THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cugino's Restaurant of Farmington Awards

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cugino's Restaurant of Farmington Restaurant Review:

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Some restaurants feed customers --- others nourish guests as though they are family. Cugino's is solidly the latter sort: a community-minded establishment where old-world recipes and hospitality buoy spirits. Some Route 4 commuters crawl past every day without realizing one of the Farmington Valley's finest Italian kitchens is nestled inside a nondescript brick building across the street from a landmark everyone knows: Farmington Miniature Golf. Inside, autumnal hues, rich woodwork and enticing aromas welcome you "home," even though you're in a business park. Two things routinely impress us: flavorful enhancements to traditional dishes and the value. Order from the "Beat the Moon" menu before 6 p.m. any day, and you'll dine well for $19.99. Other daily specials often entice us away from favorites like the Tuscan salad with its zesty olives, polenta bites, roasted garlic and fresh mozzarella. It's the perfect warm-up to penne alla vodka, made with chef/owner Mario Cirikovic's grandmother's recipe. You won't find a bland dish: shrimp scampi is amped up with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs; chicken Mediterranean has a touch of truffle oil. And gluten-free and vegan homemade pastas add to the restaurant's universal appeal. A versatile wine list and seasonal selection of beers not only complement meals, they make the bar an ideal after-work spot. Dessert selections always include a gelato du jour, or say "buona notte" with tiramisu and espresso.