Tucci’s

The calendar tells us that it is technically still summer, yet teachers, parents, and kids hear the clock ticking and know that the start of a new school year looms around the corner. This has me soaking up as much summer in the city as I can before I soon return to work as a high school teacher. With that in mind, I treated myself to dinner last weekend at Tucci’s Cucina Italiana, one of my favorite eateries in downtown Salt Lake City. Tucci’s, located in Trolley Corners across from Trolley Square, remains a favorite because of its comfortable yet classy atmosphere, warm hospitality from the owner and staff, and consistently delicious food.

Over the course of several prior visits to Tucci’s, I have ordered and loved a variety of menu items including the cannelloni, insalata di salmone, pasta primavera, pollo olio, and cannoli. During my most recent visit, I tried the shrimp puttanesca for the first time, accompanied with a house salad and freshly baked Tuscan bread served warm. In the shrimp puttanesca, crushed red peppers and dry white wine complement tomato and basil in a savory sauce that is served over sautéed shrimp, spaghetti pasta, and parmesan cheese. The sauce delivers a satisfying depth of flavor with a hint of spice that is not overpowering, thus appealing to a broad range of customers’ tastes. I also loved that the tomatoes are left in medium-sized chunks instead of diced or puréed because this adds a bit of hearty texture to the dish. The side salad balances the meal nicely by combining romaine lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, croutons that I think are house-made, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The warm, freshly baked Tuscan bread easily melts in your mouth between bites of the main dish.

I highly recommend Tucci’s Cucina Italiana, whether you are celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal on the town. The restaurant’s warm ambiance and wonderful food will make your experience exceptional. Click here to learn more about Tucci’s Cucina Italiana and its offerings. Free parking is available in the garage behind (east of) the restaurant.