Giancarlo Pagani of Mother Wolf: Building Restaurants That Endure

#111. Josh talks with Giancarlo Pagani, the restaurateur behind Los Angeles favorite Mother Wolf, about what it takes to create restaurants that stand the test of time. Giancarlo shares how his early exposure to hospitality through his father—a longtime maitre d—shaped his deep respect for service, culture, and consistency. They explore the creative and operational balance behind his projects, the role of design in crafting memorable spaces, and how thoughtful partnerships and meticulous attention to detail help turn a single concept into a lasting institution. This conversation offers an inside look at what truly defines longevity and excellence in the modern dining world.

Links and resources 📌

Visit meez: https://www.getmeez.com

Follow meez on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getmeez

Follow Josh: @joshlsharkey or Linkedin here

Follow Giancarlo: @gc_pagani and @paganiprojects

Chapters

• 1:55 Discussing Restaurant Design and Concept
• 3:29 Entrepreneurial Journey and Partnerships
• 6:04 Building Successful Restaurant Brands
• 14:58 The Importance of Design in Restaurants
• 22:27 Mentorship and Influences
• 25:09 Managing Multiple Projects and Prioritization
• 32:36 Structuring Deals with F&B Partners
• 35:43 Challenges in Partnership Deals
• 39:38 Consistency in Restaurant Operations
• 43:29 Developing Talent from Within
• 50:40 Balancing Work and Family
• 57:27 Future Business Ventures