Owner and Chef Chris Agharabi worked the at Persimmon under the tutelage of Chef Damian Salvatore. Persimmon is continuously recognized as one of "Bethesda’s Best" restaurants. In 2007 Chris Agharabi and his family found a beautiful and historic waterfront village on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. As Chris said, “Opportunity sometimes strikes when and where you least expect it,” and in 2008 Chris and his wife decided to cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and open Ava’s Pizzeria and Wine Bar, named after their daughter. With the additional talents of Chris Fazio, Ava’s serves a staple of gourmet pizzas featuring locally produced fresh ingredients where possible. An ever-changing mix of entrées and sandwiches are fired in the brick oven on display in the main dining area. Ava’s also features a diverse wine and international beer selection.