Phantom
Gourmet
11/02
"With its sexy 40's atmosphere that transports
you straight to Europe, Cuchi Cuchi is an entertaining and memorable night
out. Fantastic cocktails, small internationally inspired dishes meant
for sharing, and sassy service take this fabulous restaurant to the top
of Phantom's list.
Final Score: 87
Date : 11/16/2002
Rating: Gourmet Greatness
Atmosphere: 9
A home away from home for the stylishly eccentric, Cuchi Cuchi in Cambridge
wears relaxing, pale yellow wood walls with a dramatic collection of mismatched
tiles, antique chandeliers, and lamps. The gorgeous old-world bar is set
with ornate stained glass and an aura of naughty romance.
Menu: 9
Every mouth-watering item on the eclectically international menu is served
tapas-style, in small portions meant for sharing and nibbling. High-maintenance
cocktails are fabulously strong and imaginative.
Appitizers: 9
Phantom
began with a bowl of robust Pumpkin Corn Soup, wonderfully choppy in texture
and subtly sweet. The elegant Tuna Carpaccio featured a timbale of glittering
Salmon Tartar, luscious watermelon, and red-onion-studded Couscous, while
scrumptious Scallops Provencale on the half-shell came seared on a garlic-mushroom
bread-stuffing pillow.
Entrees: 9
Moving
on, the tender Braised Duck Shank glistened with its espresso-habanero
glaze. Outstanding Mussels Thessalonika bathed in an excellent acidic
white wine and garlic broth, and the extraordinary Pumpkin Risotto flaunted
its dreamy creamy base, pistachio jewels, and Parmesan dusting.
Desserts: 8
An
exceptional dessert of French Banana Bread, layered fried bananas, banana
bread toasts, and ice cream. Sensational Chocolate Mousse with crunchy
almond brittle.
Portions: 9
Portions
are larger than traditional tapas and perfect for sharing. Two to four
plates are appropriate for each person.
Service: 9
Servers
are larger than life, fun, and capable. The men flash rhinestone necklaces,
and everyone sports snug black outfits that show a bit of skin.
Cleanliness: 9
Also
revealing was the spotless water closet, where the clean and charming
attitude matched that of the dining room.
Value: 9
Most
plates cost a modest $6 to $9, making for a very affordable, yet extravagant
mix-and-match meal.
Location: 7
Cuchi
Cuchi adds to its international neighborhood on Main Street in Cambridge,
not far from its sister restaurant, Dali. Tough on street parking is by
Cambridge permit only, making a taxi the preferred option."
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