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Cucina Alba

Cucina Alba, 515 W 18th St, New York

4.8
RESTAURANT RATING: 
EXCEPTIONAL
4.8 out of 5 (12 Ratings)
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1.3 miles Madison Square Garden
About Cucina Alba
The Spotlight on Cucina Alba

Modern Italian Dining Just Steps from the Music

Located in the heart of Chelsea, Cucina Alba brings a fresh, vibrant take on Italian dining to Manhattan’s west side. Just a short walk from major NYC concert venues and The High Line, this chic and contemporary spot offers an elevated yet approachable atmosphere. With warm lighting, stylish interiors, and a menu curated by Chef Adam Leonti, Cucina Alba is perfect for those looking to pair a night of music with high-quality cuisine.

Why Concert-goers love it

Concert-goers appreciate Cucina Alba’s convenient location—just blocks from popular Chelsea venues—making it an easy stop before the show. The restaurant offers efficient service without feeling rushed, and the lively yet polished energy sets the tone for an exciting night out. Whether you're grabbing a cocktail at the bar or enjoying a full meal, it’s a great pre-show warmup spot.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking to share creative pastas and seasonal plates
  • Solo travelers who want to enjoy a quality dinner at the bar before a big show
  • Couples planning a romantic evening with music and fine dining
  • Fans wanting a lively space to kick off the concert atmosphere
  • Budget-conscious music lovers who still want a stylish experience (the lunch and bar menus provide great value)

What People Say

Reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable highlight the inventive, seasonal Italian dishes and the “gorgeous interior” that feels both upscale and welcoming. Guests frequently praise the house-made pastas, attentive staff, and thoughtfully curated wine list. Many mention it’s a perfect spot for a “special night out without being stuffy.”

Areas for Improvement

Cucina Alba’s popularity means it can get busy during peak dinner hours, so making a reservation is smart—especially pre-concert. A few guests noted that the ambient noise level can get high when the dining room is full, but it adds to the energetic vibe for many music fans.

The Bottom Line

Cucina Alba is a stylish, convenient, and delicious choice for a pre-show meal in Chelsea, blending modern Italian cooking with a vibrant atmosphere perfect for music lovers.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Italian
Opening Hours
Mon-Wed 5:00 pm-10:00 pm
Thu-Sat 5:00 pm-11:00 pm
Sun 5:00 pm-9:00 pm
Lunch
Sat, Sun 12:00 pm-2:30 pm

Cucina Alba Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Cucina Alba is #5216 of 14714 things to do in New York City

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Rebecca B, Gates Mills, Ohio
Sat 4 May, 2024
l Even though the place was so busy, we were able to walk in and get bar seating (we didn't have reservations). Damian & Company treated us like long-lost familia. The food was so fabulous, it was...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Lester N, Larchmont, New York
Thu 9 Nov, 2023
l We had a wonderful dining experience at Alba. We visited from 7 pm to 9 pm on a Wednesday. The restaurant was crowded and dinner reservations are a must. Alba's dinner menu is relatively short, but...

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: OMEGAOMEGA, Paris, France
Sun 22 Sep, 2024
l Certainly very good, but horribly expensive and tiny portions. Award wine, only one or two bottles on the wine list for less than 100 USD. Efficient service without more friendliness

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Cucina Alba 515 W 18th St, New York