Looking to spend an evening succumbing to gastronomic delights? Look no further than Solo Vino Wine Parlor in downtown Aiken.
This family owned and operated nook is coming upon two years of first opening its doors. In 2016, Lou Giusto and wife Stephanie moved to Aiken with the intention of retiring. When their restlessness got the better of them, they opened Solo Vino as a retail wine shop in an old paint store at 200 Park Ave. S.W. Selling wine, however, was not enough to quell Lou’s creative passion for preparing delicious food. Thus, the couple carved out dinner seating for 44 people within the retail niche.
The Naked Epicurean Visits Bar West
Son, Nick Giusto graciously gave me a tour, a twinkle in his eye as he relayed that their fledgling business survived COVID despite opening only six short months before the pandemic. Since then, they have added al fresco dining with four outdoor tables.
All the food at Solo Vino is fresh, as they have no freezer or fryer, and they source locally when possible. The menu, which changes daily, features tried and true plates such as pork, chicken and beef as well as refreshingly uncommon dishes such as pumpkin swordfish and branzino, all adorned with Giusto’s innovative flair.
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With a wine inventory of over 300 bottles from all over the world, how does one choose pairings for their global menu?
Solo Vino’s resident sommelier Christine is ready at the helm to guide your selection based on your palate, price point and occasion.
At Solo Vino, you need not extend your pinky. No noses in the air or stodginess here. Rather this establishment invites you to embark on a friendly epicurean adventure. Dinner hours are from 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday with the retail shop open from 1 to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended.
Naked Epicurean: Lava Drinks and Roller Skates
Solo Vino will be closed from June 29 to July 13 for vacation. It will reopen Wednesday, July 14. For reservations, call (803) 262-5335.
Ann Beth Strelec is known around town as the Naked Epicurean. Find out about adult beverages at The Augusta Press on the first and third Friday or on Instagram @NakedEpicurean.
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