Known for its modern British menu suffused with Italian influences, Cuubo has made a name for itself in Harbourne as a brilliant dining destination. The menu at Cuubo draws inspiration from the south of Italy and the seasons but always aims to let the ingredients and the cooking take the stage. The cooking is under the firm and competent control of local chef Dan Sweet, who spent a large chunk of his career working in the Michelin-starred restaurant Simpsons.
It’s a small restaurant, with around two dozen seats, stripped-back design features, and a neutral colour palette. It’s simple and understated. But the same can’t be said for the Cuubo menu. Here, flavour is king.
There are three menus available; set lunch and dinner, as well as a tasting menu - with a vegetarian option, too. Starters from the dinner menu include pea Gazpacho with stracciatella and sourdough, as well as crispy belly pork with bacon cream, nduja and a fresh, sour chicory salad.
As for the mains, think chicken supreme with wild garlic, asparagus, Morels, Guanciale and Jerseys; crispy aubergine, BBQ purée and parmesan, alongside braised beef, with BBQ lettuce, bacon, gherkin and smoked potato. It might sound like simple stuff, but Sweet has built a reputation for intensely powerful sauces, beautiful combinations and artistic flourishes. And that’s exactly what Cuubo delivers.
The desserts show the same attention to detail, offering a delightful chilled lemon custard served with salted ricotta ice cream, lemon, pistachio and biscuit, as well as experimental plates like rhubarb mini milk, candied celery, peanut praline and vanilla ice cream. Guests can also indulge in an expertly paired wine flight with the tasting menu, to get the full experience.