Cafe Rustica — Restaurant in Somerville

Small local cafe that serves affordable coffee and amazing Italian sandwiches.

For over two decades, Cafe Rustica has been a beloved cafe among the locals in this Somerville neighborhood. With classical music gently playing in the background, this quaint cafe offers a soothing ambiance that is perfect for a brief but relaxing stop.

I’ve been coming to Cafe Rustica for a quick bite over the past two weeks. After trying their roast beef sandwich on my first visit, I instantly fell I love. The sandwiches here come with a perfectly toasted and pressed paninis, and each bite offered an irresistible crunch. Roast beef itself was just okay, so on my subsequent visit, I got the Italian tuna sandwich. Packed with classic Italian ingredients – like roasted peppers, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh tomato – it was one of the best simple Italian sandwiches I had in a while.

The cafe has a 45-minute limit on table usage, although I'm not entirely sure how strictly this rule is enforced. Despite the crowd during my visits, people didn’t seem to have any issue finding seating.

If you’re looking for a simple Italian panini sandwiches, Cafe Rustica might just be one of the best options in the Greater Boston area. Will definitely be back to try more of...

Hidden gem alert

Was nearby getting car serviced (Aris auto; recommend) and needed a quiet place to pump out a bit of the ole 9-5.

Casually strolled into pretty much the most quaint and lovely little neighborhood cafe I’ve seen in Cambridge thus far — falling in Love is that easy, folks.

Regulars stationing themselves in their usual spots inside, chitchatting away with newspapers in hand, waiting for their coffee and/or food. Relaxing acoustic guitar bgm playing in the background; exactly what I was looking for.

Ordered a dbl espresso and an egg sandwich (2 eggs w/ additions of sausage, onions, red peppers and cheddar cheese) from the gentleman at the counter and sat down at an open spot. Coffee & food came lightning fast and hot. Strong, good espresso paired with a delicious everything bagel filled w/ fresh pipping hot ingredients; what’s not to love?

Total came out to be

AMAZING! Moved my daughter to Cambridge and came across this hidden gem walking the surrounding area. The food was fantastic! I had the egg sandwich (super light and fluffy) on the best croissant. My daughter and husband both got the prosciutto hand sliced in house. Both said it was fantastic. I ordered a brownie and chocolate chip cookie to go. Best decision, after walking around for the afternoon it was a welcome treat. The gentleman running the counter (owner?) was SO nice! I really enjoyed speaking with him. Welcomed us as we came in and thanked us for coming as we left. My daughter is lucky she gets to stay and enjoy their ambiance and great food again! Totally worth the 20 min...