Welcome to The Original Vinnies Neighborhood Italian
Nestled in the vibrant community of Asheville, North Carolina, The Original Vinnies Neighborhood Italian stands as a cherished local institution dedicated to serving authentic, heartwarming Italian cuisine. Located conveniently at 641 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC 28804, United States, Vinnies is more than just a restaurant; it is a gathering place where generations connect over classic dishes prepared with passion and integrity. For years, we have cultivated an atmosphere that feels immediately familiar—like stepping into a beloved relative’s dining room—while delivering culinary experiences that honor the rich traditions of Italian cooking. Our commitment extends beyond the plate; we strive to be an integral, welcoming part of the Merrimon Avenue neighborhood fabric.
The essence of Vinnies lies in its dedication to simplicity done exceptionally well. We believe that the best Italian food relies on high-quality ingredients, time-honored techniques, and a generous spirit. Whether you are seeking a comforting plate of pasta after a long day or planning a special evening out, our doors are open, inviting you to savor the true taste of neighborhood Italian dining.
Key Highlights of The Original Vinnies
What sets The Original Vinnies apart in Asheville’s diverse culinary landscape is our unwavering focus on authenticity, community connection, and consistent quality. We pride ourselves on maintaining standards that resonate deeply with our patrons.
Authentic, Time-Honored Recipes: Our menu is built upon foundational Italian recipes passed down through generations. We focus on creating dishes that evoke nostalgia and comfort, utilizing traditional methods that ensure depth of flavor in every sauce, dough, and preparation. This dedication means you taste the history and care in every bite, from our signature entrees to our freshly prepared sides.
A True Neighborhood Anchor: Situated right on Merrimon Ave, Vinnies functions as a true neighborhood hub. We are committed to fostering strong local relationships, making us the preferred spot for casual weeknight dinners, family celebrations, and friendly gatherings. The atmosphere is intentionally warm, unpretentious, and welcoming to everyone who walks through our doors.
Commitment to Quality Ingredients: While we keep our preparations classic, our sourcing philosophy is modern and discerning. We prioritize using fresh, high-quality components wherever possible. This careful selection process ensures that the integrity of our Italian classics shines through, resulting in food that is both robust and refined.
Warm and Inviting Ambiance: Dining at Vinnies is an experience designed for relaxation and enjoyment. The environment balances the energy of a bustling local favorite with the intimacy needed for meaningful conversation. It’s the perfect setting to slow down, share a meal, and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food shared with good company.
We understand that in today’s fast-paced world, finding a place that feels genuinely rooted and consistently excellent is rare. The Original Vinnies strives to be that reliable constant for the Asheville community. Our team is dedicated not only to culinary excellence but also to providing attentive, friendly service that makes every guest feel valued.
Savoring the Vinnies Experience
The journey through our menu is a journey through the heart of Italian home cooking. We aim to offer variety without sacrificing focus, ensuring that whether you choose a rich, slow-simmered ragu or a lighter, bright seafood preparation, you are experiencing the best of what we offer. Our location at 641 Merrimon Ave makes us easily accessible for residents throughout North Asheville and beyond, solidifying our role as a go-to destination for Italian comfort food.
We invite you to discover why The Original Vinnies has become synonymous with quality and community in Asheville. Come taste the tradition, feel the warmth, and become part of our ongoing story. We look forward to welcoming you soon to share a memorable meal.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great dessert
Great wine list
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Private dining room
Small plates
Spirits
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Lively
Romantic
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safe space
Planning
Usually a wait
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Menus
ANTIPASTI
Calamari Fritti
Shrimp Scampi
Steamed Mussels
Arancini
Mozzarella Marinara
Meatballs Marinara
Sweet Italian Sausage
House Made Focaccia
VINNIE'S SPECIALTIES
Twice-Baked Meat Lasagna
Eggplant Parmigiana
Chicken Parmigiana
Parm-Crusted Flounder
INSALATA
Vinnie’s Caesar
Classic Greek
PASTA
Spaghetti With Meatballs
Spaghetti With “Sunday Gravy”
Spaghetti Carbonara
Penne Alla Arrabbiata
Penne Alla Vodka
Baked Ziti Napolitano
Penne Alla Norma
Linguini & Clams
Penne Bolognese
Linguini & Shrimp
Sausage, Peppers, & Onions
Fettuccine Alfredo
ITALIAN CLASSICS
Chicken Picatta
Chicken Marsala
Chicken Paillard
Salmon Gratella
BAMBINO (Kids Menu)
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Chicken Tenders
Penne Butter Noodles
POSTRE
NY Ricotta Cheesecake
Tiramisu
Cannoli
Italian White Cake
Chocolate Budino
Photos
Reviews The Original Vinnies Neighborhood Italian
Megan Griffin
28-11-2025
Wow! My husband and I love good Italian food but are so often disappointed by Olive Garden quality masquerading in a hole-in-the-wall authentic seeming location. That was not this! I wouldn’t call it “hole-in-the-wall” but when we pulled up … More
Nancy Pham
31-08-2025
Food: The food was okay. I'm not from the area so maybe it's a nice place to hangout but the food wasn't screaming authentic but more of something that was frozen and warmed up for us. My pasta didnt seem like it was fully cooked. I was … More
Tami Stewart
31-07-2025
Love the atmosphere of the original inside of the restaurant (a 1930's NY Italian Neighborhood). The Italian music fits the mood and is loud enough to muffle out your neighbors conversations. The outside of the restaurant and the heated porch area don't look like much. Loved our server "Penny" who was sweet, mild manored, knowledgeable, and attentive.
