About Us

Paulie’s was founded on mom-n-pop principles. Bernard and Kathy Petronella opened the restaurant in 1998 after saving for years through catering work. They named the restaurant after their son, Paul, who was 20 years old at the time. Paul worked off and on at the restaurant while completing college. Paul took over the family business in 2007. After selling the second location at Holcombe & Kirby, Paul dedicated himself to make the original location at Westheimer the best he possibly could. He is a very hands-on owner, serving as Chef, General Manager, and Operator.

Houston Press named Paulie’s “Best Montrose Neighborhood Restaurant”, and Paul was listed among Houston’s “Most Interesting Men” by the Houston Chronicle; the list includes entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and professional athletes. Paul has dedicated his life to making Paulie’s the best it can be for its guests and staff: the finest authentic Italian food, housemade pasta, fresh, high-quality coffee, and a wine bar for the sommelier in all of us.