Ang F.
Yelp
Had high expectations for Jianna, given the reviews and articles across the internet.
Ambiance was open and seating was well executed. We didn't have reservations, yet we're seated within 15 min; service was mostly good. Recommendations were honest, from the perspective of the server, and service was met well overall.
Admittedly, the menu items read much better than they tested. The descriptions, for sure, grabbed our attention, but the satisfaction wasn't quite met. The best ordered from our selection (inspired by recommendations) was certainly the Gemelli al Nero de Sepia which was made with: Maine Lobster, Haricot Verts, Aleppo Pepper, Garlic Breadcrumb. The black is due to squid ink, and the texture was perfectly al dente.
The Poppyseed Radiatori honestly didn't taste different than a homemade pasta primavera. Not very much lump crab, which we thought would steal the show on this dish.
Really appreciated the sunflower gremolata on the halibut, which completed the soft fish with texture. The fish, however, seemed overcooked. Would suggest leaving out the garlic cream sauce (had more of a resemblance to an aioli and/or mayo).
The server did recommend the Char-grilled Octopus
(Potato, Guanciale, Pistachio, Sherry-lemon Vinaigrette) and it didn't disappoint! Texture was not rubbery at all, and instead soft and easy to chew.
I'm glad we checked it out, but it didn't really live up to the hype. It's possible that this could be a good taste for what Greenville is used to. It does, however, help that the area is fantastic, and the balcony is quite pleasant (and different from other venue spaces) which led to a nice digestive walk afterwards.