History and tradition in the heart of Lucca
Located in the heart of Lucca’s historic center, among charming, time-worn alleyways, Rusticanella 2 has been a landmark of authentic Lucchese and Tuscan cuisine for over a century. A place where time seems to slow down, and where every dish tells a story of tradition, passion, and deep respect for quality ingredients.
The origins of Rusticanella 2 date back to 1920, when it was known as Osteria Mescita Vino. From the very beginning, the osteria served as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike, offering simple yet genuine dishes such as spelt soup, tripe, tordelli, and other recipes rooted in the city’s culinary heritage.
In the 1960s, the restaurant was purchased by Mr. Onorato: his cooking soon became legendary, and to this day many locals remember his pizza and tordelli as among the best ever tasted in the city, cementing the osteria’s reputation as a true local institution.
In 1990, two courageous Lucchese entrepreneurs—both named Luca—reopened Rusticanella 2 with the ambition of restoring and surpassing its former prestige. Thanks to their dedication and passion for traditional cuisine, the restaurant once again became an essential destination for anyone wishing to experience authentic Tuscan flavors. With them, the restaurant embraced a bold new chapter by introducing a concept never before seen in Lucca: a Tripperia (a traditional Italian tripe kitchen). After learning the secrets of this historic specialty from master tripe makers in Florence, Luca brought this iconic dish to Lucca in a refined yet deeply traditional form. Thus was born the “Trippaio of Lucca,” offering tripe dishes and sandwiches to enjoy at the restaurant or to take away.
Since 2006, the kitchen has been led by Luca Nelli, now the culinary heart and guiding force of the osteria. A passionate chef and expert in ingredient selection, Luca personally chooses the finest raw materials, with particular attention to meat. The restaurant’s celebrated Florentine steak, sourced from top producers and prepared according to time-honored methods, has become a true delight for lovers of great meat.
Despite this innovation, the restaurant continues to serve the dishes that have defined its identity: traditional soups, fresh pasta served in a wheel of cheese, the classic Lucchese tortello, and a selection of homemade desserts—another hallmark of the kitchen.
The quality of Rusticanella 2’s cuisine has been recognized by Vetrina Toscana, which selected the restaurant for its use of DOP, DOCG, and IGT products. The wine list features over 35 labels, primarily from Tuscany, alongside locally produced artisanal extra-virgin olive oil from Lucca. The restaurant itself is small and welcoming, instantly striking guests with its authentic Tuscan character and the warm hospitality of its host. During the summer months, Rusticanella 2 extends outdoors, offering 24 seats in the charming alley just outside the entrance, creating a truly atmospheric dining experience, just steps away from some of Lucca’s most important landmarks: the Baroque Church of San Paolino, the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini, the Church of San Michele, and the remarkable Piazza Anfiteatro. After a meal, a stroll through the historic streets or along Lucca’s ancient city walls is the perfect way to complete an authentically Lucchese experience!
