Jianna: Italian Dining in Greenville

Jianna rises above the buzz of downtown Greenville, perched on the second floor of 600 South Main Street. The moment you step into this modern Italian osteria, you feel the balance between sophistication and warmth. Natural light spills across polished tables, while the lively energy of the open kitchen fills the space with anticipation. Outside, the balcony offers a perch over Falls Park and Main Street, where city sounds blend with laughter and clinking glasses.

Chef Michael Kramer, a culinary veteran with deep roots in Italian tradition, leads the experience with thoughtful creativity. His dishes draw from seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers, fishermen, and artisans. The result is a menu that feels both timeless and refreshing. Every plate speaks of his connection to the food and to the late Marc Valiani, his mentor and the original inspiration for Jianna’s name.

The Spirit Behind the Name

Chef Kramer chose the name Jianna as a tribute to Valiani, a San Francisco restaurateur whose talent and personality left a lasting impression. After Valiani passed away from ALS in 2011, Kramer carried his mentor’s passion forward. Before opening the Greenville restaurant, he reached out to Valiani’s widow to request permission to use the name. She agreed, adding her own sense of humor and sentiment to the blessing. That backstory gives Jianna an emotional weight that lingers in every thoughtfully crafted detail.

Fresh Pasta and Bold Ingredients

The kitchen at Jianna comes alive daily with the rhythm of hand-rolled pasta and simmering sauces. Kramer’s team creates fresh noodles in traditional and experimental forms, from familiar linguine to curly casarecce and deeply satisfying tonarelli. The pasta options are complemented by expertly prepared seafood, house-aged meats, and bold vegetable dishes that showcase regional produce.

Diners rave about several recurring stars of the menu:

• Ricotta Crostini: Creamy, tangy, and served on grilled ciabatta, this simple starter captures Jianna’s knack for flavor without fuss.
  
• Char-Grilled Octopus: Tender and smoky, often praised for its perfect texture and smart seasoning.
  
• Spaghetti TBG: A rich plate that pairs well with a side of meatballs, offering a familiar comfort with elevated technique.
  
• Squid Ink Pasta: Jet-black and bursting with depth, this dish turns heads with its presentation and flavor.
  
• Potato Gnocchi: Rich, pillowy, and often featured with truffle or crab, depending on seasonal specials.
  
• Fresh Oysters: East and West Coast varieties are served chilled with mignonette, cocktail sauce, and house hot sauce. Regulars often time their visits with half-price oyster specials.

Other dishes, such as the red snapper in light tomato broth or lamb ragù pasta, rotate with the seasons, adding excitement to return visits.

Cocktails and Wine with Personality

The 40-foot indoor-outdoor bar stretches through the dining room and onto the balcony, inviting guests to sip and settle in. Jianna’s mixologists craft cocktails with a keen sense of balance and style. For those seeking wine, the list spans both Italian and American labels. Servers are happy to help pair a crisp Prosecco or deep Chianti with your dish, adding to the sense of casual luxury.

Guests often speak of the warmth and insight of the staff. Whether it’s a recommendation from your server, a custom cocktail from the bartender, or a birthday menu with your name printed at the top, service at Jianna makes every meal feel personal.

A Balcony Worth Booking

The second-floor balcony is a coveted spot. From this perch, diners enjoy views of Falls Park and the street below. Soft lighting, cool evening air, and the hum of Greenville’s nightlife form a backdrop that elevates the experience.

Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially for weekend nights and outdoor seating. Tables often fill quickly, and special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays receive thoughtful touches that make celebrations feel truly special.

What Locals and Travelers Say

Online reviews tell the story of Jianna through dozens of voices. Locals return for its consistency, atmosphere, and quality. Travelers passing through are often delighted by the discovery and recommend it as a destination for those looking to indulge. Common themes across platforms include praise for the attentive service, vibrant flavors, and the seamless indoor-outdoor flow of the space.

Hours and Practical Details

Jianna is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, with lunch service available on weekends. Gluten-free options are available, though a few items like meatballs and gnocchi cannot be modified. While the restaurant does not provide calorie counts on the menu, the staff is accommodating to dietary inquiries.

A Dining Experience That Lasts

Jianna is not flashy or theatrical. Its appeal lies in its refinement, thoughtful preparation, and genuine hospitality. Each dish tells a story, and every visit feels like a well-composed performance that satisfies without pretension.

For anyone passing through Greenville or planning an evening downtown, Jianna delivers a dining experience that lingers well beyond the final bite. Whether you settle into a table with a view or pull up a seat at the bar, the spirit of Italian cooking—fresh, elegant, and heartfelt—welcomes you at every turn.