Avanti Gourmet

Italian · Hendersonville, TN

Italian Italian (Traditional)

Location & contact

Address
711 East Main St
Hendersonville, TN 37075
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Hours
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Menu
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Map loads on tap/scroll 711 East Main St, Hendersonville · 36.324813, -86.566035

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About Avanti Gourmet

Avanti Gourmet, conveniently located near Nashville in Hendersonville, TN, specializes in hot &
cold buffets, as well as full-service sit down dining, for Conferences, Seminars, Holiday and Special Parties, Bridal Showers, Birthdays, Cocktail Parties or any Occasion.

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Diner reviews of Avanti Gourmet

4.5
79 rated reviews
5★ 64
4★ 5
3★ 1
2★ 4
1★ 5
A diner from Cottontown Oct 20, 2017
If you are checking out the reviews for Avanti Gourmet, the multiple 5 star reviews are justified. My husband and I research and travel weekly seeking great food and most don't get a second visit. Avanti Gourmet is worthy of eating your way through the entire menu. Small, unpretentious. It's all about the food! The chef has an impressive background and a natural talent for rich, complex flavors and textures. For my fellow "foodies", plan an early dinner "4pm" and time allowing the chef can join you to talk shop. He brings old world art to a modern pallet. "Gilmore" fans, this is where their hiding the "Magic Risotto". The owner and staff are wonderful and very accommodating seeing to all your needs. Classy and professional. STANDING OVATION!!!! Avanti Gourmet!!!
A diner from Gallatin, TN May 9, 2014
Hendersonville is overrun with run-of-the-mill spots, so Avanti Gourmet is a diamond. A varied, but not overwhelming, dine-in menu, with fine mixture of Greek & Italian selections, complements a great selection of cold take-home deli-style meals. I have never had a bad experience here. The service alone is enough to make one feel at home. When an unfortunately rude customer sat near me one time, making snide remarks to his waitress, the owner was expert in defusing the situation without causing further ruckus. Ingredients are on display for any one to see, and the staff are glad to answer any questions about the food and preparation. Do not miss out on this spot, and make sure to try Breakfast if it's early.
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ActiveDiner diner Mar 30, 2014
We dined at Avanti last evening and had the worst experience ever. We waited for an hour and twenty minutes for our food. The manager came out and made an excuse about misplacing our ticket and it was not very believable. The food was equal to something from the frozen food section at Kroger.
A diner from Mt Juliet, TN Dec 20, 2013
I have used Avanti for catering events & try to eat there on my own as much as I can. The atmosphere is cozy, the service is great, and the food is absolutely delicious! The proprietor, Charlie, knows his stuff. He's a dream to work with--give him a budget and ideas, and he'll work very hard to make it happen. I'm very picky about my food--and the quality of food for my catered events. I never have to worry about anything with Charlie in charge. Presentation and set-up always runs great, and he even took the time to "train" my team of student helpers on how to properly serve the food, about portion control, etc. It just doesn't get better than Charlie! And by the way, he makes some damn good sweet tea, to be from New York!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Mar 24, 2013
This was the first time I visited this restaurant, but it is definately not the last! The breakfast was delicious; the potatoes were the best I've ever had. I loved the crunchiness! The atmosphere was very nice. Service was superb - just the right amount of attention. I also checked out the lunch and dinner menu. Like I said, I will visit again! :)
A diner from Galatin Mar 4, 2013
WOW! We love this place!Best Italian food in Tennessee!
Rebecca & Haley
A diner from Bethpage, TN Feb 12, 2013
We used Avanti to cater a big luncheon on campus, and you couldn't ask for anything better than Charlie and his team. He's so accommodating--just give him your budget, and he comes up with a plan. We had garden salad (which was just beautiful and full of color and flavor), chicken cacciatore, baked ziti, vegetable quiche (my fave!), and tomato lobster bisque, which was amazing. All the food was fantastic, and our guests were very impressed. Charlie is so nice to work with. We had a team of student ambassadors to be our servers. He took his time to explain to them exactly how to do everything, and he has such a wonderful way of teaching others. Our event was a hit because of the food! I can't wait to work with Charlie and his team again. Love him!
A diner from Greeneville, TN Nov 24, 2012
While visiting friends in Gallatin, they said you have to try this Italian restaurant. We know you like Italian. They were right. When you walk in the door it looks, smells, and sounds like an Italian restaurant. We had the four cheese ravioli and the eggplant parmesan. The food was cooked to perfection. The pasta fresh and the tomato sauce was not overbearing. It (the sauce) was so fresh and complemented the food so well. What a treat. Charles made the restaurant feel as if you were in his home. When we come back to Gallatin, we will be back. Our visit was 11/21/2012.
