Came here for lunch. Ordered a sandwich that had peppers on it. I figured a place like this would have fresh peppers but I was wrong. They use pickled peppers from a jar. I do not like the taste of pickled peppers so I found the sandwich not to my liking. Nothing on the menu, which contains fresh ingredients, lets on that the peppers are not. This was a big let down for me. If you don't like picked peppers, do not chose an item that contains peppers. read more

We popped in this shop directly off the plane with luggage in tow. Food was great, lots of options to choose from. Great staff, who were very pleasant and helpful. Great quick bite spot. read more

Such good food! The pizza is super thin and fresh, and we loved the meatball sub and caprese salad. Will definitely be regulars here!

Just started working in Boston and stumbled upon this place. The girl at the counter during lunch is just the sweetest and welcoming and the cook is always just as pleasant! Found my new work week lunch read more

I like this restaurant! Small, very informal, but the food is very good the atmosphere relaxed. I've been twice and have to go back. It is the first traditional Italian café (not over hyped or over priced) I have found in Boston. read more

Wonderful food, great service, good prices. I tend to get a half sandwich, half soup. I have never been disappointed. I highly recommend the pollo blanco sandwich and the Italian wedding soup. Only downside is the space is small. Just a few tables, so it's better for pickup. read more

Rustico's owner Kiki is the type of person that you just want to see do well. I moved to Boston not too long ago and she gave me the warmest welcome. The sandwiches, salads, pasta and pizza are ALL delicious and fresh. You can taste the passion in the food, and after standing inside for just a few seconds, you'll come to appreciate the fast service and how hard Kiki and her team bust their butts. New lunch spot every day, can't recommend Rustico enough! read more

Amazing food but unfortunately they need to hire way more people. You need to call about 45 min ahead of time and even then you'll wait 30 min. It's a shame because it's amazing food but they need to hire someone. I saw many people today walk away and give up on even their call-ins. Hope they don't go under because the food is amazing when it comes. read more

This place is right next to where I work and I love to come here. They have great subs especially the ones with pesto on them. Really fresh and delicious. It is always packed so make sure that you call in advance unless you want to wait for ~20 minutes. The best thing you can get here though is the coffee. Every morning I stop in here to get an iced coffee. Fantastic! I can't tell you how much better the coffee is than dunkin donuts or even starbucks. The ice coffee is a must buy, especially if need a kick in the morning like I do. read more

The four of us were looking for a quick bite before a Celtics game. All of the bars were packed, so we walked further, and found this little gem. The Italian dishes were very fresh, and the staff couldn't have been more friendly (from detailed descriptions of the food, quick service sine we were in a hurry, and even free samples of their home made cookies). We actually went back there on the following sunday evening since my wife wanted to try the gnocchi this time. Unfortunately we learned that they were closed (they close at 4pm), which is the one big down-side. Extend your hours Didi! read more

I have to repeat the sentiments of steph d's review that Osteria under new management is just not the same. I've been getting the caprese salad here for years and it's always been very good. Under new management there is much less mozzarella, non-existent basil, and inferior olive oil (I wouldn't be surprised if it's canola oil). The new place is okay, but to people who are used to Carmine and his way of doing things, it's a big step down. I haven't tried any of the other dishes under the new management, so can't judge how quality might have changed. Based on my salad experience, I don't think I'll bother trying. read more

Osteria Rustico does brisk take out business but that doesn't take away from those wanting table service. This is the perfect place to go when you've tired of the area pubs but you don't have enough time to go to Rabia's or other places near Salem & Hanover St. The gnocchi is my standby, though the lobster ravioli, caprese salad or other lunch specials are on my rotating list of dishes to order. Penne Boscaiola, with prosciutto and porcini mushrooms in a cream sauce, was on such lunch special that should be a regular. I've never tried their subs or take home pasta sauces. This place is super casual- canned and bottled drinks come from the fridge near the bathroom. I can easily say that I've never been unhappy with a meal here. read more

Don't skip out on the best homemade Italian staples you can get this side of the greenway. If you're looking for amazing tasting authentic Italian lunch fare that won't also break your budget, you've found the right place. Luckily I work across the street but I'd go really far out of my way for just a taste of the eggplant or chicken parm. Kiki is great and takes excellent care of everyone who steps foot inside. She's a treasure and the area is lucky to have someone like her. Definitely stop on in if you're in the area for lunch or on your way to the Garden but don't forget a homemade cookie to go with your meal. They're delicious. read more

Osteria Rustico is delicious! My co-worker brought me there earlier this week and I'm so happy that I no longer feel limited to Subway or Au Bon Pain for lunch. I got a really yummy sandwich with grilled zucchinis and mozzarella in it and it was surprisingly well priced too. The only reasons I'd hesitate to give this place five stars: the guy who worked there was a little too curt for my liking, he made a big stink when my friend and I decided to eat-in at the last minute after noticing a table that had just opened up, they close before dinner time, and they were out of prosciutto. Mangiamo! read more

