Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

Where Italian and French Traditions Meet a World-Class Wine List

Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy occupies the ground floor of the Penn Lofts on Pennsylvania Street in Lawrence, Kansas, and it operates with a clarity of purpose that sets it apart: bring serious wine culture to the American heartland, pair it with honest, handcrafted food, and teach people something along the way.

The wine list earned a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence — recognition that reflects genuine depth and curation. With over 400 selections available by the glass, the list is not merely long; it is designed to be explored, whether through a guided tasting flight, a monthly wine club selection, or a full multi-course wine dinner.

The Food: House-Made Pasta at the Center

The kitchen anchors the Italian side of the menu in house-made pasta, crafted each week by Michael Kirkendoll. Dishes rotate with the seasons and are announced via social media — recent menus have featured Ravioli Quattro Formaggi, Pappardelle al cinghiale, and Gnocchi with Spiced Lamb. Friday pop-up nights shift the format, spotlighting a single dish — from braised pork shoulder to a P/V Burger — alongside discounted three-wine exploration flights with guided tasting notes. Premium charcuterie, a rotating cheese selection, locally-made desserts, and high-end cocktails round out the table.

Thursday evenings occasionally give way to four-course prix-fixe dinners, a format that brings the French and Italian traditions of the menu into sharper focus alongside carefully matched wines.

Academy, Travel, and Private Events

The "Academy" in the name is not decorative. Pane e Vino runs guided wine classes and tastings, organizes wine tours abroad, and offers consulting services — making it as much an educational platform as a restaurant. Private events and catering are available on nights outside the regular schedule, and the space accommodates intimate gatherings with the same attention to wine that defines the public evenings.

Reservations are required for all services, though walk-ins are welcome when space allows.