Kenny Giambalvo taking the helm of replacement New York Italian restaurant
Fans have a little time to visit before Pazo closes its doors, so make plans accordingly.
After over 20 years in business, Pazzo Ristorante will be saucing its last pasta and closing up shop after the first of next year. The final service will be brunch on New Year’s Day, after which the restaurant and bar will shutter for a full renovation and re-concept, set to open in Spring 2018. It going to be business as usual up until the closure, with the restaurant open regular hours and accepting reservations (with limited operations on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day). The Italian restaurant has been a part of the downtown community for nearly 25 years and wanted to give ample notice to its long-standing patrons. Over the next two months, the staff looks forward to sharing stories with regulars and diners who have celebrated special occasions at Pazzo over the years.
Taking Pazzo’s place, the yet-to-be-named concept will be led by the current executive chef (and Long Island native), Kenny Giambalvo, dishing up old school New York Italian food. Think saucy, melty home cooking, big wines and great service. Kenny was one of the early chefs at Pazzo in the 90s and has worked in a number of Portland’s kitchens over the years.
During the restaurant’s multiple-month closure, Bacchus Bar – the lobby bar inside the adjacent Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland – will have an expanded food menu, including quick-serve breakfast items. Bacchus Bar will still offer its weekday happy hour, with free live music Thursday through Saturday.
Pazzo is located at 627 SW Washington street, downtown.