Michael Rolchigo’s culinary journey is steeped in both rigorous training and deep-rooted family traditions. He earned dual degrees in Culinary and Pastry Arts from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. His résumé includes New York City’s Gramercy Tavern, New Jersey’s Frog and the Peach, and the Grand Summit Hotel. In 2001, he brought his talents to South Florida, where he was the Executive Chef at the Players Club in Wellington and Jupiter Island Grill, and later founded the acclaimed Krave in Tequesta—earning top ratings from the Palm Beach Post for food and service, as well as Vita Nova’s Top Chef honors in 2010 and 2012. Upon selling his award winning restaurant Krave in Tequesta in July of 2017 Chef Michael started a Hot sauce company which he still operates. After 5 years Chef Rolchigo returned to his roots both literally and figuratively with Tavolena.
Menu That Marries Past and Present
The menu reflects a delicate balance of tradition and innovation. Drawing directly from Lena’s own recipes, favorites such as pork spiedini, meatballs, and hearty Sunday sauce showcase comfort, authenticity, and modern flair. Ingredients are thoughtfully sourced to emphasize flavor, texture, and seasonality, ensuring each bite tells a story—one that honors the past while embracing the future.
A Welcoming, Elegant Ambiance
Designed by Chef Rolchigo’s wife, Lisa, Tavolena’s aesthetic combines Roman-inspired architecture with inviting finishes, creating an atmosphere that’s both upscale and unpretentious. With various seating areas—including bar/lounge, bakery seating, and private dining at Lena’s Table—the restaurant accommodates everything from casual gatherings to celebratory meals.
Tavolena Sandwich & Bakery
Located right next door to Tavolena Restaurant, the Tavolena Sandwiches Bakery extension carries forward the family-centric ethos in a more laid-back, everyday context. From artisanal breads to fresh sandwiches and house-made gelato, guests can enjoy a slice of the Tavolena spirit Monday through Saturday, 11 am to 4 pm.
Practical Details
Tavolena Restaurant welcomes guests Tuesday through Saturday, 5:00 pm–10:00 pm, for an elegant dining experience. Located at 185 E Indiantown Road, Suite 123, Jupiter, FL, the restaurant offers private parking and accepts reservations via phone (561-972-7228) or OpenTable. Payment options include AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa.
Why Tavolena Stands Out
In a culinary landscape filled with Italian eateries, Tavolena distinguishes itself through its unforgettable narrative: a chef paying homage to his matriarch by placing her real table at the heart of his restaurant. Each meal is an invitation to join a legacy of love, family, and Italian tradition—while experiencing Chef Rolchigo’s distinction for culinary excellence.
Whether you’re enjoying a multi-course dinner at the main dining room, savoring a midday sandwich, pastry and gelato at the bakery, or reserving the intimate Lena’s Table for a private meal, Tavolena offers a sensory and emotional journey that’s as meaningful as it is delicious.
We welcome you, Chef Michael and Lisa Rolchigo, to Tavolena—where food and family nourish the soul.
Dining and Cooking