Pignetti’s Italian to open in former Phoenix Ballroom in downtown Waco | Local Business News

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Wright’s Built Wright Construction will oversee the completion work.

Austin-based Donnie Johnson will serve as Harrell’s operating partner in Waco. Johnson’s career began in 1991 and has included positions at Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille, Sullivan’s Steakhouse and Baretto.

“I’ve known (Harrell) for a while and we decided to join forces in Waco,” said Johnson. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity. I had a great time meeting people there. Waco still has small town charm and seems like a place to move to. I’m locking a house next week. “

He said he hoped to fill Pignetti’s for lunch, dinner, and brunch.

“In the best case scenario, we will open in late spring, probably in May at the latest,” said Johnson. “We will have new kitchen appliances, a wood-burning stone oven, a nice bar, wine cabinets, an upscale Italian concept.”

Harrell said Waco’s menu might focus more on steaks than its Temple operation, “an Italian steak house but still pignettis.” He saw a couple paying $ 75 for a nice meal with wine, including tax and tip.

Fuller said there are about 5,500 square feet available in addition to pignettis.

“We let the market dictate what is best. We love the idea of ​​another high-end steak restaurant or maybe a Spice Village concept, ”said Fuller, referring to the collection of retail stores in the nearby River Square Center.

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