641 Merrimon Avenue
Asheville, NC 28804
*Disclaimer: We were not paid for this review. All opinions are our own and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
The best local Italian restaurant in Asheville is Vinnie's. This local gem is located far away from the downtown tourist congestion, and thus, offers the perfect quiet ambiance for a low-key family gathering or date night. This is the place I go to when I do not want to deal with the hassle of finding parking and dealing with tourist foot traffic downtown. Delicious cuisine, friendly service, and a great vibe - what more could you ask for in a great Italian restaurant? They are known for their old school vibe and delicious pasta entrees.
Vinnie's offer classic Italian fare at affordable prices. The restaurant bills itself as providing "Old School" Italian fare, reminiscent of something you would find in the North End of Boston or Brooklyn. After living in Boston for many years, I can attest that Vinnie's serves high quality Italian cuisine. The food here is definitely terrific! The best in this region for sure!
Start off with an order of Vinnie's famous garlic knots, served with marinara. If it is cold outside, you may want to warm up with a delicious bowl of homemade minestrone or Italian wedding soup.
Pasta plates are served individual or family style (enough to feed 3). Baked Ziti is definitely the way to here. This dish was just perfect - just the right ratio of cheese to sauce. Classic Italian entrees like Chicken Parmesan are served alongside 2 sides of your choice. Vinnie's specialties include choices such as Twice-Baked Meat Lasagna and Eggplant Parmesan.
A number of specialty pies are available, however, I recommend going with the classic cheese.
Desserts include a tiramisu, a decadent flourless chocolate cake, and an Italian white cake.
Be on the lookout for weekday specials.
Update: Vinnie's no longer serves pizza.
Service at Vinnie's was friendly and personable. The entrees and appetizers were appropriately spaced out. The meal was laid-back and the servers were not intrusive.
The vibe at Vinnie's is very local and laid-back being that it is not located in the touristy downtown region where most of the trendy, busy restaurants take shop. The decor is inviting and cozy. Additionally, they have a great enclosed patio which you can enjoy all year-round.
Try out Vinnie's on your next visit to Asheville. If you are craving comforting, quality Italian, there really is no better choice in the region. After a long day exploring the sights around Asheville, Vinnie's comes in as a real treat! Whether you are craving a hearty place of Fettuccine Alfredo, a seafood based entree like Linguini & Shrimp, or classic Spaghetti Marinara, you will not be dissapointed.