A diner from Anniston, AL Nov 3, 2012
My favorite is linguine with white wine clam sauce - Avanti's is the best I have had since dining at Mama Campisi's in Panama City, Florida many years ago. Would love to sample other entrees from this authentic Italian menu.
A diner from Clarksville, TN Sep 30, 2012
We recently had our son's rehearsal dinner at Avanti Gourmet...it was perfect and the staff made each of us feel at home. If you are looking for a great place to dine, with a friendly atmosphere and excellent food...this is a great choice...my husband and I highly recommend you try it...we are looking forward to returning soon and bringing some friends with us for the experience. Thank you to the Avanti family who served us. You were wonderful!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Apr 26, 2012
Love Avanti and their food. Charlie, the owner, is an amazing chef and person. 5****
A diner from Sumner County Apr 11, 2012
With all the good things happening in Hendersonville, we consider Avanti Gourmet as one of the "best" places to eat! We feel at home there whether it is for dinner or for Sunday brunch. If you haven't tried it, you are missing out!!! Nathan & Joyce Douglas
A diner from Brentwood TN Mar 29, 2012
I've never had a bad meal at Avanti. Everything they make is GREAT, and I love that they support the sumner county animal rescue. My favorites are the penne in vodka sauce with meatballs, and their eggplant parm is the best I have every had. The only problem is I don't live close by, and their dining room in kind of small, but when everyone feels like family small isn't a bad thing.
A diner from Old Hickory, TN Mar 8, 2012
I ate there for the first time on Tuesday, and it won't be my last. The food was delicious and our server "Brianna" was a delight.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jan 19, 2012
The breakfast at Avanti was excellent. Great place to go and get work done because they offer free wi-fi. Service was excellent as well.
A diner from Old Hickory, TN Jan 18, 2012
Avanti's is a casual place with a sophisticated atmosphere serving good food, friendly service and the feeling of friendship. This is one of those places that draws you back not only for the food but for the experience. We recommend this Deli/Restaurant!!!
A diner from Hendersonville Jan 18, 2012
I come in here every day, sometimes twice a day.. ..best value in town,,service is great..you have to try it!!!!!!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jan 12, 2012
Absolutely the best pizza in middle Tennessee. I grew up in the north eating Chicago pizza and this man know's how to make a pie. I'm sorry but most people in middle Tennessee wouldn't have any idea what good pizza is. Go here and you'll have an opportunity to find out...
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Dec 7, 2011
First time here; basic breakfast, eggs sausage and home potatoes had really good flavor and substantial portions. Coffee was good with free small oj. But service was lacking considering I was the only one in the place. Had to wait way too long for the bill and had to ask twice; not good. But I will be back again to try other menu items including the pizza.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Dec 4, 2011
Horrible first experience with catering! The owner was unprofessional and rude. I didn't receive a return call when making my initial order, then went there physically and placed the order again and spoke to the owner, Charlie. However, on Saturday when a family member went to pick it up; it wasn't ready - they couldn't even find my order. Charlie was called in and he was extremly rude and did not seem to care at all about customer service. The order was ready 45 minutes after it was supposed to be and guests had all ready arrived at my home. I didn't expect food for free, but I did expect to be taken care of - I didn't get anything from this experience except expensive food that was late, lack of respect for the owner and a restaurant in our town I will not use again.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Oct 21, 2011
Today is my birthday and their is no other place I would rather go to than Avanti Gourmet. There food is delicious!! The lasagna is better than any I have ever eaten out in a restaurant and the Fettichini is wonderful. We bring in new couples as often as we can because the food is so good. It has a wonderful family atmosphere and I highly recommend it.
A diner from Gallatin, TN Sep 11, 2011
My family and I just moved here from the St. Louis area. I have to say that I had the best roast beef sandwich I have ever had. I took the extras to my husband. He said, "I want to go there!" The folks working there along with the owner, were just fantastic. I highly recommend.
A diner from Gallatin, TN Aug 6, 2011
This is the best Italian food I have ever eaten at a restaurant. Ive been going every Saturday night for the past two months and Its HEAVENLY. I get the spaghetti with meatsauce and meatballs.

