Italy’s culinary traditions are renowned for their rich flavors, artistry, and celebration of quality ingredients. At Bank+Vine, we’re bringing this experience to life with our upcoming Italian Dinner Event, a five-course journey through the heart of Italian cuisine.
Let’s explore the traditional courses of a plated Italian dinner and how they come together to create a truly special dining experience. Italians traditionally have a five course dinner to have a slower and more leisurely dining experience. Here is how the Italians do it and how we plan to recreate it!
The Courses of a Traditional Italian Dinner
Antipasti
The meal begins with antipasti, or “before the meal.” These small, flavorful bites set the tone for the courses to come. Antipasti often feature cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables, offering a tantalizing preview of the flavors ahead.
Bank+Vine’s Take: Panzanella
A fresh and vibrant start to the meal, this classic Tuscan salad features romaine, basil, tomato, red onion, croutons, red wine vinegar, and EVOO. The perfect balance of crisp textures and bold flavors prepares the palate for the courses to follow.
Primi
The primi course introduces a warm, hearty dish, typically pasta, risotto, or soup. This is where Italian chefs shine with regional specialties like creamy risottos or handmade pasta dishes. Primi is designed to be comforting and satisfying, preparing the palate for the next course.
Bank+Vine’s Take: Charcuterie
Enjoy an artisan cheese and meat board paired with olives and crackers. This course offers a taste of Italy’s finest cured meats and cheeses, showcasing the art of simple yet refined ingredients.
Contorni
Served alongside the secondi, contorni are side dishes that highlight fresh vegetables or starches. Think roasted potatoes, sautéed greens, or a crisp salad—all meant to complement the main dish without overshadowing it.
Bank+Vine’s Take: Seafood Pappardelle
Dive into a bowl of garlic tarragon pasta topped with a medley of mussels, clams, shrimp, aleppo, and parsley. This hearty and aromatic dish is a celebration of fresh seafood and delicate pasta.
Dolci
No Italian meal is complete without a sweet ending. The dolci course offers desserts like tiramisu, panna cotta, or gelato. It’s the perfect way to close the evening with a touch of indulgence.
Bank+Vine’s Take: Pistachio + Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
End the evening on a sweet note with a pistachio and vanilla bean panna cotta. Silky, creamy, and delightfully rich, it’s the ideal finale for this culinary journey.
Limited Seats Available
To reserve your spot, call 570-901-4040 today. Reservations can only be made by speaking directly with our Host or Event Coordinator!
Visit the Bank+Vine events page for more information and to stay updated!
Learn more about our other restaurants and venues at the Friedman Hospitality Group website.
