Rao's Restaurant to Hold Temporary Residency at The Rusacks Hotel

From May through September 2026, New York’s renowned Italian restaurant Rao’s will operate a seasonal, dinner-only service at The Rusacks Hotel in St Andrews.

This will be the first time that the family-run restaurant will open its doors outside of the US since its establishment in East Harlem, New York, in 1896. During this four-month summer period, Rao’s will take over the underground dining space currently held by the Rusacks’ One Under Bar. 

According to a recent article in The Scotsman, Rao’s international fame stems from its blend of “simple, homemade food with an experience steeped in family traditions, festive décor [and] impromptu performances.” Rao’s regular customers at its New York location range from locals to celebrities and sports icons.

Regarding the recent decision to open in St Andrews, Ron Straci and Frank Pellegrino Jr., the co-owners of Rao’s, told The Scotsman, “Rao’s has always been about family, tradition, and creating unforgettable experiences around the table.”

The co-owners added, “Bringing Rao’s to St Andrews for the first time in our history is incredibly meaningful to us. To share our Southern Italian heritage in a setting as iconic and storied as Rusacks — overlooking the Old Course — allows us to introduce the spirit of Rao’s to a new audience while staying true to the warmth and authenticity that have defined us for nearly 130 years.”

At the Rusacks, Rao’s will adopt a curated menu that combines its traditional Southern Italian dishes with local Scottish ingredients.

Ben Weprin, founder and CEO of AJ Capital Partners, added: “Rao’s is synonymous with tradition and legacy, and there is no better setting than the birthplace of golf to help share its story with new audiences.”

Photo by Christopher Kelly-Brown