Mo Pittle to Open Italian Restaurant Panciuto in Hyde Park

September 16, 2026

Mo Pittle plans to open Panciuto on Sept. 15 at 4413 Guadalupe Street in Hyde Park. The new restaurant will be his sixth, following the success of his Jewboy Burgers food truck, which began as a client case study and grew into a full-time operation.

Panciuto centers on classic Italian American dishes served in generous, shareable portions, a style Pittle said reflects meals from his upbringing as the eldest of six and his time on the East Coast. The restaurant name, Panciuto, translates to pot-bellied, and the menu aims to evoke large, comforting family meals.

Menu items include antipasti sized for sharing, such as an Arugula Caprese with thick fresh mozzarella, and Foccacia Pizza Squares available with pepperoni or a marinara-vodka-pesto topping. Entrées highlighted on the menu are Sausage and Mushroom Cavatelli in a light cream sauce, Chicken Parm Alla Vodka, bolognese, a vegetarian 14-layer lasagna, Spaghetti and Meatballs, and tiramisu for dessert.

Pittle described items meant to be hearty and satisfying, and the restaurant will encourage taking leftovers home. He also pointed to small plates that remain light despite their size, such as the airier focaccia bases and crisp edges on some preparations.

The dining room will use a traditional Italian American palette and visual touches intended to feel familiar and homey. Local art from AO5 gallery will hang on the walls and neon signs by Todd Sanders of Relic Roadhouse will be part of the decor, elements Pittle selected to prompt conversation among guests.

Panciuto will start with a curated selection of beers and wines, while a full bar is being developed for a later date. Pittle said he plans to spend time working the floor and talking with diners to foster a relaxed, inclusive environment where people focus on meals and conversation.

Panciuto will operate under Pittle’s neighborhood-focused approach, positioning itself as an affordable, casual option for Hyde Park residents. The restaurant’s Instagram account is @panciuto.atx for updates ahead of the opening.