In 2010, Columbus was introduced to Roman-style pan pizza: rectangular in shape, and topped with gourmet ingredients. Pizza Rustica opened at 1558 North High Street in the South Campus Gateway, and since then, eager pie lovers have been lining up for their inspired combinations.
In about one month’s time, Pizza Rustica will open its second location in Columbus, this time at 17 South High Street Downtown, at the former site of Caffé Daniela. Not much will change from the original campus concept, which means customers will be able to come in for a slice, a sandwich or a salad when hunger strikes.
Pizza Rustica offers large, rectangular slices of both traditional offerings, like Pepperoni and Caprese, and epicurean combinations, like Eggplant and Goat Cheese or the Pizza Con Patate. There are over 30 different varieties to choose from, all al taglio, on display, so customers can try something new with every visit.
Pizza Rustica also serves soups, paninis, and desserts using Nutella and dulce de leche, all made from scratch, in-house. They also make their own dough, sauces, and offer gluten-free options. Each trip to Pizza Rustica should only cost diners about $5-$9, a cheap option in the downtown dining scene.
With a prime location right at the corner of Broad and High Streets, Pizza Rustica will offer a great spot for people watching during lunch and afternoons once the weather warms. The 2,300 square foot restaurant will seat roughly 60 at a time indoors, with an additional 30 seats to be added to the patio .
Pizza Rustica’s hours of operation will be Monday-Friday, 10:30am – 7pm upon launch, with additional hours to be added once Spring is here. They will also be offering catering options, so businesses in the area will have another distinctive pizza option to add to their lists.
“We have always envisioned opening in Downtown Columbus, it was just a matter of waiting until we found the right spot,” shares Chris diDonato, local franchise owner of Pizza Rustica. “When the space became available at Broad and High, we knew it was time to make the move. We love what is going on Downtown and we want to be a part of it.”
The Downtown branch of Pizza Rustica is slated to open in late January or early February.
For a look at Pizza Rustica’s complete menu, visit www.pizza-rustica.com.
Rendering provided by the Neighborhood Design Center.