Venga Cucina

Everything we Tried at Venga Cucina Nestled in the Junction, Venga Cucina is owned by Gino Benevenga, a certified master of Roman-style flatbread pizza, known as pinsa romana. One of only two certified masters in Canada, Gino offers this authentic Italian specialty at his restaurant, the only in the country certified by the Associazione Originale Pinsa Romana. The pinsa stands out for its irresistible aroma, crispy crust, light and airy center, and exceptional digestibility, thanks to a unique blend of carefully selected cereal flours, and high hydration. In addition to the pinsa, Venga Cucina's menu highlights locally sourced ingredients, including delicious fresh pastas hand made by @pettifinefoods-conveniently located right across the street - seasonal antipasti, and an impressive selection of wines and cocktails. An absolute must try gem in the Junction! 🎥 @melissa_foodie.fun

November 22, 2024 on Google

Was there for 60th birthday party Food was absolutely delicious. True Italian cuisine. Polenta fries and pinsa pizza were amazing. Must try and the owners came out to greet us. Truly a remarkable place to eat. Want to come back for the octopus salad. Our dinner was paid for by the hostess of the party

September 24, 2024 on Google

First time at Venga and everything was fabulous. The server was amazing and so attentive, top notch! The owner was engaging and told us the story of the pizza doughs and the food was absolutely delicious!! It's a great spot and a hidden gem. We'll definitely be back. Thank you for treating us so well for my sister and her friends birthdays. Great experience!

September 24, 2024 on Google

The staff was so friendly and the food was incredible. A great experience all around. I highly recommend the pizzas and the pasta made in the cheese wheel (if available). Amazing.

August 23, 2024 on Google

This was a great spot to stop for authentic Italian. From the hostess to the sever to the owner, everyone stopped by to make sure we were taken care of. The food was fantastic as well.

July 27, 2024 on Google

This 5-star review is VERY much well deserved. Having lived in the neighborhood for the better half of a decade it's actually quite a shame my partner and I have never properly given Venga Cucina a chance, as it's hard to come by Italian food that really hits the mark in all aspects. Don't be fooled by the exterior because as soon as you step into the restaurant, you are transported into a rustic and romantic hideaway with brick walls, beautiful paintings and glossy wood tables. Our servers were INCREDIBLY attentive and hospitable and took the time to explain all specials and made excellent recommendations. My partner and I ordered the octopus salad and mussels to start, both of which were fresh, delicious and flavorful. The highlight for me was the pinsa. I'd never had a pins before and with our servers recommendation ordered the pinsa prataiola as we love mushrooms and it was one of the best things I've ever had. The truffle oil and caramelized onions along with the crispy exterior and light interior make the pinsa the superior relative to the usual pizza. Again, not a pizza the way most people know it- as the process in which the dough is made is very meticulous- as the owner Maria described. The dough is made in house twice a week and Venga Cucina is one of the only places in the city to have the official seal of pinsa certification. Can't recommend this place enough. Gino and Maria (owners) are incredibly sweet and engaging with their patrons and it's evident that their passion translates so well into the food and atmosphere of Venga Cucina. Stepping into the place and enjoying the superb food is akin to receiving a warm hug from your Italian mom (and I'm not even Italian 😂) Will be back for that cheese wheel pasta! Thanks again for the wonderful experience. -Sima

July 12, 2024 on Google

This is a neighborhood gem. The owners are charming and welcome every guest like their family. The food is excellent with a specialty of "pinsa" which is a Roman Focaccia that has been 4-day fermented. Other great traditional Italian dishes from a large menu. Decent wine list and nice glassware. I'll be back.

April 2, 2024 on Google

Wowwww!! Cannot wait to return!! What an incredible restaurant: very welcoming and cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, amazing food, great prices - you really cannot go wrong here. JESSE took care of us on the patio, gave us fantastic recommendations, took the time to chat with us, he was phenomenal. BIG THANK YOU, JESSE!! You really made our experience that much better. The owner/chef came by our table after dinner to see how our meal went (first time I have ever experienced this at a restaurant and it was so kind). The burrata salad and calamari were to die for. The mushroom truffle pizza was delicious and the eggplant rigatoni was good. The tiramisu was just melt in your mouth creamy goodness. Solid 5/5!!!

July 24, 2023 on Google