Why Cucina Vivo is The Star of Italian dining.
Why Cucina Vivo is The Star of Italian dining.
When the craving for Italian hits, there’s one spot on the Gold Coast that delivers big time on the Gold Coast and that’s Cucina Vivo at The Star Gold Coast. This isn’t just another Italian restaurant, it’s a Mediterranean getaway, no passport required.
Inspired by the cliffside restaurants of the Amalfi Coast, Cucina Vivo has serious Euro-summer vibes that’ll transport you straight to Italy. A light-filled space with a retro ‘60s palette of dusty pinks and seafoam blues, set around a giant wood-fired pizza oven. Oh, and there’s an open-air terrace overlooking The Star’s sparkling pool, where you can dine al fresco under the Gold Coast stars. Bellissimo, right?
But let’s get down to the real deal – the food. Whether you’re craving traditional Italian flavours or want a modern twist, Cucina Vivo is all about fresh, local produce combined with Italian flair. Start your meal with Puffed Pizza Bread, drizzled with extra virgin sun-dried tomato olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s a warm, fluffy bite of heaven that’s practically begging to be shared (but we won’t judge if you keep it all to yourself).
For antipasti, you can’t go past their famous Arancini. Crispy mushroom risotto balls with a creamy dill aioli you’ll want to dip everything in. You better also order the Fresh Figs, with aged balsamic, toasted pistachios and honey – sweet, nutty, oh-so-delicious.
When it comes to pizza, Cucina Vivo serves up a variety of mouth-watering masterpieces that would make any Italian Nonna proud. For meat lovers, the Carne Mista with hot salami, pork sausage and ham is a surefire winner, while the Diavola brings the heat with Calabrese salami and gooey fior di latte. Veggie lovers order the Ortolana (eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms, and olives) and thank us later. With gluten-free options and seasonal specialties, there’s a pizza for every palate
Then there’s the pasta. If you’ve got a thing for seafood, the Linguine Marinara is calling your name. This house made pasta is loaded with king prawns, snapper, calamari, black mussels and pipis. It’s a taste of the ocean in every bite, and it’ll have you twirling like a true Italian.
Meat lovers, it’s all about the Bistecca Florentine, a glorious 1kg grass-fed steak cooked to perfection on the wood-fired grill. Served with hand-cut rosemary fries, a rocket salad and a Primitivo wine sauce, it’s the kind of dish that’ll make you want to say, “Mamma mia!”
If veal is your thing, the Veal Scallopine with creamy marsala sauce, field mushrooms, lemon and garlic potatoes and broccolini is a total showstopper.
Now, what’s an Italian meal without dessert? End things on a high note with Tiramisu, layered Italian savoiardi biscuits, mascarpone diplomat crème, Montenegro liqueur and coffee. It’s rich, creamy and downright dreamy – the perfect finale to your Italian feast.
And, of course, no Italian meal is complete without a cheeky cocktail. Treat yourself to an Aperol Spritz or an Italian vino from their impressive wine list and toast to la dolce vita.
Next time the craving for Italy strikes, you know where to go. Grab your friends, bring your appetite, and prepare for a feast that’ll have you saying “Grazie” before you even leave. Every bite is pure Italian joy.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
When: Tuesday – Thursday 5.30pm to Late, Friday and Saturday 5pm – late
Words by Belinda Symons
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be 18 years or over to enter the Casino and Atrium Bar. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.
