ZUCCA Italian Restaurant and Bar — Restaurant in Reading

Incredible! I am one who never writes reviews but it would be a tragedy not to. Part of me didn’t want to as I want to keep this place as secret as possible, selfishly. Alas, I can’t help myself and would be doing a disservice to the Reading community (and incredible owners and waitstaff!)

Ok now, for the “review” part. We were in town visiting my Mom and decided to pop in here on a whim. It is a tiny hole in the wall place and anyone with kids knows that is not always the best choice for dining! We decided to give it a go anyway- without a reservation- and we were lucky enough to get a table. (Although i would highly recommend a reservation!) We were seated immediately and greeted by the friendliest waitress, Caitlin. She took our drink orders and endured the 27293 questions from our 7 year old with a smile. We ordered a couple of appetizers to start, bruschetta and calamari. Both delicious. When it came time to order our meals our son asked if they had Mac and cheese (duh). Our waitress, Caitlin, said they didnt have it on the menu but that they could absolutely make a version of Mac and cheese. He was thrilled with that- and a side of meatballs. I ordered the Chicken Parmigiana with linguini. My husband ordered the shrimp Veneziana and my Mom the Pappardelle Bolognese. Every single dish was a m a z i n g. Our very picky son was highly pleased and to be honest, I could have eaten his dish as my meal and been more than happy. It was so.freaking.good!! Easily some of the best Italian food I’ve eaten in a long, long time. We were pleasantly surprised.

Not only the food but the drinks as well. My Mom had some type of apple martini- I wish I could remember the name of it- but again, incredible. My husband ordered a couple old fashioneds which were not on the menu but they knocked it out of the park.

In between all of this deliciousness was a very fidgety and talkative 7 year old. The staff and come to find out, owners, were not only attentive, accommodating and friendly but also super patient and amazing with our son. The owner was so humble. He took the time out of his very busy evening to stop and show our son how to fold some super fancy napkins. Again. And again. He let him take a peek in the kitchen. They even unlocked their breakfast restaurant next door so he could go take a look and poke around. I mean, what?! Our kiddo is certainly not shy and we lovingly refer to him as “the mini mayor” as everyone in town knows him- but this was next level. Some of the nicest people you could ever meet. Delicious food and incredible service, what more could you ask for? Oh… but WAIT! F R E E limoncello shots on Saturdays. What the what?!

Do yourself a favor and GO EAT HERE! NOW! You will not be...

Unfortunately I’m giving Zucca one star because of the way they handled a reservation situation. My family and I had a reservation for 7pm on Saturday. When we arrived around 6:50, we were told there was no table available. We were ignored at the front door for about 10 minutes. When the waitress eventually came over, and we were told “sorry no one is leaving”. Upon asking how long of a wait it would be for a table, we were told that they had no idea and given no other solutions, leaving us scrambling for a place to eat at prime time on a weekend. I’m from Chicago visiting my daughter and had a great dinner here two months earlier. I can’t believe how unprofessionally we were treated- they certainly don’t seem to know how to deal with their patrons. If Zucca doesn’t have the ability to honor reservations, they should not accept them. What a major...

Amazing food, service and atmosphere! I rarely write reviews but I had to give this place some love. We went at 5:45 and were warmly greeted with a wonderful staff and amazing food. Bruschetta and garlic parm wings were a wonderful appetizer. I am probably any waitress’ worst nightmare with the amount of water I drink but the refill service on the water was very much appreciated and didn’t go unnoticed! I got the homemade gnocchi and the generous portion was enough to have for probably one or two more meals. Well worth the price! I really appreciate the pricing of the menu. Very fair and well worth it! The two other people I went with also loved the food as well! We all left very full and very impressed! Will DEFINITELY be back in the future with more people! A well-deserved...