Rustico Restaurant & Bar

I think this has new ownership or something. First visit since covid and everything has changed. Used to be my fave gf pizza, but now it’s so-so. The fries are marked gf but are cooked in a shared frier. Makes me question the rest of the menu. I won’t be going back. Too many other better gf options in Alexandria.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Not very

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Some

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Average

The “GF” beer carried here is actually “gluten reduced,” not gluten free. So be aware before ordering!! The food (some of it marked GF) is very tasty.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Somewhat

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Most/All

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

Delicious brunch. Get the potatoes. So good!

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Some

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

I live nearby and frequently go to Rustico. They have GF beer, knowledgable staff and delicious food. I am very sensitive to CC and have never had a problem or reaction at Rustico. The chickpea crust pizza is good hot, but a little dry.

Celiac friendly?

Yes

Our server was very knowledgeable about the GF options. The carrot hummus is great!!! I wish I like the chickpea pizza crust more, but it's too heavy. Toppings are good. They have several GF beers to choose from.

Love Rustico! The risotto tots are incredible, and the vodka pizza has quickly become a fan favorite. Can’t recommend enough!

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Very

Safety Feature Ratings

• Staff is knowledgeable and can answer questions

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Some

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

Other Characteristics

• Good for dinner
• Good for takeout

Gluten free items were helpfully marked on the menu. I had the risotto tots and a white pizza on the gluten free crust. The crust is chickpea, which has a distinct flavor, but I liked it. They labeled their ciders and gf beer on the menu as well.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Somewhat

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Most/All

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

The food and service at Rustico were terrible. 90% of the GF options marked on the menu are NOT actually GF. Everything in the “shareable” section is cooked in a shared fryer with gluten food. The only safe thing to eat is salad. They also serve their entrees on reusable wooden block plates (which absorb gluten even when cleaned). They brought out potatoes on a ceramic plate which they told me they had the chef pan cook, but they definitely just brought out fried ones (which I could clearly see on arrival so I didn’t touch them). If you have celiac disease DO NOT eat here. I ended up getting sick from the breakfast entree I ordered (eggs Benedict on a gluten free roll). I will never go back here or recommend it to anyone I know with an allergy.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Not at all

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Not Much

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Poor

Definitely celiac friendly. I have celiac and ate the chickpea crust pizza with no issues. We ordered the mushroom and goat cheese pizza which was amazing! Very flavorful! It’s so rare to find gourmet gluten free pizza.

Celiac friendly?

Yes

Chickpea pizza is great. Delicious and no reaction! Staff is very knowledgeable

Celiac friendly?

Yes