The next time the craving for Italian food strikes, think Montrose! The Montrose Shopping Park is now home to five wonderful Italian restaurants. Yes, Montrose is quickly earning the reputation of the place to go when it’s time for a nice lunch or dinner out. There is such variety here!

This week we would like to introduce you to our newest Italian restaurant Cucina Rustica (2276 Honolulu Ave.). This fine restaurant was many months in the making. Now that it has been open and running, we can say it was worth waiting for. The ambiance is modern, clean, comforting and pleasing to the eye. There is a full bar like the kind you see in bistro artwork. Then there’s the carving of Italy among the brickwork.

Now let’s talk food. Insider tip: I am a “bread nut” and the bread here is among the best I have ever eaten anywhere! I don’t say this lightly. The menu has a lot to offer, too. Recently I had “Gamberoni Ala Vodka,” delicious shrimp in a pink vodka sauce with whole wheat fusilli, $18. The menu has lots to offer!

Other great Italian restaurants here are Pasta Preziosa, DaFranco, Portabello’s, & Al’s Italian Deli. More on these another day.

In the meantime, give Cucina Rustica a try and let us know what you think!

Mary Dawson owns Revelation Tops and serves on the MSPA board of directors.