N※N

Business and Finance
Source : (remove) : Anime News Network
^{RSS • JSON • XML • CSV}

Business and Finance
Source : (remove) : Anime News Network
^{RSS • JSON • XML • CSV}

Gervasi to open new restaurant and bar

Gervasi Vineyard Expands with New Restaurant and Bar, Enhancing Ohio's Premier Wine Country Destination

CANTON, Ohio – In a move set to elevate the culinary and hospitality landscape of Northeast Ohio, Gervasi Vineyard has announced plans to open a brand-new restaurant and bar, further solidifying its status as a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts, foodies, and travelers alike. The new establishment, slated to debut in the summer of 2025, promises to blend Italian-inspired elegance with modern flair, offering guests an immersive experience that builds on Gervasi's reputation for exceptional dining and award-winning wines. This expansion comes at a time when the region is seeing a surge in agritourism and experiential hospitality, and Gervasi is positioning itself at the forefront of this trend.

Nestled on 55 acres of picturesque vineyards and rolling hills in Canton, just a short drive from Cleveland, Gervasi Vineyard has long been a jewel in Ohio's wine country. Founded in 2010 by the Swaldo family, the property draws inspiration from the rolling landscapes of Tuscany, Italy, and has grown from a modest winery into a full-fledged resort. Today, it boasts multiple dining venues, boutique villas for overnight stays, a spa, event spaces, and, of course, its signature vineyards producing a range of varietals from Cabernet Sauvignon to unique blends like the popular Passione. The vineyard's existing restaurants, such as The Bistro, The Crush House, and The Piazza, have become staples for locals and visitors, offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to upscale Italian cuisine paired with estate-grown wines.

The new restaurant and bar, tentatively named "Vita Bella" (Italian for "Beautiful Life"), will occupy a prime spot on the property, adjacent to the existing Still House and overlooking the serene lake that serves as a centerpiece of the estate. According to Ted Swaldo, the visionary behind Gervasi, the concept for Vita Bella emerged from a desire to create a more intimate, sophisticated space that caters to both casual diners and those seeking a refined evening out. "We've always aimed to transport our guests to Italy without leaving Ohio," Swaldo said in a recent interview. "Vita Bella will embody that ethos, with a menu that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients and our passion for winemaking."

Design-wise, the new venue is being crafted to evoke the charm of an Italian countryside villa, complete with exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. The bar area will feature a custom-built copper-topped counter, ideal for sipping craft cocktails or sampling flights from Gervasi's extensive wine list. Outdoor seating will extend onto a spacious patio, perfect for al fresco dining during warmer months, with fire pits and string lights adding to the ambiance. Architects involved in the project have emphasized sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient lighting and locally sourced materials to align with Gervasi's commitment to environmental stewardship.

The menu at Vita Bella is poised to be a highlight, curated by Executive Chef Scott Swaldo (Ted's son), who has honed his skills in some of Italy's finest kitchens. Expect a fusion of traditional Italian dishes with contemporary twists, such as handmade pastas infused with herbs from the on-site gardens, grilled seafood sourced from sustainable suppliers, and innovative small plates like prosciutto-wrapped figs drizzled with balsamic reduction from Gervasi's own barrels. Vegetarian and gluten-free options will be plentiful, reflecting the growing demand for inclusive dining. The bar program will shine with signature cocktails that incorporate house-made infusions, fresh juices, and, naturally, Gervasi wines. Standouts might include a Negroni variation using the vineyard's red blend or a spritz made with their sparkling Prosecco-style offering.

This isn't just about adding another eatery; it's about enhancing the overall guest experience at Gervasi. The resort already attracts over 200,000 visitors annually, from wine tastings and festivals to weddings and corporate retreats. Vita Bella will integrate seamlessly, offering packages that combine dining with overnight stays in the luxurious villas or spa treatments at The Spa at Gervasi. For instance, guests could enjoy a multi-course dinner paired with a private wine tasting, followed by a relaxing evening in one of the property's upscale accommodations, many of which feature fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and vineyard views.

The timing of this expansion couldn't be better. Ohio's wine industry has been booming, with the state now home to over 300 wineries and contributing significantly to the local economy. Gervasi alone employs more than 200 people and has become a key player in Stark County's tourism sector, drawing visitors from across the Midwest and beyond. The new restaurant and bar are expected to create additional jobs, from chefs and servers to sommeliers and support staff, further boosting the area's employment landscape. Local officials have praised the project, noting its potential to increase tax revenue and promote Canton as a destination rivaling more established wine regions like Napa Valley or the Finger Lakes.

Beyond the economic impact, Vita Bella represents a personal milestone for the Swaldo family. Ted Swaldo, who transitioned from a successful career in manufacturing to pursue his dream of winemaking, sees this as a continuation of his legacy. "Our family has poured our hearts into Gervasi," he shared. "This new space is about creating memories—whether it's a romantic date night, a family celebration, or just a spontaneous getaway." His daughter, who oversees marketing, added that community feedback played a big role in the planning. Surveys and guest suggestions highlighted a desire for more upscale bar options and innovative cuisine, which Vita Bella aims to deliver.

As construction progresses, excitement is building among regulars and newcomers alike. Social media buzz has already started, with Gervasi's Instagram account teasing renderings and behind-the-scenes glimpses. The grand opening is planned for July 2025, coinciding with the height of the summer season and potentially tying into one of the vineyard's popular events, like the annual Grape Harvest Festival. Reservations will be available online, and early birds might snag special introductory offers, such as discounted wine pairings or exclusive tastings.

For those unfamiliar with Gervasi, it's worth noting how the property has evolved over the years. Starting with just a few acres of vines, it has expanded to include a distillery producing spirits like gin and vodka, a coffee house for morning brews, and even a marketplace selling artisanal goods. This holistic approach has earned Gervasi numerous accolades, including being named one of the top winery resorts in the U.S. by publications like Wine Enthusiast and Travel + Leisure. Vita Bella will only add to that prestige, potentially attracting celebrity chefs for pop-up events or hosting wine dinners with international vintners.

In an era where experiential travel is king, Gervasi's new restaurant and bar stand out as a beacon of innovation and tradition. It's not merely a place to eat and drink; it's an invitation to savor life's beautiful moments amid the vines. As Northeast Ohio continues to carve out its niche in the world of wine and hospitality, developments like this ensure the region remains a vibrant, accessible escape for all. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend treat or a tourist planning a road trip, Vita Bella promises to be a highlight worth toasting to.

Looking ahead, the Swaldos hint at even more expansions on the horizon, possibly including additional lodging or enhanced event facilities. For now, though, the focus is on perfecting Vita Bella, ensuring it lives up to the high standards set by the rest of the Gervasi experience. As the summer of 2025 approaches, one thing is clear: Gervasi Vineyard is not just growing—it's thriving, one sip and one bite at a time.

(Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full Cleveland.com Article at:
[ https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2025/07/gervasi-to-open-new-restaurant-and-bar.html ]