The beloved restaurant in Calpe, Alicante, is reopening with a new look and a fresh menu. With an open gas oven, Rusticana is the only restaurant in town with this feature, and it makes ‘Rusticana’ a place where locals and tourists alike can be transported to Italy for a little while.

The oven creates a distinct atmosphere where the pizzas al forno napoletano take the lead and the artisan pastas shine as well. With the oven’s dome, which reaches 400 degrees, the pizzas are able to cook in only two minutes. But the oven is not the only highlight; there are several visible areas where clients can observe the team as they create their pizzas at the dough-making area, the fermentation area, and the stovetops.

While Rusticana is pulling out all the stops for their reopening, they are still holding back certain tricks and menu items to be brought out in later seasons. Owners Gonzalo Mariconde, Marisa De Cesaris, Christian Idda and Yamila De Cesaris wanted to show that Rusticana is not only a summer establishment, but also a place to enjoy genuine Italian fare all year round.

Their current menu features a four-cheese pizza which is topped with tomato, mozzarella, gorgonzola, goat cheese, and parmesan. Also on the menu is an al dente oxtail ravioli. To finish off each meal is a tiramisu made by owner Yamila De Cesaris.

Each month, Rusticana will have a new specialty pizza to keep things fresh. This month, the Boscaiola is the star of the show. Made with tomato, mozzarella, caramelized onion, mushrooms, and sausage, this pizza is the perfect summer slice.

Located a short walk from the beach and with views of the town hall, Rusticana is not to be missed. Visit them at Carrer Pintor Sorolla 5, Calpe 03710, or see their LinkTree here.

Report by Fiona Pacious

Article copyright 24/7 Valencia