Environment
Strada is one of my favorite restaurants in Asheville. It’s one of two restaurants owned and operated by Chef Anthony Cerrato and is located in the heart of downtown. From the outside, the restaurant has a simple, understated exterior, but step inside, and you’ll be captivated by its warm and inviting ambiance. I personally love the leather-backed booths and the stunning wine rack that adds to the cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
If anyone in your party has mobility concerns, note that there is additional seating upstairs. I’d recommend mentioning this when making a reservation to ensure a table on the main floor if needed.
Food
Strada specializes in Italian cuisine, which is a personal favorite of mine. If you know me, you know I’ve traveled to Italy and adore authentic Italian food. Strada serves dinner nightly, and while they previously offered weekend brunch, which I had the pleasure of enjoying a time or two, it appears brunch service is not available at this time.
One of the standout aspects of Strada is its commitment to accommodating dietary restrictions, including an extensive gluten-free menu. Many restaurants only offer one or two gluten-free options, or they’re hesitant to adjust dishes. However, Strada takes a more inclusive approach, similar to what I experienced in Italy, where the belief is that food should be enjoyed by all and best shared with others.
I remember my first visit in the summer of 2022. I was there for brunch alone and struck up a conversation with my server about why the restaurant prioritizes gluten-free options. They shared that the chef has a family member who must eat gluten-free, and because of that personal connection, he wanted to ensure others could enjoy delicious Italian food without worry. That thoughtful approach makes dining at Strada feel extra special.
While this is one of my favorite spots, I will say it’s more of a special-occasion restaurant for me, as the prices are on the higher end. Most of my visits have been for birthdays or other celebrations. On occasion, I have treated myself to a solo date for gluten-free pizza, and it was wonderful. That said, every dish I’ve tried has been phenomenal, and I genuinely don’t think you can go wrong with anything on their gluten-free menu. My top recommendations include the gluten-free calamari, the Pig & Fig pizza, and the Tuscan Duck & Figs. And let’s not forget dessert, Strada even makes a gluten-free tiramisu in-house. Just thinking about it has my mouth watering!
Final Thoughts on Strada Italiano
If you’re visiting Asheville, Strada is a must-visit for a delicious, restaurant with awesome gluten-free options. Because of its popularity, I highly recommend making a reservation. Their online reservation platform allows you to select your preferred seating area and note any dietary restrictions in advance, which is a great feature for those with food allergies or sensitivities.
Want more gluten-free Asheville recommendations? Download my free Asheville Travel Guide for restaurants, drinks, and must-do experiences
Find more gluten-free resources, restaurant reviews, and tips here.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in this blog are based on my personal experiences with restaurants offering gluten-free options. While I aim to provide accurate and helpful information, I cannot guarantee that the gluten-free options at these establishments will meet everyone’s needs or expectations. Cross-contact and ingredient changes are always a possibility.
Please exercise your own judgment and diligence when dining out, particularly if you have Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity. I am not liable for any adverse effects that may occur from consuming food at any of the restaurants mentioned in this blog. Always confirm with the restaurant staff to ensure your meal meets your specific dietary requirements.
Your safety is your responsibility—eat smart and stay gluten-free!
If you would benefit from individualized support navigating Celiac Disease, book a free discovery call here.