NOW the Chicken Marsala with it's pan fried chicken was moist and flavorful with it's winey mushroom sauce, (BEST) I eaten. It was served with two sides. My husband had the lasagna and it was good. We were celebrating his birthday so they gave him a complementary tiramisu, again delicious. We went early on a Wednesday and by 6:30pm it was packed. Go early or you may get a waiting line (very popular).
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Wait time
No wait
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Lockie Hunter
17-06-2025
A very detailed review from a frequent customer who has been dining here for over a decade
I guess it’s about time that I reviewed Vinnie’s as we have been coming here for … More
April
03-06-2025
Rarely does a restaurant live up to a self-proclaimed title, but in the case of Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian, neighborhood hits the nail on the head. This is a neighborhood joint, in all the best ways possible. Every member of the staff from the hostess, to the waitstaff and bartenders, and even bussers and managers, are warm, inviting, friendly, and accommodating to a fault. It’s southern charm with Italian cuisine. Also, you could plop Vinnie’s onto Canal Street in Little Italy in Manhattan, and it would fit in with every other Italian joint. The décor is spot on, and despite all that welcoming environment and atmosphere, the food alone could stand on its own.
Portions are enormous and can typically be enjoyed family style, so be prepared when you order. Highlights include the fettucine alfredo and eggplant parmigiana. The food will absolutely draw us back for more on any visit to within 30 minutes of the Asheville area
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
2 people
Wait time
10-30 min
Evan Cedar
22-05-2025
I loved every single second of my visit here. Flannery was my waitress today and she was super friendly, welcoming and helpful. I got the lasagna and it was incredible. Its got a feel of a NY Italian restaurant with some jazz music playing … More
Buck Floyd
27-04-2025
Ate here tonight for the first time ever and everything was phenomenal from the service to the food. My new favorite place in WNC to get Italian. If you’re lucky enough to get Beth as your server you’re in for a treat. She goes above and beyond! Will definitely be back!!! More
Maria Jiram
09-04-2025
Highly recommend reservations... We went on a Monday night and had to wait 40 minutes to get sat down; however, it was SO worth it! We had the calamari, fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs and penne a la vodka...all were … More
John and Stephanie Weeks
18-03-2025
Vinny’s was absolutely amazing! I called on a Saturday and left a voicemail requesting to set a reservation for my birthday dinner on Sunday evening. Sunday I received a call back scheduling the reservation and they were able to accommodate our group of eight thankfully on short notice. When we got to the restaurant, the hostess was already waiting for us as we came through the door with eight menus in her arms and friendly greeted us and took us to our table promptly. Our waitress was very nice and accommodating and kept our drinks full! The food was absolutely delicious and all of our guests thoroughly enjoyed our dinner. They brought my favorite dessert, cheesecake with a candle and sang happy birthday and it was so sweet. Highly recommend for a wonderful dinner experience!
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Wait time
No wait
TreeGirl70
11-03-2025
This is one of my Mom's favorite places to go when she visits Asheville, so on our Girls' Trip, this was a must stop. We went early and didn't have to wait for a table, which is unusual. We were seated quickly. I wasn't sure which red wine … More
Reviews The Original Vinnies Neighborhood Italian