How many times have you enjoyed a bottle of wine at dinner, only to wish you could easily bring it home? Versi Vino in Maple Shade solves this problem with its unique business concept: They’re both a wine bar/restaurant and a wine shop. So you never have to track down your favorite bottle after trying it at dinner.
Owner Christine is passionate about wine. Though she doesn’t have previous restaurant experience or a wine hospitality background, opening Versi Vino is a dream come true. She does have a chemistry background, however, which helps her understand the science of wine.
More From Best of NJ
What to Expect at Versi Vino
Christine believes Maple Shade is the perfect spot for Versi Vino. “There are really no other wine bars in this part of New Jersey,” she says. It’s also close enough that Philadelphia residents can visit, too.
Indoors, Versi Vino seats 48 people at full capacity. “We consider it to be classy with an industrial vibe,” Christine says. “We always wanted it to feel like a comfortable place to be in where people can come in with friends or family and hang out while sampling different wines.”
Seating options include table dining as well as a bar, lounge area, and private room separated by barn doors; a focal feature of the space. “The overall premise of Versi Vino is to make wine more approachable and take the intimidation away,” Christine explains.
Wine, Cheese, & Much More
The menu includes small plates for sharing, such as cheese and charcuterie boards. The boards offer four cheeses and four meats plus extras like pickled onions, fig preserves, and a grainy mustard. “It’s common for couples to come in and order the eight-piece board and make that their meal,” Christine adds. Flatbreads, salad, and grilled shrimp are also hits.
The Versi Vino wine selection changes often, but is chosen so returning patrons can always find a similar taste. “If people fall in love with a wine, they’ll likely not see it again in a couple months,” Christine says. “This is part of the fun and experience.”
Wine is the focus, of course, but they also offer craft beer by the can; as well as zero-proof beverages. The current beer list mostly comes from local NJ breweries, and they also plan to serve cocktails in the future. In addition, they host online and (coming soon) in-person classes and tastings. “Education is a huge part of Versi Vino,” Christine says.
Versi Vino is located at 461 38 West in Maple Shade. Look for them online to learn more.
Versi Vino FAQs
Click here to find the latest restaurants open in New Jersey.
All Photos: © Versi Vino