Since the closure of Yankee Pier in Larkspur in 2014, 286 Magnolia Ave. has seen various Italian restaurants come and go. The latest entrant, Tavola Rustica, opened just after the departure of Locanda Marin, which was fondly remembered for its delicious pinsas.
To avoid confusion between The Rustic and the long-standing Rustic Bakery nearby, the restaurant will soon be renamed Tavola Rustica. Though it has seen a fresh coat of paint and a new reception area, the interior retains much of its predecessor’s charm, offering a spacious dining area with hardwood tables and an open kitchen layout.
Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly and seated in a well-lit dining room that opens onto a cozy patio. The menu featured an array of Mediterranean-inspired dishes. We started our meal with house-made focaccia and an interesting selection of wines, which included the 2022 Zuani “Vigne” Collio Bianco and the 2023 Les Athletes du Vin Pineau d’Aunis.
As the evening progressed, the noise level rose, common in bustling restaurants. For those sensitive to noise, the patio offers a quieter atmosphere.
Our first dish was the Moules Frites ($17), which, while enjoyable, felt standard; the accompanying aioli could use more garlic to elevate it. For pasta, we opted for the Campanelle Bolognese ($23), a fantastic choice. The ruffled pasta excelled in holding the rich sauce, which my dining companion and I found to rival that of any authentic Bolognese we experienced in Bologna.
The main courses offered a variety of options, and I tried the Crispy Fried Chicken ($27), served alongside roasted delicata squash, grapes, and ranch aioli. Although tasty, the chicken’s crust overpowered the juicy meat beneath.
However, the star of the evening was the Lamb Shank ($32), braised to perfection and melting off the bone. Accompanied by creamy potato puree and sautéed rainbow chard mixed with carrots, it was a dish not to be missed.
To conclude our culinary journey, we opted for the Limoncello Cake ($10), which delivered a satisfying tang.
Tavola Rustica has warmly established itself in the Larkspur dining scene, promising a delightful Mediterranean experience paired with a commendable wine list.
Tavola Rustica
Address: 286 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur
Phone: 415-891-3096
Website: therustic.com
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Noise level: Fairly loud when full
Liquor selection: Wine and beer
Vegetarian dishes: Yes
Vegan dishes: Yes
Gluten-free selections: On request
Dog friendly: Allowed on patio
Reservations: Resy
Parking: Street and free lot
Hours: 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Mon-Thu), 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Fri-Sat), 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Sun); brunch from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Prices: $10 to $36
Summary: Casual restaurant with a full-flavored Mediterranean menu and an intriguing wine list.