Rustico, the charming Spanish taverna nestled in Lai Chi Kok’s dining destination, D2 Place One, is abuzz with excitement this autumn.
The arrival of a renowned new chef, the introduction of prized Alba white truffles, and a tantalizing a la carte menu expansion all come together to celebrate the flavours of the season.
As the autumn leaves fall, Rustico is poised to make your taste buds dance with the essence of traditional Mediterranean cuisine infused with a contemporary twist.
Chef Javier Gomez Barajas: A Culinary Journeyman
Head Chef Javier Gomez Barajas, hailing from Valencia, brings with him a wealth of culinary experiences from around the globe.
With more than two decades of exploring the kitchens of Spain and the Mediterranean, he has left his mark in cities such as San Sebastian, Madrid, Valencia, and even far-flung locations like Colombia, Scotland, Nigeria, and Ho Chi Minh City.
His culinary journey has seen him embracing the rich Basque cuisine, elevating fresh fish, perfecting new-age tapas, and infusing Asian influences into his classic Spanish repertoire.
Truffle Extravaganza: A Feast for the Senses
Chef Gomez Barajas’s passion for authentic cuisine culminates in the celebration of Alba’s annual truffle hunt. Rustico’s menu now boasts five exquisite dishes infused with the earthy aroma of white truffles.
One such delight is the Poached Japanese Egg and Spanish Potato Textures, where the sensuous fragrance of truffles meets a premium organic Japanese egg, resulting in a sublime combination.
Rustico’s devotion to Mediterranean-style flavours shines through in dishes like Homemade Tagliatelle, where luscious mushroom jus, butter, and parmesan cheese dance with white truffle’s intoxicating aroma.
Other delectable options include the Burrata and Mix Leaves Salad and Beef Carpaccio, both graced by the presence of white truffle.
Dessert Extravaganza
The culinary magic doesn’t stop with the main course. Rustico’s “Rustico” Tiramisu Foam, adorned with fresh truffle shavings, showcases the versatility of this autumn delicacy. For those who can’t get enough of the truffle experience, it can crown any dish on the a la carte menu for an additional fee.
Chef Gomez Barajas brings his fresh interpretation to Rustico’s main menu, featuring delights such as the Spanish Raf Tomato and Marinated Cod Fish Salad, a refreshing dish that tantalizes the taste buds. The Roasted Majorero Cheese and Escalivada Mix Nuts Salad, with firm Spanish goat’s cheese and smoky grilled peppers, offers a burst of flavour.
A beloved signature, the Rustico Broken Egg, receives a delightful makeover. Deep-fried baby squid, prawns, and confit potatoes take this dish to new heights, with crispy exteriors and irresistibly tender interiors.
For seafood enthusiasts, the Pan-seared Scallops offer a delightful fusion of textures and flavours. Chef Gomez Barajas’s take on Pescadito Frito showcases local market fish, cod, and squid, deep-fried to perfection and served with an array of delectable sauces.
Savouring the Autumn Season
Rice lovers are in for a treat with Chef Gomez Barajas’s expertise. The Red Crab ‘Meloso’ Creamy Rice features fragrant crustaceans atop Spain’s creamy, honeyed meloso rice. And don’t miss his knockout paella, Duck Foie Gras, Wild Mushroom, and Chicken Paella, a luxurious blend of flavours and textures.
Chef Gomez Barajas takes inspiration from Central America in crafting ‘Escabeche’ Chicken Stew with Hand Cut Crispy Potatoes, a heartwarming dish perfect for the cooling temperatures of autumn.
Cap off your Rustico experience with indulgent desserts like Caramelised Bread Pudding and Basque Country Cheesecake, each offering a unique twist on classic flavours.
To accompany your meal, indulge in Agua de Valencia, a new addition to the drinks list. This fruity and refreshing Spanish cocktail, reminiscent of both mimosa and sangria, features cava poured over shots of vodka and gin, and freshly squeezed orange juice – a tribute to Chef Gomez Barajas’s hometown.
Chef Gomez Barajas has also crafted a special 8-course seasonal tasting menu, inviting diners to savour new and signature creations that highlight the sea and mountains of his homeland. From Spanish Serrano Ham to delightful paellas, this tasting menu promises a delightful culinary journey.
Conclusion
As Head Chef Javier Gomez Barajas puts it, “After travelling the world for 20 years, I am excited to be newly settled in Hong Kong and present my original interpretations of Spanish classics.” Rustico invites you to experience these delightful interpretations and the magic of Alba truffles in a cosy, rustic setting that transports you to the heart of Spain. Come, and indulge in the flavours of autumn at Rustico, where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.
