Rusicto combines the best of Italian and Spanish cuisine under one roof. Their menu features vibrant Spanish tapas, wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted pasta, and award-winning Paella.
Founder and Chef Gabriel Padilla has nearly 30 years in the restaurant industry and gained extensive experience working for some of the top Spanish and Italian restaurants in Chicago, such as Oggi Trattoria, Piccolo Sogno, and Café Iberico. His dream of owning a restaurant became a reality in 2017 when he decided to blend the best of both worlds and opened the original Rustico location on Lake Street. Rustico quickly became a standout spot in the Oak Park dining scene known for transcending boundaries.
In 2022 Rustico moved to its new home at 155 S Oak Park Ave, expanding its capacity to 250 guests, making it one of the largest restaurants in Oak Park. The original Rustico location was transformed into a sister restaurant, Hoja Santa, focusing on elevated Mexican cuisine.
Chef Padilla has partnered with Chef George to bring his vision to life at Rustico's new location. Their culinary philosophy is rooted in their commitment to quality. All ingredients are meticulously selected and sourced locally whenever possible. Padilla focuses on matching Spain's bold, vibrant flavors with the rich, traditional tastes of Italy, ensuring the essence of the Mediterranean is highlighted in every dish.
7 Reasons You Have to Visit
Let’s delve into reasons why Rustico should be at the top of your list for your next meal.
The Tapas
Tapas make for a perfect group dining experience. These sampler-sized dishes can be combined to make a complete meal or can be treated like appetizers. Rustico offers both hot and cold tapas with Spanish classics like patatas bravas (fried potato cubes in a spicy tomato sauce) and gambas al ajillo (sauteed shrimp, garlic, green onions, cherry tomatoes, chili flakes, white wine) as well as some Italian favorites like their calamari con gambas (fried calamari, shrimp, lemon, garlic aioli) and rustico albondigas (veal, pork, beef, meatballs in a spicy tomato sauce served with parmesan).
Ordering a variety of tapas for your group to share allows you to taste a number of innovative menu items without the commitment of a whole meal. Not to mention, it makes for a fun experience to share with friends and family.
The Paella
The Paella at Rustico is a standout menu item and one of the only places in Oak Park to have the traditional Spanish dish. This classic dish originates from Valencia but has made its way across Spain as one of the country’s most renowned dishes. Made and served in a large, shallow pan, it is a natural centerpiece for gathering and highlights the Spanish tradition of communal dining.
Rustico’s menu offers three mouthwatering Paellas: seafood, chicken, and their signature Rustico, which combines their seafood with chicken and pork. Each dish combines baked rice with sofrito, tomato purée, and an assortment of vegetables, all simmered together. Saffron is the primary spice that gives paella its signature golden color and aroma. Traditionally, paella is eaten directly from the pan, making it the perfect main dish to share after several tapas.
The Pizza
One of the highlights of Rustico’s ambiance is the large wood-burning oven, which serves as both a beautiful focal point for diners and functions to make the most delicious wood-burning pizzas. Each pizza features a thin, crispy crust that provides a satisfying crunch while holding up well to generous toppings.
The tomato sauce is made from fresh, ripe tomatoes, offering a vibrant and tangy base. Options range from classic choices like the Marguerita and four cheese to innovative Spanish fusion like their jamon iberico, which features imported Spanish ham. A must-try is their Ortolana, which includes a base of roasted garlic pesto topped with goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, jalapeno artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and scallions.
The Pasta
Rustico’s menu offers over a dozen homemade pasta dishes that highlight their commitment to quality. Each dish is made fresh, featuring delicious sauces and perfectly cooked noodles. Their short-rib gnocchi is a crowd favorite. Seafood fans cannot go wrong with their fettuccine Frutti di mare or the Costa mare- spaghetti served with shrimp and salmon.
Other must-try items include the ravioli con salmon, featuring smoked salmon stuffed pasta, asparagus, tomatoes, garlic, and basil, or the classic penne salsiccia made with penne pasta, Italian sausage, sweet peas, Parmesan, tomato cream sauce, and chili flakes.
The Drink Menu
Rustico’s bar offers a unique view of the kitchen, where you can sit with a cocktail and watch the chefs at work. True to their Spanish and Italian cuisine, they offer an extensive wine list, but Rustico just may be one of the best places in Oak Park to get an innovative craft cocktail.
Their mixologist, Allan, is one of the industry’s best-kept secrets. With over a decade of experience, he is renowned for crafting and creating new cocktails. Be sure to try the Alexander…IYKYK.
The Desserts
At Rustico, the indulgence extends well beyond the main dishes to their decadent desserts. One must-try is the Spanish tiramisu, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, offering a unique flavor profile that combines the rich, creamy layers of traditional tiramisu with a hint of Spanish flair.
Another crowd favorite is the fig bread pudding, a comforting dessert that features the sweet, earthy flavors of figs melded into a luscious bread pudding. These desserts not only provide a perfect ending to your meal but also highlight the innovative culinary philosophy that makes Rustico a standout dining destination in Oak Park.
The Ambiance
The industrial chic interiors with exposed brick walls and warm lighting provide the perfect setting to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The wrap-around bar in the center offers additional seating that is perfect for solo diners or couples who want to be amidst the action. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide ample natural light with a view of the street.
Rustico also showcases one of the most charming patios in Oak Park. When you sit down, you might feel like you've been transported to a Spanish Plaza. Located right on Oak Park Ave, the patio is adorned with twinkling string lights draped from the trees and is the perfect place to people watch.
The Service
The staff at Rustico is praised for being friendly and knowledgeable. They do a wonderful job of balancing attentiveness with a respectful sense of space, so you never feel rushed but also never left waiting too long. Plus, Chef Padilla, known for being hands-on at the restaurant, may be seen stopping at tables and welcoming patrons.
Bonus Points:
Takeout Pros
Takeout is available and delivery is offered through 3rd party delivery partners.
Private Events
Rustico has two private rooms as well as a semi-private area. For groups with 12+ you’re also able to book a large table or groups of tables. Fill out the contact form on their events tab for more info.
Meet Us at Rustico in Oak Park
When in the Oak Park area, Rustico is a must-try. Combining the best of Italy and Spain, this Mediterranean fusion restaurant offers a memorable night out. Whether you’re craving the feeling of seafood paella and a cocktail on a Spanish plaza during summer or want to be cozied up next to a fire with a hearty pasta dish and a glass of wine in the winter, Rustico has you covered in every season.
