about us
About Jianna Modern Italian
Nestled in the heart of downtown Greenville, SC, Jianna exudes the traditions of a modern Italian Osteria with a bustling open kitchen and an unpretentious and approachable style. Renowned chef and owner Michael Kramer draws his inspiration from classic Italian cuisine, using only the best and freshest seasonal ingredients from farmers, artisans and friends throughout the region. He takes it one step further by adding an innovative twist to each dish and giving it that “wow” factor that turns a meal into an unforgettable dining experience.
At Jianna, house made pastas are created daily. Not only linguine or fettuccine, but hand rolled pastas and uniquely shaped, extruded noodles such as Casarecce or Tonarelli. Italian favorites like Burratta, Char-Grilled Octopus, Potato Gnocchi, Italian cheeses, Spaghetti and unique preparations of fresh seafood fill the menu. The restaurant’s extraordinary 40-foot signature bar invites guests to take a seat indoors or outdoors, and to enjoy freshly shucked oysters or indulge in the sliced to order Prosciutto di Parma. Jianna’s mixologists are always ready to present a variety of interesting handcrafted cocktails, vibrant and crisp Proseccos, and a wine list that embraces the flavors of both Italy and the United States.
Jianna Modern Italian is where wine and simple, delicious food come together and are best celebrated with family and friends. Vi Diamo il Benvenuti! (we welcome you!)
a storied name
The story of Jianna is personal and inspirational. Years ago, Executive Chef Michael Kramer worked for a restaurant in San Francisco called Jianna, owned by Marc Valiani who quickly became one of Chef Kramer’s culinary mentors.
Sadly, Valiani passed way from ALS in 2011, but Chef Kramer remained inspired by the food he cooked and the chef and person he was. When it came time to name a new restaurant, Chef Kramer said the name “Jianna” came immediately to mind.
“Marc was an amazing person and could make anything taste delicious,” says Chef Kramer. “I felt the name Jianna would represent everything that we are trying to do here in Greenville.”
Chef Kramer reached out to Marc Valiani’s widow to ask for her approval to use the “Jianna” name for the new concept. She kindly agreed. She also mentioned jokingly that she sometimes thought of “Jianna” as her husband’s mistress. After all, most chefs spend more time in their restaurants than they do at home. Her remark opened us up to the idea that our Jianna would have her own personality, with a story. Don’t be surprised if “Jianna” appears as part of the restaurant in the near future.
Chef Kramer proudly presents Jianna to the city of Greenville and hopes that Chef Valiani would be pleased. When you dine at with us, you’ll not only be enjoying from-scratch pasta and fresh oysters, you’ll be experiencing the labor of love that is our Jianna.