Cucina Enoteca Arrives Irvine Spectrum Center

cucina-enotecaContemporary kitchen meets rustic farmhouse at Cucina Enoteca, a new spinoff of San Diego’s Cucina Urbana at Irvine Spectrum Center.

Cucina Enoteca combines executive chef Joe Magnanelli’s California-inspired Italian classics—prepared with organic, sustainable and local products—and a wine shop. Chef de cuisine is Lulu De Rouen, former chef at Pinot Provence in Costa Mesa, recently at Fig & Olive in West Hollywood. Signature dishes include ricotta gnudi, stuffed squash blossoms, veal piccata, short-rib pappardelle and foraged-mushroom and truffle-oil pizza. “Vasi” are mini-mason jars filled with seasonal creations such as Gorgonzola walnut mousse to be tasted atop Tuscan toast; kids enjoy the make-your-own Modo Mia Pizza. Wines are offered at retail prices, plus $10 corkage. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine, 949.861.2222. www.cucinaenoteca.com

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