Reviews - Cugini
Reviews summary
Cugini, a long-time favorite for many, draws diners with its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. With highlights like exceptional ravioli, brick oven pizza, and a commendable Chicken Limone, the restaurant offers a flavorful escape. However, recent changes in seating policy for solo diners, particularly women, have sparked disappointment. Additionally, some guests reported inconsistencies in food quality and service, such as stale bread and incorrect orders. Although the ambiance remains charming and the wine list extensive, there are calls for improvement, particularly regarding bread offerings and glassware. Despite mixed reviews, Cugini still holds a special place in many hearts as a cherished Italian eatery.
Was Michael Prince at Cugini a mag?
Dinner at this restaurant has a vibrant atmosphere, and I can't get enough of the chicken Alfredo—it's my favorite dish! Although the waiter did forget our salad, it wasn't a major issue. The food is wonderfully rich and incredibly satisfying. View all feedback.
What Sidd Narang dislikes about Cugini:
This food is not authentic Italian; it feels more like an Americanized version of Italian cuisine made in Mexico. I don’t mean to be harsh, but the quality was really disappointing. The complimentary bread and butter tasted like a stale baguette, dry and cold. When I asked for a fresh basket, they just microwaved the same bread. To make matters worse, we ordered a Sicilian pizza but were served a completely different... View all feedback.
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Reviews from various users
Last update : 31.07.2025
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 Dietary restrictions: There are gluten free options Parking space: Somewhat difficult to find parking
Last update : 30.10.2024
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 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!
Last update : 17.10.2024
Delicious meal and very good service.
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!
Sometimes food is over salted. Thstvbeing said, the salads, pastas, and entrees are extremely delicious and cooked. They make a fabulous Martini. I wish they left their Christmas lights up. They were so festive and Italian. Love eating there.
The waitress was disrespectful to my wife, we will not return.
This food is not authentic Italian; it feels more like an Americanized version of Italian cuisine made in Mexico. I don’t mean to be harsh, but the quality was really disappointing. The complimentary bread and butter tasted like a stale baguette, dry and cold. When I asked for a fresh basket, they just microwaved the same bread. To make matters worse, we ordered a Sicilian pizza but were served a completely different one. They did correct the order eventually, but we had to wait another 10 minutes. Overall, it was not a great experience.
Last update : 15.06.2023
It offers more dishes and specialties from this restaurant, many Italian favorites and mainstays with a hint of Californian slow food. Good place for a group or even as a solo dinner with a book. Outdoor seating areas.
The ravioli and penne pasta at this restaurant are amazing. The garlic bread is exceptional. The staff is friendly and the ambiance is laid back. A great spot for vegetarians.
I haven't been able to dine in at this restaurant since the start of Covid-19, but it remains one of my favorite dining spots. Prior to March 2020, whenever I wanted a nice night out and was craving Italian food, Cugini was my go-to place. This hasn't changed during the pandemic, as Cugini has been my choice for delicious Italian takeout when I needed a special treat. Although I haven't had the chance to sit down in their restaurant since early 2020, I am eagerly looking forward to doing so soon. Cugini makes my favorite pizza, and that's saying something because I absolutely love Cheese Board! Cugini is always a reliable option for a great night out. I encourage you to support this gem and discover it for yourself!
Marvelous gem! I had a very traditional Fruitti de Mare type dish over linguini, magnifico! Good service, even the bus boys were excellent. Come for the food and service...
I had a fantastic lunch at this restaurant. The bread was fresh and soft, the best I've ever had. The waitress was incredibly helpful and attentive. I will definitely be back. I highly recommend trying the ravioli and spaghetti. The fresh fruit tart was decent, but the crust was not completely cooked.
Last update : 27.04.2023
The food here is fantastic, and the homemade bread is absolutely delicious—definitely my favorite! The atmosphere is lovely, and both the entrees and desserts are delightful. This is the perfect spot for a casual pizza night or a more elaborate celebratory meal!
I absolutely adore this restaurant! It's very family-friendly, with wonderful food and excellent service. The drinks are delicious too! I can't wait to return!
My Medical office is just down the street (Solano Ave. ....Cuginis is our go to place for culinary R&R...in a crowded Berkeley foodie field, Cousins runs with the best. Adam Duhan, M.D.
This restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Both the food and service are exceptional.
My family loves this place. We lived in Berkeley 2007-2008, and often came here to eat their delicious food. We can't wait to visit again on our next stay in Berkeley the coming winter
