Our Story
Tavola Rustica began as a passion project between a group of food-loving friends who shared a love for great meals, fine drinks, and the joy of bringing people together. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a dream — opening a CAL-Italian restaurant where guests could enjoy exceptional food in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Our first location in lovely San Francisco became the heart of our journey, where we’ve been proudly serving the community for years.
Now, we’re thrilled to expand to Larkspur, California, bringing our same heartfelt commitment to quality, flavor, and community. At Tavola Rustica, we’ve crafted a space where you can experience the warmth of traditional Italian cooking, combined with a fresh, farm-to-table approach. Our dishes celebrate the best local ingredients, paired with time-honored family recipes passed down through generations. Each plate is a labor of love, made to make you feel like family.
Adding to the experience is our owner, an award-winning sommelier, who brings his expert touch to our carefully curated wine list. With a passion for small-batch wines, he has hand-selected exceptional bottles that perfectly complement our menu, elevating every meal. Whether you're enjoying a relaxed brunch or a special evening out, our wine list is sure to surprise and delight, offering unique pours that pair perfectly with our food.
From seasonal ingredients to handpicked wines, Tavola Rustica is about more than just a meal — it's an experience. Whether you're here for a cozy dinner with loved ones or a lively celebration, we invite you to savor the flavors, the warmth, and the passion that go into every dish and every glass. We can't wait to welcome you to our new location in Larkspur, while continuing to serve the San Francisco community that started it all!
Zoti
Partner
Meet Ali Turap, known fondly as Zoti, a multifaceted professional serving as the Partner, General Manager, and Wine Director at The Rustic.
Born in Istanbul, Turkey in 1985 and raised in an Albanian household, Zoti's diverse cultural background has profoundly influenced his journey in the culinary world.
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Armed with a BA in Economics, Zoti initially ventured into the film industry as a sound technician before embarking on a transformative move to California.
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The pivotal shift towards the Front of the House occurred in the summer of 2013, as Zoti delved into the art of service at Desco Oakland, a new Northern Italian restaurant. Imbued with a passion for wine studies, he pursued and achieved certification as a Sommelier through The Court of Master Sommeliers.
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In September 2015, Zoti's aspirations found a haven at Chez Panisse in Berkeley. His roots in a family connected to farming, fresh produce, and rustic fare aligned seamlessly with the ethos of this esteemed establishment. Beginning as a bartender, Zoti's dedication and proficiency led to his ascent through various roles, culminating in a managerial position after two years of unwavering commitment.With an enriching tenure of nearly eight years at Chez Panisse, Zoti embarked on a new chapter by realizing his dream – opening The Rustic.
His vision for The Rustic is a testament to warmth, congeniality, and fresh flavors, aiming to be the quintessential neighborhood spot where patrons eagerly return. Zoti's personalized touch ensures that each guest feels like family, with a commitment to remembering names and making everyone feel at home upon every visit.