Meatballs are almost as good as my xhubbys moms...and she is from Sicily! Dave always gets the lasagna and says its almost as good as mine, but I think its better but I wont tell him that lol. Oh and he tried the pizza tonight...says it is just like his moms. He almost cried when he ate it lol.

You know how Italian Sausage sometimes has gristley balls of fat in it?? Dont know how they do it, but theirs doesnt have any of that!

I cant speak of alot on the menu because I find something I love and always order it..why mess with a good thing?

Cannoli cake...Tried it for the first time in my life and it was DELICIOUS! Love the carrot cake too, but ive found a new love and its name is Cannoli Cake!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jul 29, 2011
Love to dine here. Very clean and friendly environment. The food is delicious and the staff is awesome! Excellent Italian food and wonderful breakfasts, as well. It's our favorite place to eat!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jul 23, 2011
My husband and I always gravitate to Avanti when dining out. The food is delicious with ridiculously large portions and the service is outstanding..Brianna & Sally (we will miss you) always make our night enjoyable. We always bring out of town guests in because there is something on the menu for everyone and they have never let us down. My husband has one complaint...they run out of cannoli!!!!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jul 15, 2011
I can't say enough good things about Avanti Gourmet!

We moved here last fall from the Northeast, and were craving some good, authentic Italian food. At Avanti's our tastebuds were treated to some amazing food that could've come from my Italian Grandmother's own kitchen!

The staff is beyond amazing and makes the entire experience that much more enjoyable. The feeling you get in the restaurant is that of a very close-knit community of family and friends; and everyone's welcome!

