18 Jan Rustica Canteen, Melbourne CBD

Brenton Lang (Rustica Sourdough), Tristan White (ex-Head Chef of Ladro and Touchwood), and Matt Vero (Coin Laundry, Tall Timber, Touchwood, The Marquis of Lorne Hotel) have combined forces to set up Rustica Canteen. It takes on an industrial theme, going for a darker colour scheme with plenty of timber.

Its drawcards are the delectable pastries a-la Rustica Sourdough on display at the counter, fresh bread available for purchase, and of course being a ‘canteen’, the food. Sandwiches will change every now and then, and will be filled with plenty of local ingredients and obviously made using Rustica’s delicious bread.

There are other breakfast items available as well as daily specials, but I chose to focus on the sandwiches on both my visits. I’ve sampled the delight that was the panko-crumbed flounder burger, which featured an incredibly crunchy crust encasing juicy fish, and refreshing aioli on a toasted brioche bun. $14 may seem a little pricey, but it did come with a side potato and pickled cucumber salad.

The beef brisket was indeed smokey, but had a very slight tinge of sweetness. Combined with carrot, red cabbage slaw and chipotle aioli on ciabatta, this was another one I wouldn’t mind tucking into again.

It’s the sort of place I wouldn’t mind hanging out to do work, catching up with friends and returning for some of those yummy sandwiches and enticing breakfast dishes. With Rustica Canteen in place, this block is almost like a little foodie hidey hole with Raw Trader, Shortstop and N2 all in a row on Sutherland St, then Krimper and Rustica Canteen around the corner. CBD goers with a sweet tooth are spoilt for choice here.

Rustica Canteen
33 Guildford Ln
Melbourne, VIC, 3000
(03) 9642 2203
www.rusticacanteen.com.au/