Cucina 355

- 355 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110

Introduction / Overview

For New Jersey diners seeking an authentic taste of Italian home cooking, Cucina 355 in Nutley stands out as a beloved local establishment. More than just a restaurant, it's known to locals as a family-friendly venue that delivers traditional Italian cuisine with a distinctive, warm "grandma-like feel." Located right on Franklin Avenue, this restaurant has dedicated over 25 years to perfecting its menu and service, establishing itself as one of the best casual dining spots in North Jersey for those who appreciate classic Italian flavors. From expertly crafted fresh pastas to savory chicken, veal, and seafood dishes, Cucina 355 offers a diverse and comprehensive menu that caters to every craving and ensures a satisfying dining experience.

Cucina 355 successfully merges a cozy, inviting atmosphere with a professional level of service, making it ideal for everything from a quick lunch break to a celebratory group dinner or a special private event. The focus is on quality, with dishes showcasing fresh ingredients and generous portions, a hallmark of excellent New Jersey Italian dining. Whether you're craving a robust Pappardelle Bolognese topped with fresh ricotta, an innovative specialty like the Squid Ink Frutti Di Mare, or one of their acclaimed traditional baked dishes, this Nutley gem promises a meal inspired by generations of home cooking. Crucially for many New Jersey patrons, the restaurant operates as a Bring Your Own Bottle (BYOB) establishment, adding to its appeal for a more personalized and cost-effective evening out.

Location and Accessibility

Cucina 355 is perfectly situated at 355 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA, placing it directly in the vibrant heart of Nutley's main commercial corridor. This prime North Jersey location on Franklin Avenue ensures it is easily accessible for residents across Essex County and surrounding areas. The importance of accessibility is highlighted by the thoughtful amenities the restaurant provides to ensure all patrons can enjoy their visit without impediment.

The facility is noted for its full suite of accessibility features, a significant advantage for families and groups:

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: Ensuring easy entry and exit for all guests.
• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Convenience for guests arriving by vehicle.
• Wheelchair Accessible Restroom and Seating: Providing comfortable and accessible facilities once inside.

Parking is also made easy, which is a major benefit in busy New Jersey neighborhoods. Customers have access to an on-site parking lot, which, although noted in reviews as being small, is supplemented by the availability of free street parking nearby, making arrival and departure less of a concern for local diners. The central location also makes it a straightforward destination for local public transportation routes, appealing to both Nutley residents and visitors.

Services Offered

Cucina 355 provides an extensive range of services designed to accommodate various dining preferences, from intimate dinners to large-scale events. Their dedication to a family-friendly and community-oriented approach is evident in the flexibility of their offerings:

• Full Dine-in Service: Featuring comfortable seating and professional table service in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
• Takeout and Delivery Options: Offering immense convenience through traditional takeout, curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and online ordering for those busy weeknights.
• Private Event Hosting and Catering: Specializing in large-scale services for birthdays, corporate functions, and other celebratory gatherings, with a dedicated team ensuring a seamless experience, as noted by enthusiastic customer reviews.
• BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) Policy: Allowing patrons to bring their own wine and beer to complement their meal, enhancing the value and personal touch of the dining experience.
• Dedicated Menus: Providing a full Kids' Menu for younger guests and comprehensive Vegetarian Options to cater to diverse dietary needs, alongside a full menu of traditional Italian plates.
• Reservations Accepted: Allowing guests to plan ahead and secure seating, which is highly advisable during peak dining hours.
• Quick Bite and Counter Service: Catering to solo diners or those in a hurry, offering a quick yet quality meal solution.

Features / Highlights

What sets Cucina 355 apart as a standout choice for Italian cuisine in New Jersey is a combination of its exceptional food quality and its commitment to a superior customer experience. The restaurant is consistently highlighted for several key features:

• Authentic, Homemade Italian Cuisine: The foundation of the restaurant's reputation, offering traditional dishes prepared with a genuine, homemade touch that evokes a "grandma-like feel."
• The BYOB Advantage: A major feature in New Jersey, this policy allows guests to enjoy their preferred alcoholic beverages without high restaurant markups.
• Exceptional Private Event Services: Recognized by customers for being a perfect venue for events, with attentive and professional staff ensuring a memorable and stress-free celebration.
• Diverse and Innovative Menu: Beyond the classics, the menu boasts unique and fresh pasta creations like Squid Ink Frutti Di Mare and Tonnarelli with colossal crab meat, alongside modern appetizers such as Deconstructed Burrata and Pan-Seared Octopus.
• Accessibility and Convenience: Offering full wheelchair accessibility and multiple parking options (free lot and street parking), ensuring comfort for all patrons.
• Freshly Baked Bread: Mentioned by customers as consistently delicious, fresh, and warm, providing a wonderful start to every meal.

Contact Information

To make a reservation, inquire about catering, or place an order, Nutley and North Jersey residents can reach Cucina 355 using the following contact details:

Address: 355 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA

Phone: (973) 798-4500

Mobile Phone: +1 973-798-4500

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Cucina 355 is choosing a high-quality, authentic, and versatile Italian dining experience right here in Nutley, NJ. For New Jersey locals, the restaurant is worth choosing for three compelling reasons. First, the food is consistently praised for its freshness and adherence to traditional Italian preparation. Dishes like the Pappardelle Bolognese and the extensive selection of chicken, veal, and seafood entrees guarantee that every visit feels like a true indulgence. They offer a range of healthy and gluten-free options, such as Grilled Chicken with Spinach or Broccoli and Gluten-Free Penne Fra Diavolo, making it a thoughtful choice for various dietary needs.

Second, the BYOB policy transforms a typical restaurant dinner into an elevated yet economical night out. Patrons appreciate the flexibility of bringing their favorite wine to pair with their meal, making special occasions feel even more personalized. Finally, the atmosphere and service are what truly create a lasting impression. With a cozy and family-friendly ambiance, Cucina 355 is a place where locals feel right at home. Its proven excellence in hosting private events, with a staff described as incredibly attentive and professional, solidifies its reputation as a trusted Nutley venue for creating special, joyful memories. For traditional flavors, convenience, and a welcoming community feel, Cucina 355 delivers a genuine slice of Italy to North Jersey.

Cucina 355

355 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA