One of the best parts of living in Greenville, South Carolina, is the food. Right in the heart of downtown, Jianna Modern Italian stands out as a place locals love and visitors remember. With fresh pasta, oysters, seafood, and warm service, Jianna shows what makes Greenville special.
The Story Behind Jianna
Jianna was created by Executive Chef and Owner Michael Kramer. The name comes from a restaurant in San Francisco where Chef Kramer once worked. That restaurant was owned by Marc Valiani, a chef who became a mentor and close friend.
After Valiani passed away in 2011 from ALS, his influence stayed with Chef Kramer. When opening a new restaurant in Greenville, he chose the name Jianna as a tribute. With permission from Valiani’s widow, Jianna became a place built on respect, passion, and love for Italian food.
Today, every dish reflects that story.
Menu Highlights
Jianna is inspired by all things Italy. The menu focuses on handcrafted pasta, fresh oysters, seafood, meat, and house-made desserts. Dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday starting at 5:00 pm. The full menu is also available for take-out and curbside pickup.
Starters Guests Love
Some of the most popular and shareable starters include:
- North Carolina Burrata with basil pesto, sundried tomato, candied walnuts, and prosciutto
- Char-Grilled Octopus with potato, guanciale, pistachio, and sherry-lemon vinaigrette
- Ricotta Crostini with truffle honey and grilled ciabatta
- Prosciutto di San Daniele, aged 24 months, served with dried figs and pecorino romano
Raw and Chilled Favorites
Jianna is well known for its raw bar:
- Chilled Market Oysters, East Coast or West Coast, served with house sauces and moscato mignonette
- Crudo of Yellowfin Tuna with yuzu, pickled chilis, and watermelon radish
- Adriatic Osetra Caviar, served with grilled bread and whipped ricotta
Handcrafted Pasta Standouts
Pasta is made in house and is the heart of the menu:
- Spaghetti TBG, a classic with tomato, basil, garlic, and grana padano
- Radiatore with Italian sausage, Calabrian chilis, French beans, and mascarpone
- Gemelli with pork shank ragu, broccolini, and whipped ricotta
- Wild Boar Shank Ravioli, rich and comforting with mushrooms and pecorino
Large Plates Worth the Visit
For a full dinner, guests often choose:
- Pan Seared Snapper with fregula sardi and fennel
- Pan Seared Sea Scallops with parsnip puree and hazelnuts
- Grilled Heritage Pork Chop with polenta and pomegranate glaze
- Hangar Steak Tagliata with mushrooms, kale, and salsa verde
Cocktails, Wine, and Desserts
Jianna’s bar serves creative cocktails like:
- Profuma di Italia
- Specialino Spritz
- Grazie Mille
The wine list highlights Italy and the United States. Desserts are made in house by Pastry Chef Alison Legg, offering a sweet finish to every meal.
Atmosphere and Experience
Jianna has a lively but comfortable feel. The open kitchen adds energy, while the space stays welcoming and relaxed. The long signature bar is a favorite spot for oysters and cocktails. Indoor and outdoor seating make it perfect for date nights, family dinners, or meeting friends.
It feels upscale but never stiff.
What Makes Jianna Stand Out
- Handcrafted pasta made daily
- Fresh oysters and seafood
- Large signature bar
- House-made desserts
- Strong ties to the Greenville food community
- A meaningful story behind the name
Plan Your Visit
📞Phone: +1 864-720-2200
🌐Website: jiannagreenville.com
⏰Hours:
- Dinner only
- Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 pm
Jianna is located in downtown Greenville, close to shops, parks, and the Reedy River.
When people move to Greenville, they look for places that feel warm, social, and rooted in the community. Jianna offers all of that. It brings people together over great food and thoughtful service.
If you want to understand Greenville living, a dinner at Jianna is a great place to start.
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