+1 614-486-9200+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Mon
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Tue
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wed
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Thu
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Fri
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sat
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Reserve a table
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.5
Travelers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Food and ambience
Local cuisine, Italian, Contemporary, Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Is this restaurant wheelchair accessible?
Details
About
Opening in the Fall of 2005, Z Cucina topped the list of new restaurants according to Columbus Monthly Magazine. Described as "unobtrusively chic", Z Cucina is a blend of traditional & modern Italian cuisine that also moves with ease into the realm of Mediterranean flavors. With an International Wine List married to the chef's cuisine, Z Cucina offers the rare experience of distinctive dining in a neighborhood setting.
CUISINES
Italian, Contemporary
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner, Late Night
FEATURES
Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Valet Parking, Free off-street parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, American Express, Mastercard, Visa, Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
Contribute
4.5
950 reviews
Excellent
788
Very good
90
Average
42
Poor
21
Terrible
9
Molly W
St. Augustine1 contribution
Aug 2021 • none
What a wonderful establishment with incredible food. The most impressive thing was that We were greeted by Jackie (owner) and before we left talked with Rick (owner) about our experience. YOu can see that the owners obviously care about their guests and it shows in the quaint atmosphere and the delicious food. We were visiting our two sons at OSU and decided to take them here based on previous reviews and it didn't disappoint. The bread bowl with dipping sauce was out of this world. On Mondays, they have a special of spaghetti with meatballs, salad and cannoli which was more than we could eat and superb for the price! We also had the chicken parmigiana and a flatbread pizza. We went home with leftovers and were happy to do so. We highly recommend!
Written August 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
Thank you for posting your thoughts! Your review is very appreciated!
Jackie & Rick Ziliak
Written August 31, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Christina B
Columbus38 contributions
Apr 2020 • family
Decided to give this place another chance after a mediocre experience on Valentines Day and boy am I glad I did. We got take out because Covid and they brought it right to the car while wearing a mask. We got spinach salad with the best Chianti dressing, and it came with wonderful bread on the side. For entrees we got new Italian sausage tortelli pasta which was delightful, but the real show stopper was the lasagna, it has a smoky flavor that was a real treat. For the dessert we had tiramisu which was so perfect it will bring a tear to your eye :)
In addition the customer service was fast and very safe and the owners care and kindness is legendary. Thanks Z Cucina!
Written April 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rickz407
Thank you! We hope to have you back for "dine-in" experience soon!
Written April 17, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mary L
1 contribution
Mar 2021 • family
This restaurant was amazing. I Would recommend it for a couples romantic dinner or a family gathering
The staff was very professional and knowledgeable
The food was amazing, we had the mushroom soup (special ) and the charcuterie board . We also paired it with a perfect Pinot noir. The atmosphere was inviting , elegant , and comfortable. ( especially during these COVID times, the tables were well spaced and everything was exceptionally clean ) I would highly recommend it to all !!!
Written March 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
Thank you for the love!
Written March 19, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sergio S
Columbus77 contributions
Mar 2020 • none
Just by good fortune we stumbled onto Z Cucina's Abigailz event. Red-checkered table cloths, Lambrusco, Chianti in straw fiaschi, a great selection of appetizers, spaghetti with a choice of sugo (4 red and 4 white), melt-away stewed pot roast and gnocchi, tirimisu.
I will be back with a large part and plan on making a night of it!
Written March 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rickz407
Thank you very much, Sergio. We look forward to planning the group dinner!
Written March 9, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paramourfa
64 contributions
Jun 2021 • none
We were staying overnight in Columbus and wanted a special meal for this first road trip during the pandemic. The restaurant was all we hoped for. We had a quiet table inside and a wonderfully attentive waiter. Everything was near perfection. We ordered three courses to share including a mixed salad, a caramelized onion pizza with pepperoni (our creation) and a ravioli dish with shrimp added (our creation as well). The food portions and quality were excellent, filling, and very satisfying. We finished off the meal with a warm chocolate chip cookie for just the right amount of dessert. I should add that the dense bread with the tomato based dipping sauce at the beginning of the meal was a wonderful touch as well. I see why this restaurant is so highly rated. Hopefully, our travels will take us again to Columbus for a repeat visit.
Written June 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
Thank you for visiting us while in Columbus! We hope to see you again someday.
Written June 27, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Angela S
Cleveland6 contributions
Sep 2020 • family
I was so thrilled to finally have a good Italian dinner. I’m 💯 Italian/Sicilian and very rarely eat Italian food out. I’m from Cleveland and cane down to Columbus with my sister for my birthday. We found Z Cucina and were Not disappointed!! Great atmosphere! Our server was awesome and they had a really good wine selection with wine actually from Italy which we appreciate! Our appetizer of their homemade ricotta was absolutely fabulous! We tried of their homemade two pasta dishes also that were so good! The owner was so lovely to take time to talk with us after our meal and we told her we were so excited to have a great Italian dinner out! Thank you Z Cucina and we definitely will be eating again at your restaurant the next time we are in Columbus! GRAZIE Angela Siciliano
Written September 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rickz407
Thank you, Angela! We can't wait to have you back!
Written September 14, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nancy M
5 contributions
Jun 2022 • none
We relocated to this area from northeast Ohio 3 years ago and have always been disappointed when trying 4 and 5 star restaurants in the Columbus area. None compared to the quality to which we were accustomed. Not so with Z Cucina di Spirito! This is a 5 star restaurant in every aspect. We were greeted and seated by the owner, Rick as soon as we walked in the door. Our waitress, Angela, was friendly, patient (I couldn't decide what to get), and attentive throughout our visit. The cocktails, wine, tapas, salad (the Z Caesar salad is a must try), entrees (whether traditional Italian or "modern"), and desserts were all 5 star worthy and favorably compared to the authentic Italian food we used to enjoy in Little Italy in Cleveland. The atmosphere is relaxing and relatively quiet thanks to the sound absorbing decor and my husband and I agreed we could not have found a better place to celebrate our anniversary (they even presented us with a lovely gratuitous dessert). We will definitely be frequenting this restaurant!
