THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cucina Paradiso

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cucina Paradiso Restaurant Review:

With its dark wood wainscoting, linen-clad tables and marble-topped bar, this warm Tuscan-inspired trattoria is a welcome part of the Westside's restaurant-poor Palms district. Cucina Paradiso presents a familiar format, pulled off seamlessly by a pair of veteran restaurateurs. Chef/co-owner Isaac Rivera adds style to a menu of familiar comfort dishes, but is wise enough to employ innovation sparingly and judiciously. For starters, we particularly like the scampi and grilled polenta with porcini mushrooms and a truffled Fontina fondue---both with sauces that demand to be mopped up with the crusty Italian bread. Pastas, like pappardelle with a ragù of pheasant and morel mushrooms, are satisfying; and among entrées we are very pleased with a filet mignon served with a mild Gorgonzola cream, as well as a spirited blackened tuna. During truffle season, generous shavings of the prized fungus turn familiar dishes into something truly special. Finish up with a panettone bread pudding or panna cotta before heading back to the adjoining Palmer Room for some soulful live jazz.