Our Story – The Pagliacci’s Legacy
Discover the heart and history behind our family-owned restaurant. Each meal is a tradition passed from generation to generation.
The inspiration behind the name Pagliacci’s
Pagliacci is a two-act opera by Ruggero Leoncavallo, premiered in 1892. It is a masterpiece of verismo, an Italian operatic movement that sought to depict real-life drama with intense emotion and raw, passionate story telling. The opera tells the tragic story of a traveling theatre trope, focusing on Canio, the troupe’s leader, who must perform as a clown while grappling with devastating discovery of his wife’s infidelity. The famous aria “Vesti la giubba”, in which Canio bitterly prepares for his performance despite his heartbreak, is one of the most iconic moments in opera history.
Meet the Pagliacci’s Family
Michele Capobianco
Original Owner
Jane Capobianco
Wife & Current Owner
Gianna capobianco
Daughter & Future Owner
The story of Michele Capobianco
Michele Capobianco’s journey in the restaurant industry is a true embodiment of passion, hard work and a deep love for Italian cuisine. Originally from Teggiano, Italy, Mike arrived in Canada at the age of 20 before making his way down to Connecticut to unite with his family. It was there that he had found his calling in the restaurant business, opening his first establishment, alongside his late business partner Tony D’Alto. That restaurant, Holiday Steakhouse (currently known as San Marino Ristorante), was just the beginning of a long and successful career.
Over the years, he became a well respected name in the Connecticut dining scene, owning beloved spots such as Nino’s Trattoria in Waterbury, Pasta Plus in Cheshire, Tartufo in Southbury, and Mamma Lucia’s in New Haven to name a few. His reach extended beyond Connecticut all over the eastern seaboard. When asked what inspired him to build such a successful empire, his answer was simple, “my favorite thing is to go out to eat, so I made it my job.”
Mike’s culinary expertise is rooted in the traditional recipes he learned growing up in Teggiano. His commitment to authentic, flavorful southern Italian is evident in every dish served here. Today, he has passed down his legacy to his wife, as well as his daughter, ensuring that the restaurant remains a family tradition. Every meal at Pagliacci’s carries the warmth, heritage and passion that Mike infused into his life’s work – bringing people together through the love of great food.