Travinia Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar 1

Italian-American Traditions With a Twist

Whether you’re a fan of modern and eclectic culinary experiences or a lover of traditional Italian fare, Travinia Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar has something for you. The Biltmore Park restaurant blends Northern and Southern Italian tastes, featuring a spread of American Italian favorites among more unusual offerings. Nestled among classics as marsala dishes, calamari and flatbread pizzas are creations for the adventurous eater, such as their must-try Italian nachos. The far-ranging menu changes twice yearly and is complemented by a selection of sixty-one wines, not including a reserve menu. The bar also provides a mouthwatering array of house martinis, craft cocktails and after-dinner drinks to keep spirits high throughout the evening.

Chef Ed Phero values dynamism and creativity in everything he does: inspired by global flavors, he adds an innovative flair while honoring the rich history of Italian cooking. A native of the deep South, Chef Phero’s long-standing interest in food and wine led him to The Culinary Institute of America in Upstate New York, where he graduated as class president in 2000. He soon returned to the South and has been part of the Asheville restaurant scene for several years, helping to open 131 Main and Wicked Weed.  When it comes to cooking, he’s truly a renaissance man. “I bring passion to everything I do,” he says warmly. Among his favorite items to make at Travinia are Asian and South American inspired soups du jour and classic cheesecake, made in-house from scratch. He also loves to run duck and lamb specials; though not always available, those lucky customers who dine on nights they’re featured are well-advised to try them.

Phero’s versatility has helped Travinia Italian blossom into a destination that provides second-to-none dining for a wide range of customers. Much of their menu is naturally gluten-free; for those aren’t, gluten-free pasta is always available as a substitute. They also happily cater to vegetarians, vegans, and those with more specific dietary restrictions. Chef Phero makes it a point to personally speak with his customers to come up with something that works just for them, making sure that everybody is left sated.

Travinia Italian also offers full-service catering for special occasions; events can be held in-house or off premises. Their mouthwatering catering menu is just a jumping-off point, as kitchen staff happily work directly with their event clients to produce one-of-a-kind dining experiences. Indeed, their numerous options and unbeatable service for lunch, dinner, and catering makes Travinia Italian Kitchen an excellent fit for groups with a variety of tastes and needs. With so much to choose from, traditionalists may just find something new to fall in love with.