Whether you're looking for a great place to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner; you don't have to look any further than Avanti's!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Apr 20, 2011
This is the place to eat. The food is great with fantastic service. Eaten there probably 50 times and never had anything bad. Oh, corn beef hash is the bomb, the best I've ever had. Will see you again soon
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Feb 4, 2011
I had heard great things about Avanti's from a co-worker but finally decided to try it out when they were hosting a fundraiser for Friends of Hannah which I support. I now have a favorite italian restaurant in Nashville!! The chicken parmigiana was the best I've ever had! I will be visiting this restaurant often and bringing my italian relatives the next time they visit!
A diner from Gallatin, TN Jan 31, 2011
We have traveled to six continents (not antartica) and would rate Avanti Gourmet with the best anywhere. Charlie equals any place in Italy with his Italian dishes.Great variety of food to suite any person and reminds me of home town dining in Chicago. Love to take out of town guests to his restaurant and they are amaised that such quality exists in this area.
A diner from Hendersonville Jan 22, 2011
You will NEVER go away hungry from Avanti's!! Excellent food in generous portions and reasonably priced with excellent service. Avanti Gourmet is also an excellent 'community partner', supporting and hosting fund raising activities for many of the non-profit organizations in Sumner County. Thank you Charlie & staff!!!!
No star rating A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jan 14, 2011
Excellent food!!!! Pizza was one of the best. It was a Friday night so there was a bit of a wait because it was very crowded....but it's because so many people know of the WONDERFUL FOOD!!! We've eaten there several times for lunch, once for brunch but this was the first time we've had dinner there. Will definitely be going back.
A diner from Gallatin, TN Dec 16, 2010
If you would like food in portions, friendly service, and a laid back atmosphere, then Avanti's is the place for you. There is no need to be worried about anything. When you walk into the door, you are family. Thanks to Charlie and all the staff.
A diner from gallatin Dec 4, 2010
it is the greatest, very friendly unbelievable quality of food, as good if not better than all the top restraunts
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Nov 29, 2010
Charlie and Elaine make this a GREAT place for any meal! The food is very good with wonderful flavors! The pasta is amazing! The Godfather sub is the best and the eggs benedict is my fav for breakfast. Always perfect and friendly! Get Charlie talking about football!!! LOVE IT!! They are always so nice!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Oct 30, 2010
I have just recently discovered Avanti Gourmet, and I have to say it's the best kept secret in Hendersonville. The Chicken Noodle Soup is creamy and savory - the best I've ever eaten (sorry, Mom!). I thought I would have to return to the Northeast for real pizza. If you are sick of the chain pizzas and think you have outgrown a love for it, give Charlie's meatball pizza a try - you'll fall in love all over again.
A diner from Gallatin, TN Sep 20, 2010
We hail from the North where good Italian food and New York style delis are easily found. How wonderful to find a place outside Nashville that offered the quality food, family atmosphere, and accessibility that we've missed so. Where else here can you chat with the owner as he dishes up your food? Not at any of the local chains- that's for sure! It's like a slice of home :)
A diner from Goodlettsville, TN Sep 6, 2010
I ate with my family back in July and ever since I have been addicted. Avanti Gourmet is AWESOME! Oh and try their dessert you won't be disappointed.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Sep 3, 2010
Avanti Gourmet is the one place we have never had a bad experience. The good is fantastic and a good value. The staff interacts with not only customers, but other employees in a friendly manner you do not see as much anymore. It is our favorite place to eat. - The Fieldens
A diner from White House, TN Aug 14, 2010
I've never been treated as badly as I was treated by the manager today. He was incredibly rude when I tried to use my restraurant.com gift certificate. In fact, he was teribly rude and disrespectful to his staff too! Not only did he refuse the certificate (even though the cashier told me I could use it before we ordered), he actually said he had been ripped off by "those people" too many times to accept it during lunch. Who are "those people?" I've never been there before so he must be talking about people that use the coupons on his website!! He spoke badly about restraurant.com gift certificates and people that use them in front of other customers. When I tried to talk to him about it he walked away. I will never visit this restaurant again.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Aug 4, 2010
There's no comparison! Everywhere we go, my husband compares the food to Avanti Gourmet, and in our travels of the South and along the East Coast, we've yet to eat anything comparable. The staff exceeds all our expectations; it is so rare to find friendly, enthusiastic servers. We enjoy this fine establishment sometimes as many as five times a month. Thank you for your complement to our great community.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jul 28, 2010
The food is good but they need to be cleaner. Would give 4 stars for taste. No gloves, saw the young guy (cook) playing with his laptop and then handling food, ugh. Didn't wash his hands. I would go back but not until they use gloves or get better cleanliness policies.
