and bought a great Italian wine we probably would have never tried in a normal restaurant setting. We ate the squash blossoms and octopus for an appetizer and then I followed with the roasted chicken dish and the hubby enjoyed the gnocchi. All the flavors worked so well together and we left very full and happy. When next in SD we will definitely return!

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  24. mattyg

    New England

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on May 19, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Amazing food in a nice setting. Upscale feel with a casual atmosphere. The Brussels sprouts were the best we’ve ever had!

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  25. MikennaM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Delicious food, lovely ambiance, wonderful service! Sean was so attentive and gave great recommendations. We went for a business dinner and will be back!

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  26. SamanthaM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    If you are looking for a great ambiance definitely go to Cucina Urbana. Hands down tastiest restaurant in San Diego.

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  27. wineanddine

    San Diego

    11 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our server Jason was amazing. Great food and service.

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  28. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We were immediately greeted by Marcos who had suck a welcoming vibe. He set the atmosphere with his outgoing personality. Our serve, Richard, was courteous and nice to our children. His serving skills are phenomenal, with a touch of pleasantries. And our food was close to perfect! Every bite was followed with satisfyingly expression.

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  29. KrisH

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Love the vibe of this restaurant! Our waiter, Kevin, was excellent!!!

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  30. RarelyReview

    San Francisco

    12 reviews

    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Delicious appetizers, salads and pasta. Well composed and balanced flavors. I recommend Cucina Urbana.

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  31. MTGA

    Palm Springs

    10 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience3
    Why doesn't a great Italian restaurant have Zinfandel or Primitivo on the wine list? These are quintessential Italian wines. We chose a Syrah instead :( All in all the food was amazing. BEST Italian in Hillcrest/Bankers Hill area.

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  32. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Never disappoints! Great food, drinks and service.

    Is this helpful?

  33. DeanS

    San Diego

    21 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    21 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Our second time here and amazing food and service. Jason and Angel were attentive and added to our enjoyable dinner. Thanks

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  34. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Last minute dinner, and everything was amazing!! Server was on it! She directed us with our final choices and was spot on!

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  35. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 13, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    Really enjoyable meal and overall experience. Food was excellent, service A+

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  36. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Incredible service and phenomenal food! Only place I know you can get fine wine in a restaurant at retail price and pop the bottle there! Definitely be back next time in in town

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  37. LisaQ

    Palm Springs

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Beautifully decorated, every dish was delicious and an extensive wine list. Sean our server was attentive, answered questions and provided exemplary service. The hostess was accommodating to my walker.

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  38. Eatoutalot

    New England

    31 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    31 reviews

    Dined on May 11, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    The fried zucchini flowers were amazing. Same for the gem lettuce salad with cauliflower. The rigatoni bolognese was incredible but the show stopper was the whole branzino. Wine was at retail cost so that was a bonus too.

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  39. dannyg

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was excellent. Service was very good but there was some waiting at times, however they were busy and we had a good dinner so it didn't bother us. I have come here many times and it is always a great meal.

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  40. Cheryl

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 10, 2023

    overall4food3service5ambience4
    Food was great and fantastic service. Great choice to eat out with friends!

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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 6485 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 59 times today
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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