THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cucina Rustica

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cucina Rustica Restaurant Review:

On one end of downtown Montrose’s Honolulu Avenue, a pharmacy has been converted into this handsome Italian eatery. With its white walls, caramel banquettes with throw pillows and expansive images of Venice --- a nearly photographic study in realism rather than a cheesy mural --- Cucina Rustica’s aesthetic is more modern than rustic. But all the classics can be found on the menu. Start with a very respectable, lemony Caesar or ricotta-and-spinach-filled crespelle bathed in Parmesan cream before moving on to main courses or reliable thin-crusted pizzas. The capricciosa (ham, artichoke hearts, capers, olives and mozzarella topped with a soft egg) is among our favorite pies. Pastas include spaghetti bolognese, penne all’arrabbiata and lasagna al forno. Veal Parmigiana, gnocchi bathed in Gorgonzola-spinach sauce, and filet mignon with peppercorn cream sauce round out an extensive menu capped off by house-made tiramisu.