Cucina Alba has quickly established itself as one of the West Village’s most delightful Italian gems. Helmed by chef Adam Leonti, this restaurant transports you straight to the sun-drenched Italian coast without the plane ticket. The warm, inviting space on Tenth Avenue feels both elegant and welcoming – think honeyed lighting, comfortable seating, and an atmosphere that hums with conversation without drowning it out.

What truly distinguishes Cucina Alba is its devotion to coastal Italian cooking that respects tradition while still feeling fresh. The handmade pasta dishes are inevitable standouts – particularly the cacio e pepe, which achieves that perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. Their seafood offerings sing with the clarity of the Mediterranean, with dishes like the whole roasted branzino that tastes like it was swimming just hours earlier.

Don’t skip the bread basket – Leonti’s background as a skilled baker means even this often-overlooked starter becomes a highlight. The wine list leans heavily Italian, naturally, with selections that complement the food beautifully without requiring a second mortgage.

What makes Cucina Alba worth seeking out is how it manages to feel special without being precious. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over a glass of wine and a perfect plate of pasta, remembering why Italian cooking, when done with this level of care and quality ingredients, never goes out of style.