Golfers making the trip to St Andrews this summer can now add another item to their itinerary alongside taking on the challenge of the Old Course.
Rao’s, the legendary East Harlem restaurant that has become one of New York’s most difficult reservations to secure, has officially opened at Rusacks St Andrews, marking the first time in its 130-year history that the restaurant has operated outside the United States.
The seasonal residency, known as Rao’s at Rusacks, will run until October 10 and occupies the hotel’s One Under Bar, just a few yards from the 18th hole of the Old Course. For anyone unfamiliar with the Rao’s story, the restaurant has achieved almost mythical status in New York. Opened in 1896, it has just 10 tables and a reservation system built around generations of regular diners, making a seat there one of the most sought-after bookings in American hospitality.
Now, for one summer at least, golfers and visitors can experience it without having to fly to Manhattan.
A Taste of New York at the Home of Golf
The menu features many of the dishes that have helped make Rao’s famous, including its Traditional Meatballs, Seafood Salad, Lobster Fra Diavolo and Veal Milanese.
True to the restaurant’s roots, the focus is on simple Italian-American cooking designed for sharing, while Scottish ingredients have been incorporated throughout the menu. An extensive wine list, classic cocktails and a selection of Scottish whiskies complete the offering.
Why St Andrews?
The partnership brings together two names that have become institutions in their respective worlds. While Rao’s has been serving diners in East Harlem since the 19th Century, Rusacks has welcomed golfers to St Andrews since 1887. Overlooking the closing hole of the Old Course, the hotel remains one of the most recognisable landmarks in golf.
Ron Straci and Frank Pellegrino Jr., co-owners of Rao’s, said bringing the restaurant to Scotland felt like a natural fit.
“Rao’s has always been about bringing people together around great food, great stories and a sense of family,” they said.
“To bring Rao’s to St Andrews for our first international residency is incredibly meaningful for our family and the restaurant.”
Staying Longer Than Planned
Originally scheduled to close in September, the residency has already been extended through October 10 following strong demand. That means golfers travelling to St Andrews for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship will also have the opportunity to experience Rao’s during one of the busiest weeks of the year in the town.
For those who have always wanted to see what the fuss is about but never had the right connections in New York, this may be the easiest way yet to secure a seat at one of America’s most famous restaurants.
Reservations are now open at www.raosatrusacks.com.