I was looking for a place to have sit, relax and have breakfast yesterday near Grand Central Station. Nothing in the GCS food court appealed, so I wandered over to the MetLife building which is connected to GCS. I passed by Cucina, which I have literally done hundreds of times and only this time noticed that it had a restaurant. I was immediately seated at the table of my choice. A smiling waitress approached asking if I wanted coffee and a menu and I asked for both. The breakfast menu is somewhat limited, but adequate and they make an effort to accomodate, as for example, I asked if they had something other than just cheese in the omelet and I was told they could add tomato. The food was good but the service was stellar. The waitress exuded good vibes and refilled my coffee within minutes of my draining it. There was no whole wheat toast available, so I was asked if an english muffin was ok, and I was not charged for it as so many other places whould have done. I noted that the manager was constantly patrolling the restaurant, making sure the patrons were well served. I beckoned him over and complimented him on his waitstaff. He thanked me and showed me the lunch and dinner menus, both of which look yummy and with more selections than the breakfast menu, w/ the dinner menu appearing to be a real bargain. I will definitely go there again. There is real value for the money, and the service would not be out of place in a four star restaurant.\r
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Well. it has been a few weeks since I posted this review and my opinion has not changed. The staff merits especial praise, particularly Julie, who may be the best server I have ever encountered, including those at 4 star restaurants. So far, I have only had breakfast; I am looking forward to trying Cucina for lunch.
Pros: excellent waitstaff, good food
Cons: If you don't know where it is, you may not find it coming from Grand Central
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