I will definitely be back! Such a cute, quick little cafe. Only down side is it isn't around the corner from my job!!! The food was spectacular! Kiki (one of the owners) was super friendly and had a great personality. I rarely venture over toward Canal Street and had it not been for a gift certificate, I'm not sure I would've chosen to go to Cafe Rustico. I am very glad I did however. All of the prices were extremely reasonable especially for the amount of food my boyfriend and I got. The side of homemade meatballs were wonderful and smotohered with lots of yummy homemade sauce. The eggplant Parmesean dinner was tasty- thinly sliced eggplant piled up high atop pasta, also loaded with the homemade sauce. Another entree we chose was the cheese ravioli. Homemade ravioli goodness covered once again with the sauce, but a nice chunky, full meat sauce. For dessert we shared a homemade chocolate chip cookie and each got a mini cannoli. The chocolate chip cookie was served warmed up- it was thing, light, soft, and a little chewy but PACKED with chocolate chips. Another perk of dining in and not taking food to go was that Kiki and her team baked the cannoli shells fresh!!! She pulled the shells out of the oven, immediately filled them and brought them over. They were "finger lickin' good". Can't wait to go back! read more

The staff here is always very friendly no matter how busy it gets. I come here early mornings sometimes for the B-Boy breakfast sandwich which is huge, tasty and super filling. I've only come here for lunch once or twice. Lobster ravioli was pretty good.Great pink sauce. read more

My visit to Rustico was one of the times Yelp reviewers failed me. The food was okay. While the bread for my sandwich was fresh and well toasted, the other ingredients (meat, cheese, and vegetables) were void of flavor. I would expect a pink flavorless tomato in Boston during a mid-winter visit, but it's prime tomato season in New England. The peppers were from a jar. My partner ordered pasta with meatballs. The portion was substantial, but the flavor lacking. I do need to add that the counter staff was friendly and the service swift. read more

I am so happy I stopped in here today instead of Mulligans. The staff is beyond friendly (not to mention the guy who made my sandwich was handsome!) and my sandwich is DELICIOUS. I've declared that my new weekly eat-out place has changed from Mulligans to Cafe Rustico. I got a Chicken allo Pesto without the tomatoes... amazing. Can't wait to try something else. And apparently this place is under new management, thank Jesus. The woman (owner) who greeted me at the door was sweet, informative and helpful. Nice to see a woman running a cafe! Excited now I won't have to cross over to the North End to get some decent Italian for lunch! read more

This unassuming little spot has the best homemade gnocchi and pomodoro sauce EVER. The owner makes the sauce from fresh tomatoes every day. Wonderful service greeting happy locals. Best meal you can get near North Station/TD Garden. And when you think it can't possibly get any better, you get the bill. Would easily pay double the price charged. If I lived next door I would weigh 300 pounds. Not fancy, exceptional food. Go now. read more

Rusty's Clubhouse has the best sandos in town. Well suited for unwinding after a hard morning at work with the boys. The bread is phenomenal and the Pollo Ragazzi is out of bounds! I like to wash it down with one of those fancy pants ice tea lemonades. It's only a matter of time before Guy Fieri comes barreling down Canal Street in the '67. This joint's got that old time Italian feel and a rockin' new menu with a little something for everyone. Meetballs? Fugetaboutit. read more

If you want a casual and DELICIOUS meal, this is your spot! We got a "cup" of Italian Wedding Soup, Antipasto Salad, Lobster Ravioli and Fettuccine With Meatballs. Servings were quite generous and we were all very happy with our meals. Sauces made me want to lick the plate! read more

When I worked at 54 Canal St. this restaurant was a saving grace for a lunch spot. The caprese is fabulous- they best I've had in the city (I honestly haven't tried that many) I could eat it for the rest of my life- for real. The caeser salads are delicous and the chicken perfect- but unless you like your salad loaded with dressing- make sure to request light on the dressing because they load it up hardcore. The ravioli with tomoato cream sauce was my treat when I didn't care about fat, calories, carbs, etc. and honestly everything is great- they have delicious fresh sandwhiches and crispy bread. The staff is great. We got to be friends with the guy behind the counter (i haven't been back in 8 months since I left that job so I can't remember his name) and he brought us bottles of wine to try cause we would chat so much. Overall- i love this place. If you are in the area around lunch time definitely check it out its perfect. If you work in the area and haven't been yet- GO you'll be hooked. unfortunately it closes after the work day- but make the trek for lunch its worth it. read more

Ravioli with home made meat sauce, arachinis, Italian wedding soup and garlic bread too !! I have died and gone to heaven!! Kiki's cooking is outta this world !! Thanks for always spoiling me every time I am there !!! Love this place ! read more

Since Mulligan's closed, I felt that the North Station area was really lacking good lunch food... until I discovered this place! I usually get the salad special w/ chicken - it is very fresh, and it is quite a large portion! They also have killer pasta dishes, but my second lunchtime favourite is their meatball sub with homemade sauce & provolone cheese. Sometimes the simplest things are the best, especially when they are made right! :) This place is very small with only about 5 tables, so unless you are getting take-out, get there before the rush to enjoy an almost European experience! :D read more

So far I've only had the eggplant parm side (a few times), but I have to say, it's really incredibly tasty, and at a great price to boot. I know this is weird, but I've ordered eggplant parm at other places before sans tomato sauce (which was actually really good), and the first time I went to Cafe Rustico I almost asked them to hold the sauce as well... I'm glad I didn't because I really like their sauce. The best part is the eggplant though, so yummy, fried goodness. And did I mention their sides are cheap? I'm thinking I'll try one of their veggie sandwiches sometime soon, in the meantime I'm doing everything I can not to order the eggplant parm twice a week. read more

Had the Rucola. Great sandwich with freshly grilled chicken. Staff also very friendly.

