From the moment you enter the Big Brass doors, La Rustica feels a bit like a holiday in southern Italy. The cuisine is authentic Italian with a distinct Australian influence. The chef and his family emigrated from the stunning Calabrian coastline of Mare Ionico, bringing with them the regions culinary secrets. A family run business since 1990, you will always see Maria & Katrina in the bar, Peter at the coffee machine, Tony making the pizzas and Peppe in the kitchen. La Rustica has been indulging Canberra's taste buds for the last 15 years with a huge selection of reliably good Italian dishes including pasta, home-made gnocchi & ravioli, veal, chicken, beef, seafood and of course pizzas.

La Rustica's casual environment makes it a great family restaurant, with the combination of popular and regional dishes ensuring there's always something for everyone. La Rustica's wine list is comprehensive, offering the best Australian and imported wines from New Zealand and Italy. Their wines are carefully selected to complement your dining experience, whether it be lunch or dinner.