Italian hot: Cucina Alessa

Since it opened along PCH in Newport last year, the wait at Cucina Alessa has been known to reach past an hour at the popular Italian eatery. Thankfully, the owners decided to open a second outpost in Huntington Beach on Main Street (where the old Shorehouse Cafe used to be). Expect the same homemade pastas, reasonable prices and big helpings. Chef-owner Allessandro even takes the time to greet each table. The calamari here is perfectly crisp and light with a zesty arrabbiata sauce, while many have raved about the squash ravioli in a brown butter sage sauce. The pizza here is also worth noting—the crusts are thin and crisp all the way through.

Cucina Alessa is at 520 Main St. in Huntington Beach. 714. 969.2148.