SAVORING JUPITER:

Nestled in Jupiter, Florida, Tavolena, shines as a beacon of inventive cuisine and refined taste. At the heart of this extraordinary dining experience is Chef

Michael Rolchigo, whose deep passion for food and unwavering dedication to his craft have turned Tavolena into a must-visit destination. With each dish, Chef Michael offers diners the opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of his heritage, blending tradition with modern flair in a way that can only be described as culinary magic. 

Raised in Utica, New York, Chef Michael discovered his love for cooking as a young boy, living just downstairs from his Italian grandmother, Lena Bello. He spent countless hours at her table, watching her create traditional meals for the family, internalizing her passion for food and the joy of bringing people together. Every meal Lena prepared was self-taught, rooted in her family’s traditions, and those recipes are still alive at Tavolena today. In fact, the restaurant is named after his beloved grandmother, whose influence extends far beyond the name – the private dining room features the very table where Chef Michael learned to cook in her upstairs apartment.

Chef Michael’s formal journey in the culinary world began when he attended the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, earning double degrees in both Culinary and Pastry Arts. His time in the industry, from the Players Club in Wellington to the acclaimed Krave in Tequesta, cemented his reputation as a talented and innovative chef. Tavolena is the culmination of years of honing his craft and a tribute to the familial roots that sparked his culinary passion.

At Tavolena, the menu celebrates Chef Michael’s Italian heritage, offering modern interpretations of Mediterra- nean and Italian classics, many of which are inspired by his grandmother’s original recipes. Guests are treated to the famous "Sunday Sauce" and her signature meatballs, while her handwritten pastry recipes live on through indulgent treats like the almond cookie, a dessert that  transports diners straight to Italy with its delicate flavor.

“Cooking is all about love and simplicity,” Chef Michael says.

The restaurant’s décor, masterfully designed by Chef Michael’s wife, Lisa, mirrors the attention to detail found in each dish. Lisa, a talented designer, meticulously researched and incorporated elements that reflect both the Mediterranean and Roman influences behind Tavolena. The bar features stunning herringbone tile, a nod to the herringbone streets of ancient Rome, while books – reminiscent of those first bound by the Romans – decorate the shelves. Snake sconces hover over black-and-white photographs, adding a touch of Roman mythology, believed to ward off evil spirits. Every corner of the restaurant tells a story, creating an atmosphere as rich as the food it serves. 

There’s a lot of love and magic woven into Tavolena, from the recipes passed down by Chef Michael’s grandmother to the personal touches honoring his late father, who lived to see the restaurant open before passing just three weeks after its grand debut. His proud father's dream of seeing Tavolena come to life became a reality, and the warm, familial energy that flows through the restaurant is palpable to every guest.

One of the standout features at Tavolena is the private dining room, an intimate, private dining experience where diners can sit at the same table that once graced his grandmother’s home. Here, guests can enjoy a curated meal while experiencing the nostalgia and love that inspired Chef Michael’s journey. For the very lucky, there are even two VIP seats in the kitchen, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the culinary magic in action.

Signature dishes like Chicken Riggies, a comfort food from Utica, and the luxurious Tagliatelle al Tartufo, in-sea- son made with house-made pasta, truffles, and Parmesan, are just a few highlights of the menu. During truffle season, guests are treated to tableside white truffle shavings by Chef Michael himself, donned in white gloves.
Tavolena’s ambiance strikes a perfect balance between modern elegance and welcoming warmth, making it an ideal spot for intimate dinners or celebratory gatherings. Chef Michael’s wife, Lisa, oversees the front of the house, ensuring that every guest feels like part of the Tavolena family, while the attentive staff completes the unforgettable dining experience.

Reservations at Tavolena are highly sought-after, often requiring a four-week wait during peak season, but for those who secure a table, it’s well worth the effort. “Our goal is to create lasting memories,” Chef Michael shares. “We want people to leave with not just a full stomach, but a full heart.”



With exciting plans for the future, including new culinary offerings, Chef Michael continues to innovate while staying deeply connected to his roots. Tavolena is more than just a restaurant – it’s a testament to the love, passion, and dedication that can be found in every dish, infused with the spirit of family and the culinary traditions that inspired it all.