Rumari
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Lead Staff
Chris Keller
Proprietor
Executive Chef
General Manager
Pubic Relations
Fine italian soul food Since 1989
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There are only a handful of family owned and operated restaurants in the OC that have persevered through the years. It takes a combination of knowledge, discipline, talent, and luck to be able to host locals for decades and still have them at your doorstep. Why do they come back? Because they crave more —more of the kinds of food and dining experiences that make them feel good. Ristorante Rumari is known for its ‘Italian Soul Food.’ There is still something unique and special about seeking out comfort food, and particularly Italian comfort food that reminds us of home, and of romance.
At Ristorante Rumari, Chef-Proprietor Vince Crivello from Porticello, Sicily has created the kind of dining experience reminiscent of New York City’s Italian family-style dining. In a casual but elegant setting, you will be taken on a culinary journey through all the regions of Italy. Specializing in seafood dishes from the family’s recipes, breaded swordfish, spaghetti al frutti di mare, and seafood risotto are the local favorites. Branzino is also on the menu as per availability. For land lovers there is Filet Migon, and a variety of Chicken dishes.
Ristorante Rumari’s pasta has become legendary and residents who move away affectionately and passionately return to get their fill of nostalgia over a plate of Black Linguine quick-baked in foil with manila and chopped clams, tiger shrimp, tomato sauce and brandy. It’s a flavor that reminds them of home and their time living in Laguna Beach.
The beloved matriarch Mamma Bina still works lovingly, preparing cannoli for guests to enjoy the taste of real Italian pastries, and Papa Nino’s focaccia recipe is so light and tasty with just the right amount of herbs and garlic to entertain the palate as a prelude to some of the most authentic Italian dishes you can find anywhere in the OC. Whether you are in search for the perfect Brunello, Willamette Pinot, or Napa Cab the wine list delivers, and the House wines are surprisingly upscale, and feature both CA and Italian whites and reds to please every palate.
Ristorante Rumari is a favorite local hang-out for those who are seeking a non-pretentious, warm and cozy environment to share a meal with family and friends, or simply to hang out at the bar with their favorite dish and glass of wine. Five Star Hotels in the area send their clientele when they are looking for quality Italian food and more than just a bill that makes them roll their eyes. The staff will serve you like a VIP whether you’re casual, or formally dressed. At Ristorante Rumari guests feel comfortable coming home to dinner where they will be treated like part of the family.
Your pets are also welcome out on the patio because we understand they too are famiglia!
We look forward to serving you and we promise that your experience will not only nourish your body, but also your soul. That is why we refer to our food as ‘Italian Soul Food’ because our dishes are both healthy and emotional; they remind our guests of home-cooked meals with rich flavors and generous portions. We emphasize service and strive to make every guest feel special. We stand by our dishes and the total dining experience that have made us a success for the past three decades.
Arrivederci a presto!