The beloved La Rustica restaurant on Kennedy Street in Kingston has relocated to the Kingston Foreshore, trading as La Rustica by the Lake. The same old-fashioned rustic feel that is so characteristic of La Rustica is still present at its new location, but with a modern update and a few new additions.

Before even stepping foot in the restaurant, you may notice the large floor to ceiling glass bi-fold doors running the entire length of the large restaurant allowing passer-by’s to peek inside. Expect these doors to be open in the summertime to enjoy the lake views.

The large bar area is a great feature with beer, wine and spirits displayed in country-style caged shelves hanging down from the ceiling. There is beer on tap, a sparkling coffee machine and a long wooden counter top that wraps around to illuminate the entire bar area.

The restaurant is spacious with wooden panelling used cleverly in its recessed ceiling where ethereal wood and iron chandeliers, imported from Italy, cast a sensual warm glow throughout the restaurant. The plant wall is another standout feature with plants and fresh herbs such as rosemary and lavender growing from the pots.

Hearty Italian food is central to the menu offering a variety of pasta, pizza, seafood, steaks and dessert. One of the signature dishes is the Spaghetti Pescatore mixed with clams, mussels, prawns and squid in a garlic, white wine and tomato sugo. It’s guaranteed to leave you wanting more of its wonderful aroma and the mouth-watering sugo.

A family-run business for nearly 25 years, you may see brother and sister Peter Callipari and Katrina Spadafora running the front of house with Maria Callipari also in the bar. Father Tony Callipari can be found in front of the pizza oven while head chef Giuseppe Spadafora manages the kitchen, with countless other family members and that family-oriented feeling spills out into the remainder of the restaurant. Diners can enjoy quality Italian fare and a glass of wine in a comfortable and warm setting, similar to that of a happy Italian family home.

La Rustica by the Lake is bigger and better than ever. Why not head down to the Kingston Foreshore to enjoy this warm Italian hospitality yourself. Don’t feel like eating in? La Rustica by the Lake can make anything on its menu to take away.

Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, La Rustica also serves breakfast each weekend.