Cuore Italiano 🇮🇹 — Restaurant in Leuven

Original review: A worse example of customer service does not exist. Do not politely mention the food is not great because you will have the wrath of Italy upon you. I wish I had filmed the interaction and outed this downright rude, offensive, and arrogant owner. From the few responses they have given on negative reviews, their lack of hospitality knowledge is evident. I would avoid at all cost.

Update: As expected, the owner responded in his usual aggressive and defensive manner, filled with personal attacks and wild fabrications. This seems to be a pattern, as many other reviews mention the same behavior. Instead of simply addressing the issue professionally, he resorted to exaggerations, false accusations, and an unnecessarily hostile tone, which only reinforces what I initially wrote.

To clarify, I did not storm out, nor was I physically aggressive. I was asked to leave after politely mentioning my pasta was undercooked, a fact he chose to argue rather than address. I stood my ground when he continued to belittle me, and I refused to pay for a meal I was not allowed to finish. His response proves exactly why so many customers leave with the same impression.

What is particularly ironic is how he accuses others of not understanding Italian culture while failing to understand the culture of the country he operates in. Flemish people are generally kind, humble, and non-confrontational. We do not cause a scene unless truly provoked. The fact that so many reviews describe similar experiences only highlights how far his lack of professionalism can push even the most easygoing customers.

There is a difference between standing by your culinary traditions and lacking basic hospitality skills. One is admirable, the other is simply classless. If you enjoy dining in a place where criticism, however polite, is met with hostility and arrogance, this might be the place for you. Otherwise, there are plenty of excellent restaurants where both the food and the service reflect true culture, not just an exaggerated sense of...

Service very poor. I had to wait quite a while to get a glass of water and order a drink. The place is run by father a mediocre cook at best and a lazy son. The caprese sucked.. cheese was good but bad tomatoes and couldn’t taste basil or balsamic or olive oil and as a matter of fact any salt or pepper… then I wanted a seafood dish with a cream sauce and was told they don’t do that. I got a seafood dish with tiny clams- 2 calamari rings, a large prawn with shell and head on and shrimp that wasn’t cleaned with shells on and not cleaned. The tomato sauce tasted like out of the jar no taste of of in garlic salt pepper anything- disgusting and not cleaned seafood- the waiter didn t ask how my food was- he probably spit on it as I pointed out that people who came later were eating and I didn’t get my entree.. then I was gone but he did t ask again how it all was- his red wine recommendation was truly terrible..I was not going to wait for anymore for another dessert offer and asked for the bill… paid over 60 for a truly bad tasting meal. I would never go back there. Not...

If you’re looking for an authentic Italian culinary experience in the heart of Leuven, Cuore Italiano is the perfect place. Located at Mechelsestraat 43, this restaurant offers genuine and traditional Italian cuisine, prepared by Italian chefs who bring the passion and tradition of Mediterranean flavors directly to your plate.

The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes you feel at home, making every visit a memorable experience. The dishes take you on a journey through the regions of Italy, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients that enhance every course.

The pizzas, in particular, are praised for their authenticity and flavor, often considered among the best in Leuven and the surrounding area. Don’t forget to save room for the homemade desserts, which provide the perfect ending to a delicious meal.

Thanks to Antonio for the warm...