Rustica

Located in downtown Kalamazoo at 236 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Rustica specializes in rustic European cuisine using local farmers and vendors whenever possible. With an emphasis on fresh, sustainable and local products, Rustica blends influences from France, Italy, Spain and other European countries with regional Michigan fare. The food at Rustica is simple, fresh, and delicious. Chef de Cuisine Chris Kidd and his Assistant Chef de Cuisine Scott Shattuck are both graduates of The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, NY. Their classical training is clearly reflected in the wide ranging disciplines and food styles executed at Rustica. House-cured meats, hand-made cheese, stocks, soups, and desserts are just some of the specialties that make dining at Rustica special. Rustica offers features on Friday and Saturday to compliment our regular ala carte menu. If you are a true foodie…Rustica will soon be your restaurant of choice.  Our beverage program at Rustica is structured to highlight the food. With over (30) wines by the glass and (180) wines by the bottle, our wine program is deep with unusual and difficult to find European wines. Our beer selection is again firmly rooted in Europe with draught beers from Belgium, Germany and Sri Lanka with additional emphasis placed on local Michigan craft beers by the bottle. Rustica also offers spirits including Absenthe, single malt Scotch, single barrel bourbon, limoncello, cognac and specialty vodkas.  The feel of Rustica is cozy, comfortable and casual. The tables are close together, the kitchen is in the center of the dining room and the space is alive with activity every night. We don’t aspire to be, nor pretend to be, a “special occasion only” restaurant...we want to be your “every occasion” restaurant. Rustica is a local eatery, run by Kalamazoo restaurateurs, with our local clientele as the heart and soul of our concept.  While it is sometimes a challenge to get a table at Rustica, as we have limited table space, most nights the wait, if any, is relatively short. To help mitigate the wait for a table, Rustica has implemented a “call ahead” policy explained here. We welcome you to stop by anytime, or call ahead to get your name on the waiting list, either way we will be happy to see you! Our wine bar in the back of Rustica is small, but perfect for gathering with a few friends for a quick bite, drinks or even a full dinner…you decide.