Rustico Restaurant & Bar

Rustico Restaurant & Bar Restaurant Review:

Hot and happening, Rustico is Alexandria’s answer to a snappy downtown bistro. Its wacky murals, overhead industrial pipes, brick walls, and nonexistent noise-control all add to the sense of frantic party time. Lunches are jam-packed, and if you come without reservations and can grab a seat, you’d be well served to think pizza first---since that’s the house signature dish---but next take a good, long look at the sandwiches and soups. While the clam chowder is tomato-y with few clams, the kitchen makes up for it with a grilled cheese and Southern ham sandwich on a huge, flavorful roll that’s worth walking ten miles for. If you seek heartier fare, consider the old-fashioned chicken potpie, the fish of the day, or the Maine lobster mac ‘n’ cheese. The ideal dessert is the seasonal fruit pizza, but be forewarned: it’s not always available.