Restaurant review: An Italian feast at Mia Cuccina

We invited GA readers to contribute restaurant reviews and share their opinions on their neighbourhood eateries with us. Here, Sabiha Ghiasi from Mumbai tells us all about Mia Cuccina located in Bandra.

Fancy eateries with contemporary architecture and imposing darbans surround it. Mia Cuccina, though, is the little shack, tucked into a corner, at the end of Gasper Enclave, Pali Hill in Bandra.

About a year ago, birthday celebrations of a friend took me there for the first time and I haven't got enough of it ever since! Its coziness was evident right at the doorway, with the shiny lanterns and the dim lighting. As I entered the restaurant and took in the enthralling whiff of the melting cheese on a pizza at a table nearby, I knew I had arrived. The service is prompt and warm, making it another reason I go running back. The ambience clubbed with the attempt of the management to get as close to being Italian as possible is commendable. After I am seated I blend into the Italian-from-the-heart atmosphere and jump in straight for the main course.

The 12-inch grilled chicken pizza, amongst others, that is completely veiled in cheese and sun-dried tomatoes is probably DHL-ed straight from Italy. Be warned, its drool-worthy goodness is bound to stay with you for a very long time. They are a delight to the vegetarian palate as well, with an assortment of vegetables to choose from, custom make your own pizza!

The lasagna here is definitely the reason Garfield fell in love with the dish. The juicy meat sauce tucked between multiple sheets of cheese and pasta makes one want to kiss the chef's hands. Another appetising option is the well-tossed Caesar salad, with the choice of adding some succulent chicken.

Hard drinks are served but the peach smoothie is an all-time favourite. Although, a brain freeze is almost inevitable!

The mammoth task is to decide between the deserts. The plain white cheesecake and the strawberry mousse topped with whipped cream, tie at number one. But to completely chalk out the chocolate cake and apple tart, would be criminal. All the deserts at Mia's are worth trying. They are light, so an assortment is what I always go for.

At Rs 500-700 per person, including starters, the main course and desert, Mia Cuccina is definitely value for money. So the next time you're around Pali and crave a substantial meal, this Italian joint has to be your pick!

Details:
Mia Cuccina,
Shop No 16/17,
Gasper Enclave,
Bandra (W),
Mumbai

Phone: +91 (0)22 66710158, 66710159, 67104000

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