Fifty Years of Italian
WHO KNEW 50 YEARS AGO that the famous Tower of the Americas would not be the only San Antonio landmark to arise from HemisFair ’68? At that great World Expo, Joe Cosniac came to sell Belgian waffles. He also met another ambitious young man named Nick Pacelli.
After the Fair concluded, the two budding entrepreneurs decided to open an Italian restaurant in a former barbershop on McCullough Avenue, near downtown San Antonio. “It was just a box,” recalls Joe.
That “box” was Paesanos, and it was a neighborhood joint, a family bistro and social club. It quickly developed a reputation for exceptional food — its signature, buttery Shrimp Paesano dish was a long way from HemisFair waffles — as well as impeccable service. Dining there was a true experience: an owner who remembered your name, a social place where everyone could share a meal.
After opening the first Paesanos in February 1969, Cosniac expanded his restaurant group across the state and the country, but he has always considered San Antonio home. Paesanos is as much a part of San Antonio’s history as the Alamo.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE PAESANOS! Been a customer since it was on McCullough! Today I had a so beautiful birthday lunch there!
Thank you so much!
With respect …,
~Sylvia C.
To commemorate its 50th anniversary, we have selected a very special wine to celebrate the occasion at our three locations, Paesanos Lincoln Heights, Paesanos 1604 and Paesanos Riverwalk.
Presenting our 50th anniversary edition Cabernet Sauvignon, a classic wine that pairs perfectly with another set of classics — many of the beloved dishes on the Paesanos’ menu. Pour a glass and raise a toast to the past fifty years, and another fifty to come. Saluti!
You just can’t ever beat the Shrimp Paesano!
–Jackie B.
#Paesanos50
“Thank You San Antonio and Texas for an incredible 50 years. What a journey… made possible by your indelible support and loyalty, joined with our remarkable staff’s effort and dedication. Thank you to all generations who have walked through our doors, from the beginning to the present. Our Paesanos’ family is extremely grateful and honored. Happy 50th to all.”
– Joseph Cosniac
Founder
Paesanos Restaurant Group