A diner from Hendersonville Jul 12, 2010
We can't say enough about Charlie and his awesome staff at Avanti Gourmet. From our six year old's favorite Meatball Pizza to our favorite Chicken Marsala. We live so close and yet we only discovered this gem recently. I can't wait to try breakfast, too! Thanks so much Charlie for everything! The Rickards
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Jun 5, 2010
I had never been to this restaurant but after seeing it on Restaurant.com and seeing rave reviews for it I figured I'd buy a Restaurant.com coupon and give this place a try. I went with my husband and another married couple, none of us will ever return.
First upon walking in we were ignored for a rather lengthy amount of time. During that time a waitress walked right by us (nearly colliding with me but yet never said hi or even looked at me). Finally someone came out and sat us then disappeared for a long time. After a rather long wait the woman returned and asked our drink orders. Apparently the "coca-cola" sign on the wall means nothing because they have very few coca-cola drinks, sadly the one taking drink orders wasn't even sure what all was available to drink (even though the menu states to ask server of drinks available). After a while the drinks were brought and we were told our waitress would be out shortly. Two of the sodas had NO syrup, only carbonation, the sweet teas were overly sweet.
While we waited for a long time for any signs of a waitress the person who brought our "drinks" ignored every attempt to get her attention, even when standing feet from us.
We also observed other customers tasting the small portions and making disgusted faces.
As we continued to wait another couple came in, were promptly seated, drinks brought immediately and orders taken immediately.
Finally we decided that we would rather throw away our money spent on the Restaurant.com coupon then to endure another minute of the horrible service and bad food of this place and left.
We will never attempt them again and advise others to stay away.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN May 28, 2010
Tried Avanti Gourmet tonight for the first time and I must say the food is absolutely fantastic! The service is exceptional! My family and I were not expecting to be blown away - but we were! This is by far the best Italian food in the Nashville area! 5 STARS!!! Looking forward to trying breakfast soon. Great job Charlie and staff!
A diner from Hendersonville, TN May 4, 2010
I recently ate here because I was in the mood for something deferent. And different is what I got. I was misfurtuned enough to meet the owner of the establishment. He was sitting next to me reading the paper. When I tryed to make conversation he snapped at me and threatend to throw me out. I had only asked how he liked becoming an entrepreneur. As shocked as I was, I remained there to finish my meal. During that time, I was approached by multiple flies. The bathroom as new as it was, was filthy. The food was ok at best but the following night I was stricken by illness aquired from what i expect was uncooked poultry. I would not recommend this resturant to anyone I want to keep as a friend.
A diner from Hendersonville Feb 11, 2010
Tried to eat here last night (2/10/10) and had terrible service. Arrived at 6:15 and left at 7:20 without eating. Food never arrived, had to ask for our salads and water glasses to be refilled. Waitress ignored us as she served people who had arrived after us their food. She never gave us the opportunity to ask about our food. We were patient and did not make a scene but got up and left without eating. I don't think she cared. I will not go back . I will not recommend this restaurant to anyone.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Dec 19, 2009
Just an average place to eat...Breakfast was just ok, very small menu for breakfast. Would you like eggs or pancakes? That's about it. For the price, Mimi's is the place to go on Sunday. Also, I suspect that the reviews posted here are indeed from the owners. I'm sure this message will have some smart follow up comment. Maybe you should buy the gift certificates?
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Oct 17, 2009
We live in Hendersonville and have dined quite a few times at Avanti Gourmet. My husband is Italian and makes our pasta and sauces. I know the owner is from New York but the food is just mediocre. Some of the food is frozen, a lot is pre-made and sits in the deli counter for who knows how long and the service is just passable. I would have expected Italian bread but instead we have been served brown and serve rolls (like the 12 packs you buy in the grocery store) with dinner that haven't been browned or even warmed. Not much quality for the prices they charge. We keep trying this restaurant in hopes it will improve but have been disappointed so far. Hope things will change because we love having good restaurants close by.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN May 16, 2009
Our favorite restaurant, where we go twice per week. Excellent pastas, boutiful quantities, very friendly staff. The owner, Charlie is the best.
A diner from Hendersonville, TN Mar 20, 2009
We live down Saundersville Road and we sure are lucky to be so close, because we love Avanti Gourmet. Charley and the gang are great and the food is even better. I am Italian, and I promise you my grandmother must have given Charley her recipe for eggplant parmigian. It is absolutely the best I have ever had besides grandma's. We eat here about twice a month. Carraba's can't compare.

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