This large Italian trattoria burst onto the Ulster County dining scene in the summer of 2008, and has since been winning over diners with its laid-back ambience and simple Italian food. Executive Chef Gianni Scappin — formerly of Rhinebeck’s Gigi’s — has created a straightforward menu, rejecting the current trend towards culinary frivolity in favor of impeccably interpreted tradition, like rigatoni with sausage, peas, and just a touch of cream. Whether it’s white beans with sage and shrimp or thin-crust pizza, Cucina has elevated Mama’s meatballs to culinary mastery. Mangia!
â–º Cucina
109 Mill Hill Rd., Woodstock
845-679-9800 or www.cucinawoodstock.com
