Cucina Carini - Mount Laurel

My sister took me to this restaurant for my birthday on Saturday the 1st, and we were the only customers there, enjoying the outdoor seating. Unfortunately, we were quite disappointed to find that the only pasta included with the meal is spaghetti, and choosing a different type would cost an additional $1.00. Since I don't like spaghetti, we both decided to pay the extra fee. However, we were let down by the portion sizes. Given the lunch prices, the servings were unacceptably small. I ordered the chicken marsala and received just one thin slice of chicken along with a small side of spaghetti. My sister chose the seafood alla lasagna and felt that her portion was similarly lacking. I can only imagine how much dinner prices must be, and if the portion sizes are the same, it’s definitely not worth it. I initially came here because I appreciate outdoor seating, and it can be challenging to find good, reasonably-priced places. I had considered returning for dinner since my neighbor wants to celebrate my birthday, but after this experience, I won't be coming back. I'll seek out another spot where I can enjoy sitting outside.

We just finished dinner here on a bustling Monday night, and the four of us unanimously agreed that the food was outstanding. My top picks were the calamari appetizer, the seafood fra diavolo, and the bolognese. It was great to see the owner actively checking on tables and assisting the staff – it's always nice to witness that level of involvement. There’s something heartwarming about family-owned and operated restaurants. We definitely plan to return time and time again!

My first visit to this restaurant had its ups and downs. My waitress, Alyssa, was exceptional! She was sweet, funny, and very attentive, always checking in on me. When I asked for her recommendation, she suggested the crab ravioli, which was fantastic. However, I did have an issue with the lack of bread at the table. Alyssa mentioned that they were making more and assured me several times that it would be out soon, but unfortunately, it never arrived. One of the main reasons I love Italian cuisine is for the bread, so its absence really affected my experience. Aside from that, it was a wonderful meal, but the missing bread put a damper on it.

Me and my husband was looking for somewhere new to eat for our anniversary dinner and Cucuna Carini more than hit the spot. Melissa was our server and she was walking in the door with us as we arrived. She went right to work and got our warm bread and even gave good suggestions for our meals. I even got dessert and she put “Happy Anniversary “ on the dessert plate for us. We will be traveling to New Jersey again to enjoy other meals at this restaurant. The food was delicious and the serving sizes was more than we expected. I recommend you make your reservation and go enjoy the atmosphere, service, food and relaxing music.

This visit was long overdue. Last time we were there was a work Christmas luncheon in the bitter snowy cold several years back. Tonight was a laid back dinner in a private little room! Romantic. Next time we will definitely bring a bottle of wine. We shared mozzarella sticks that tasted a step up from the Restaurant Depot kind so many restaurants have. He ordered veal parm which neither of us have had in ages. I tasted his and it was so tender! I ordered potato gnocchi that had some bacon and spinach in it. Service was friendly and efficient. The restaurant is adorable and such a lovely change from the strip malls, etc. Family run. A very satisfying dinner, not expensive in the least, lots of leftovers for tomorrow, and we will return soon.