If you’ve ever explored West Seattle’s Alki Beach, you may have rounded the far corner, turned onto Beach Drive, and promptly felt like you were in another world (or at least in a quiet coastal village). Between the magnificent views of Elliott Bay, the charming houses decked out in beachy decor, and the occasional palm trees, visiting that neighborhood is a bit disorienting in the best way.

That’s where you’ll find La Rustica, a hidden gem with some of the best Italian food on the planet (or at least outside of Italy). This secluded restaurant is a true local treasure.

La Rustica is located 4100 Beach Drive SW, in a quiet waterfront West Seattle neighborhood.
La Rustica Restaurant / Facebook
This waterfront bistro has been proudly serving the community since 1996.
La Rustica is owned and operated by Janie and chef Giulio Pellegrini, who have been married for 40 years and working side by side for just as long.
Greg Briggs / Google
Giulio is originally from Patrica, Italy. He met Janie when he emigrated to Michigan in 1965. And we're quite glad that he and Janie made it to Washington.
The dining room truly feels like a little Italian bistro, and the water views make the experience even better.
Jack Petty / Google
As lovely as the chandeliers and candles are, nothing compares to the natural light that illuminates this place just before sunset.
Of course, while an elegant ambiance is nice, it's the food that keeps people coming back for more... and the menu here doesn't disappoint.
Isaac Damiani / Google
Chef Giulio uses the best quality ingredients to cook his authentic Italian dishes.

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True Italian food is known for being fresh, flavorful, and fairly simple. When the food is fresh, it doesn't require much extra preparation.
Isaac Damiani / Google
From the antipasti and insalata to the decadent dessert, each course here seems better than the last.
Pizza and pasta dominate the menu here, and each pasta dish comes with a salad and fresh focaccia bread.
Stephen Mardin / Google
If you're in the mood for something hearty, the entrees like Polenta con Maiale (braised baby back ribs in a red wine tomato sauce) and Medallions of Beef (Prime Montana filet mignon, capers, white wine, lemon, and garlic) are out of this world.
You will be full after your main course. Please order dessert anyway.
La Rustica Restaurant / Facebook
Janie is a very talented baker, and there's always room for Tiramisu.
If you need to take a walk to work off your meal, you'll conveniently be steps away from a rocky beach.
Mary Devino / Google
This restaurant could not be in a more ideal location.
As with all Washington restaurants, La Rustica has faced unprecedented challenges over the last year, but the team has adapted well.
La Rustica Restaurant / Facebook
Their beautiful outdoor dining area is now covered and heated for on-site dining, and their menu is always available for takeout. Pizza by the beach, anyone?

La Rustica is currently open for dinner from Tuesday – Sunday beginning at 5 p.m. Check out their mouthwatering menu here.

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4100 Beach Dr SW, Seattle, WA 98116, USA