Rustico Italian Kitchen

Joseph Vaughan

I believe Chef Mike abandoned this place. I ordered muscles, and they were drenched in buffalo sauce with extra Tabasco. They were inedible. The place is not up to my expectations for cleanliness. Last time, I had store bought pasta served as a special, which was nothing notable. I think the days of fresh pasta are behind us. Before that meal, I had real pasta, but they had drenched it in lemon juice and undercooked. I can only believe the genius Chef Mike abandoned this location. We won't return to this location, and I advise you not to go. I am deeply depressed that I spent money on an inedible meal at a once great restaurant. follow up: The waiter asked about the muscles, and I said that it was hard to eat because they were drowning in buffalo sauce. Really, muscles drowning Buffalo sauce? He asked if I wanted to give feedback to the chef, and I said yes. Who knows what became of the feedback? I generally won't ask for a manager for what the manager should already be aware of; I simply won't go back.

Tim M

Attended the 505 Kitchen Cook-off. Great night and vibe. Really cool to be able to go back into the kitchen and see the chef and bartenders do their magic up close. Looking forward to returning and sampling their menu.

Nathan Miller

An excellent replacement and step up from The Barley Room. They've had a little growing pains coming out of COVID, so I won't fault the issues with my first experience there, because now they're a well-oiled machine. Some of the best Italian I've ever had. And the staff are great. Chum it up with them, they'll treat you well. Definitely going back

McKenzie Johnson

When I found out the Barley Room closed, I was really bummed. It had become a go-to for when I couldn’t decide what to eat. However, I’m so glad something good has filled this spot! The best place in Albuquerque for pasta, in my opinion. The pasta is made is house (as well as the mozzarella, if I recall correctly) and the pork belly carbonara is delicious. The fried calamari is probably the best I’ve had. Not only is the food great, but the service has been excellent every time I’ve been and the cocktails and great.