La Cucina 's website promises to offer those who dine with them a “truly memorable experience.”
They deliver this promise fairly immediately.
The gorgeous stairway entry is memorable enough on its own, as is their impossibly cosy courtyard…
By the time I had walked through the doors I had already been completely been won over. This place is a true urban retreat.
One of those places that is the definition of ‘hygge’, the ambiance here is so lovely that even if the food was mediocre you would still want to pop in for a coffee or a drink. It’s set underground in the Powerscourt Vaults and the room instantly impresses.
Their menu also includes steak, risotto, chicken and even tuna! So don’t be worried if you’re not in the mood for pasta (although you don’t wanna miss out on that gnocchi!)
The Early Bird menu offers the best deals by far, but the food is so nice that all of us agreed we would happily pay full price. Their starters range from €6 to €18 and their mains from €18 to €28.
In true Italian fashion, the wait staff let us sit around for as long as we’d like and didn’t rush our meal at all.
The fact that it’s underground makes it dark and romantic at any time of day, yet even with their roaring wood fire oven it somehow isn’t hot or stuffy at all down there. If it’s a balmy evening and you’re itching to be outside their charming outdoor area is perfect for a drink and some light bites.
A must visit for a date night, and a perfect place for those craving a heart-warming Italian feast.