Cugini - Berkeley

I celebrated my birthday here recently and was eager to try their risotto with ribeye, as this is one of the few places I know in the East Bay that has it. Got... read more I celebrated my birthday here recently and was eager to try their risotto with ribeye, as this is one of the few places I know in the East Bay that has it. Got a table for 4 outside since I had my dog with me without any reservations or wait time. Complementary bread and balsamic vinegar and olive oil was brought out as a starter. My group had the fried calamari appetizer, seafood penne, crab ravioli, and pepperoni pizza. My risotto was excellent but the ribeye was minimal and a very thin cut. Everyone in my group was happy with their dishes. As a bonus they brought out gelato for my birthday. Prices are kind of expensive but their service and food was great. Will recommend and will be back to try other items on their menu. Price per person: $30–50 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Price per person: $30–50 Recommendation for vegetarians: Highly recommend Vegetarian offerings: Vegetarian menu or section Diet... read more Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Price per person: $30–50 Recommendation for vegetarians: Highly recommend Vegetarian offerings: Vegetarian menu or section Dietary restrictions: There are gluten free options Parking space: Somewhat difficult to find parking

As a single woman, dining alone at a restaurant bar has always made me feel uneasy. I can’t help but wonder about newly divorced individuals or widows/widowers—... read more As a single woman, dining alone at a restaurant bar has always made me feel uneasy. I can’t help but wonder about newly divorced individuals or widows/widowers—should they be “penalized” for choosing to support a restaurant as solo diners? I’m unclear on why they changed their policy, but my experience felt incredibly demeaning and embarrassing. They’ve not only lost my patronage but also that of the many friends I’ve brought to their restaurant over the years.

I haven't had the chance to dine in at the restaurant since COVID began, but it remains one of my favorites. Before March 2020, whenever I wanted a special nigh... read more I haven't had the chance to dine in at the restaurant since COVID began, but it remains one of my favorites. Before March 2020, whenever I wanted a special night out and craved Italian cuisine, Cugini was my top choice. Even during the pandemic, it was my go-to for delicious takeout when I wanted a taste of normal life. Although I haven't been able to sit down there since early 2020, I'm really looking forward to it soon. They make my favorite pizza, which is quite a statement considering I absolutely love Cheese Board! Cugini is an unbeatable destination for a night out. Please support this hidden gem and see for yourself!

This restaurant has a nice atmosphere but the food and service were just average. Wine is an important part of dining out for my friends and I and the wine glas... read more This restaurant has a nice atmosphere but the food and service were just average. Wine is an important part of dining out for my friends and I and the wine glasses were probably the worst I’ve ever drank wine from. They definitely need to upgrade their wine glasses!