My husband and I love this cafe! We stumbled upon it on the way to the Celtics game a couple of weeks ago. We had a great meal went to the game and the Celtics won--so last night we stopped again in the Cafe. Another great meal and the Celtics won by 10! This is a winning combination! We can attest to the 5 stars on the following items: Sausage & Meatballs w Sauce, Chicken Pesto, Italian Wedding soup and the Chicken Penne Dish with Broccoli and Tomatoes. Wonderful fresh ingredients-great service and prices! read more

I found Cafe Rustico while looking for a place to kill some time waiting for a train. I got there a couple of minutes before closing and they were so friendly and welcoming. This tiny gem has great cheese ravioli, salads, and coffee, and I'm sure sandwiches, but best of all, they make you feel at home. The waitress was accomodating in every way while they were closing down and never made me feel rushed. Solid italian comfort food, great prices, friendly owner and wait staff. A bit small but cozy, was perfect when I needed a good meal and a place to hang. As a customer I felt I was treated as priority and why they are in business in the first place, great food a plus. Leo P. read more

This is my favorite restaurant. I work nearby and I get off the train and grab breakfast there before heading to work. KiKi is there every morning and she is really personable. I have had lunch there many times. The eggplant parm is to die for...I am very fussy about eggplant (being Italian and cooking it myself). Most restaurants don't make it well. Cafe Rustico's makes it great! The Lobster Raviolis are amazing as well. It's a must! read more

Second try at this establishment : I'm sure they mean well but I ordered a hot sandwich Luca Brazzi. Sat down and waited during busy lunch hour. Ice cold. Seriously ? I know your busy but isn't that why your in business to make money ? And if your known for quality then you should prepare for busy. Ten bucks and the cheese isn't melted and chicken was cold So disappointed read more

I came here for lunch and got a salad with cold cut meats/cheeses and the garlic cheesey bread. They gave a lot of meat on that salad; so much that I couldn't finish it. The garlic cheesey bread never fails. I will probably always come here for this bread every time I come back to Boston. (Really close to the North Station T Station) read more

I have to knock off a star because lately I feel like they've been skimping on stuff in their salads. Why, oh WHY does my salad special literally come with only 2 slices of cucumber? And 2 slices of tomato? Where are the INGREDIENTS?? Still a fan though, the staff is lovely and the sandwiches are delish, but stop cheating me! read more

I've worked in the Bulfinch Triangle for the past 9 years and I can say with confidence that Cafe Rustico is hands down the best lunch option in the immediate area. I love the casalinga salad. Always feel like the veggies are fresh. If I want something heartier, I love the pollo or the chicken parm. The cookie is a relatively new addition, which is fantastic. I have to say though, I used to think the gnocchi was the best around. I had it today, and something was a little different about it. Still love the sauce but just wasn't as good as it used to be. Anyway, I'd probably give this place 4 1/2 stars. Such great value for the quality of food. read more

Place is great! B BOY breakfast special is amazing! Wasn't expecting much walking in but I'll definitely visit here every time I come to visit boston! Must go! read more

Fantastic place. Keep coming to try different menu items, and damn am I never let down. Italians, Rustico, and the Lobster ravioli are my favorite. Best part, every menu item is at a generous price read more

Lobster ravioli and gnocchi were excellent and homemade. Cookies were delicious and homade too!

Hands-down the best iced coffee you can find in the area. I don't know what the medical definition of addiction is, but I think my relationship with the coffee at Cafe Rustico might qualify. Kiki (the owner) is always super efficient and extremely warm and welcoming. This is a must-go for anyone planning on attending a game/show at the garden, commuting to north station, or anyone who just happens to find themselves in the area and are in need of a quality sandwich, salad, or coffee. read more

First Kiki Donna and Justin are amazing! They make having a meal here feel like home. This is a place where they know your name and what you like to eat. Which is anything because everything's delicious! there muffins and homefries are to die for! Yumtastic read more

Love this place! Only downfall is that they're not open during the weekends! I usually get the 1/2 salad 1/2 sandwich combo, but just their salad alone is amazing. I go there just for the Aunty's Favorite salad sometimes. It is to die for! Very cozy, Italian home cooked meals. read more

I am not really sure when Kiki took over, but she does great work. My only compliant is that she doesn't offer more soups, more frequently. The sauce is great, soup is great, salads are very good, the sandwiches (chicken pesto, lucca brasi, sausage parm, italian, are great) and the pasta is vastly under rated. If she has pizza or arancini , just get it... read more