Fall is finally here and I’m screaming Good-bye SUMMER – thank God you’re leaving (a tad dramatic, I know). Fall is one of my favorite seasons – it’s time once again for Pumpkin Spice Lattes, Sexi boots, Cute outerwear, and tons of Restaurant visits.
After being in bed for the past two weeks with the flu today I was excited to get out – of course, Brooklyn offers so many options I just couldn’t decide where or what I wanted to eat. I finally decided on an oldie but goodie…Rustic Tavern – it’s one of my favorite places to go chill and watch the game; grab a delish bite and indulge in a fab cocktail or a glass of wine or two :).
Founded in 2008 by Brooklynite Frantz Metellus, Rustic Tavern is a neighborhood spot located on a deserted strip on Dekalb Avenue in the Bed-Stuy/Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn. The shabby chic decor with mismatch furnishings, exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and fireplace gives the space a nice chill – rustic – good Vybz feeling. It’s intimate enough for a quiet date night; awesome for great conv and lots of laughter, girls night out, and the perfect spot to grab a cold brew and watch a game.
I’ve been a patron of Rustik Tavern for about three years and my experience has ranged from fair to very good but not entirely disappointing. There have been the occasional long waits between courses, moments of slow service, and a smugged glass or two. The staff is very friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu.
Although the owner has a Caribbean background the menu is very inclusive and not tied to any particular cuisine – there is something for everyone. The menu features entrées named after local Streets in Brooklyn; you can munch on Willoughby Wings, which are absolutely flavorful ($6), or a bowl of Clinton Hill Chili to warm you up ($7), why not have the Clermont Calamari, which I love ($12), or how about a Classon’s Classic salad ($8) among others.
My faves are the Salmon burger which is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G ($12), the sweet potato fries ($5), the braised kale ($5), Roasted beets and kale salad ($9), and BBQ ribs ($12). Oh and the “Rustik Fried Cheesecake” absolutely #delicious. Last night there was an additional menu for Black-Owned Restaurant offering potato croquettes which were deliciously flavorful (hope it stays on the menu) and other #yummie bites.
Mr. Metellus saw a need in the neighborhood and held a vision to create a neighborhood Tavern – a local spot where one can go for delicious comfort food, great conversations, or just a drink. A place where everyone feels at home. I believe he has created this vision many many times over, Rustic is “That Place” – a super cozy spot where the owner takes time to greet his patrons whenever he’s around.
It’s a place you’ll definitely want to stop by to grab a drink, order a bite, enjoy live Jazz on every first Tuesday of the month, get a belly full of laughter on Comedy Night every second Thursday of the month or stop by any night of your choosing. I know the weather is changing but there’s still time to enjoy the attractive outdoor patio which is perfect for a Brunch date.
In Summary:
Food: Good to very good. Rustic Tavern offers a menu that appeals to the diversity of the neighborhood and beyond.
Ambiance: Fair to good. The Shabby Chic decor with mismatched furnishings gives Rustic Tavern character. The space definitely gives that comfy feeling where you’ll wanna hang out for a while.
Service: Fair to Good. The staff is welcoming, attentive, and familiar with the menu. Waits between courses, however, can be a drag and can sometimes distract someone from truly enjoying the experience.
Best Bets: Quincy Quesadilla ($9); the Grand Butcherboy Burger ($12); Sanford Salmon ($16); Pulaski Pasta ($11); Kent Chicken Sandwich($11), Bedford Brownie, delicious but it can get hard really fast so dig in as soon as it gets to you ($6), Mussels ($13), shrimp bucket ($15), Clermont Calamari ($12), of course, the Salmon Burger ($12) and don’t forget the Rustik’s fried cheesecake ($7)
Photos and Menu Details Via Rustic Tavern
Location:
471 Dekalb Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11205
(b/t Franklin & Kent Avenues)
Contact:
Phone: 347-406-9700
Email: Info@RusticTavern.com
Hours:
Monday – Wednesday & Sundays 11 AM – 12 AM
Thursday 11 AM – 1 AM
Friday – Saturday 11AM – 2AM
XXOO
Nat