Papa Joey’s, Blanco’s beloved Italian restaurant, is opening their spacious new location at 306 Pecan on Tuesday, January 17. Located on the east side of Courthouse Square, in the building that housed Pecan Street Cafe and Oso’s over the years, the restaurant now has quite a bit more space but hasn’t sacrificed the quaint atmosphere for which it’s known.

Joey Antonino, owner of Papa Joey’s, opened his original restaurant on 4th Street on Veterans Day 2007. Joey recently bought his new building and has dramatically remodeled the interior of the structure.

“It’s the same crew, same equipment, and the food’s going to be the same,” adds Joey.

The restaurant is available to host parties and meetings in a beautiful, private dining room overlooking Bindseil Park and the co-champion for the oldest live oak tree in Blanco County. Taking advantage of the added space, Papa Joey’s will have a sports bar area. Catering is also a new dining option and the restaurant has added gluten-free items to the original menu, including gluten-free pizza.

“We’re family-run,” says Joey. His sons Joey and Chris will be stepping in in a year or two to give him a break. Joey also has further plans for the future, including more improvements to the building and a lunch buffet with a daily theme.

Papa Joey’s new hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30am to 9pm and will open on Sundays in the future.

Come see the charming new Papa Joey’s venue and enjoy their fantastic cuisine on Tuesday, January 17.

Mary Johnston and Charles Willgren contributed to this story.