Award-winning Chef Grant MacPherson is set to unveil Rustica, an exciting new restaurant in Fashion Island, next month. Rustica’s cuisine will be inspired from Chef’s international culinary experience, combining authentic regional cooking with uniquely Californian seasonal foods. Busy preparing for the restaurant’s debut on June 1, Chef MacPherson takes some time out to tell Great Taste Magazine about his latest endeavor.
Great Taste: Why did you choose a shopping district and Fashion Island in particular?
Chef MacPherson: I visited sunny, Southern California many times and thought it would be a good opportunity to be part of the Irvine collection at Fashion Island.
GT: What are some of your favorite/signature dishes on the menu?
CM: Char Grilled Baby Octopus, Wild Mushroom Risotto, Baked Organic Chicken, Potato Gnocchi with Shortribs and Homemade Gelatos.
GT: What is the average cover for one guest including beverage?
CM: Lunch $20.00, Dinner $45.00
GT: What is was the inspiration for the restaurant’s decor and theme?
CM: “Old World”
GT: Was it difficult to choose your staff?
CM: No, it has been an enjoyable process.
GT: Being a Chef yourself, knowing that one day you would hand over the reins to your Chef de Cuisine, what were the most important characteristics when selecting someone for that position?
CM: He has to be himself and have a great passion.
Rustica
1133 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach
Tel: 949.706.8282
www.rusticafashionisland.com
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Opening Date: June 1, 2010