Written June 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
We are thrilled to know that we hit all of the marks with you both! It was nice meeting you and we look forward to your return.
Rick & Jackie Ziliak
Written June 9, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
HandsomePete
New York City50 contributions
Aug 2022 • none
Grandview Heights is a neighborhood just west of the more popular Short North neighborhood and this restaurant hits the mark if you want a good meal in a casual atmosphere.
We had the option of sitting outside and we took it. They make their cheese and pasta on site so we had to get the Caprese salad to start and I also got the meatballs which I guess is one of their specialties and they didn't disappoint. Just spicy enough and great texture. Would definitely get these again.
For entrees, I had the lobster triangoli which was unique but delicious and I really enjoyed it. My wife had the ricotta gnocchi and enjoyed that as well.
Good wine and booze selection. Attentive service.
Fine food in a charming neighborhood slightly off the beaten path if you're just in Columbus to visit. I'd visit here again.
Written August 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
Thank you very much! We do hope to see you back someday soon!
Jackie & Rick Ziliak
Written August 24, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excursion305502
1 contribution
Jul 2021 • couples
Such a welcoming place, great service especially in light of their being short staffed. Our server, Mark was attentive and enjoyable to interact with. Our special treat (besides the delicious mousse dessert they treated us to for our anniversary) was meeting and talking with the owner, Jackie! She was delightful and so sweet. It was a truly wonderful evening for celebrating our 36th anniversary!
Written July 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
Thank you for celebrating your anniversary at Z Cucina! It was nice to meet you both!
Written July 23, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Northern_Possum
Fair Haven100 contributions
Dec 2020 • family
I arrived at my daughter's house, hungry after traveling all day. The drinks arrived quickly, appetizers were tasty, and the main course dishes were excellent. Everything was served quickly, hot, and with friendly service. We will be back for sure!
Written December 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
We are happy to know that you plan to come back and see us again! Thank you!
Written December 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SpaChick2
Lima835 contributions
May 2024 • couples
This place is top notch both with food and service! Consistently impressed with the quality of the food and tonight was no exception. We had 2 classic meals - chicken parm ($25) and the Monday Meatball price fixe menu (salad, spaghetti and meatballs plus cannoli for $30). The pickles beet salad with pistachio was delicious. We added in an appetizer of Brussels sprout leaves tossed in a honey mustard before being baked or fried at the recommendation of our outstanding server Taylor. He also suggested the vanilla bourbon affogato for dessert. Again, delicious.
All the way around 5 stars!
Written May 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick ziliak
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed your time with us.
Written June 19, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Eddie I
County Cork52 contributions
Jan 2020 • business
We found this place by chance and wow was not disappointed. It was a Wednesday evening quite quiet but the food was to die for. Service was outstanding the waitress and the owner truly know their wine and the food was amazing. You have to try the meatballs. Even though it was a starter it was a meal in itself. Normally we eat and go but the warm atmosphere, great wine and an amazing menu made us sit all night. You must try the sweet menu! Well done everyone, outstanding.
Written January 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rickz407
Glad you found us! Hope to see you the next time you visit Columbus. It was nice meeting you all.
Written January 30, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stay753433
2 contributions
Jun 2023 • couples
Friendly service. Food was good, not great. Semi-private seating felt more like a bar area seating in the walkway. Scallops came with 3 smallish scallops on bed of couscous that was decent flavor but served crazy hot. Scallops were overly salty but perfectly cooked. Linguine with pomodora was just ok. Tuscan Tapas Tuesday small plates were flavorful but surprisingly tiny. Overall the experience did not live up to my expectations based on the price and review scores.
Written June 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick ziliak
Thank you for the feedback. Please call the restaurant, 614-486-9200 or email, info@zcucina.com so we can speak directly to you about your experience.
Written July 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Roger C
1275 contributions
Aug 2021 • none
This review is way late, so my apologies for not raving about Z Cucina earlier!
I've dined at the Grandview location for over 12 years, and visited the Dublin location twice. Both are nice dining experiences. Know that the Granview location is much smaller and can be just a little louder, as the Dublin location is quite a bit bigger.
That being said, there's a reason they hold the #1 spot. The food, the service and the experience are all amazing. From the minute you walk in, you know you are going to be treated well. The menu, while somewhat short, shows that they do everything from scratch that same day. The goat cheese rav are not to be missed. I usually get that every time unless they have a featured dish of the day that takes me away from it. I've had their chicken parm (yum!), and always get their calamari to start the meal (fresh, crispy and perfectly fried).
Do yourself a favor and check either of their locations out. It's certainly not what I would consider expensive, but it isn't a cheap meal either. For the quality of food and service, it is well worth it. You won't regret the decision. In my mind, it's the best Italian food in Columbus.
Written September 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick z
Thank you so much, Roger!
Jackie & Rick Ziliak
Written September 28, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
GoPlaces42772046955
14 contributions
Sep 2022 • couples
We had a lovely date here. We were walking through Grandview trying to decide where to eat, when Rick, one of the owners of Z Cucina, invited us in. We had a very tasty meal on a very pleasant patio. When I could not find a dessert on the menu I could have (diet restrictions), they made something special for me. I did not even ask them too. They offered and it was amazing! It was a really great experience all the way around.
Written June 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rick ziliak
Thank you!
Written July 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
…
Showing results 1-15 of 946
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Best nearby hotels
See all 
Best nearby restaurants
See all 
Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing