pacioni’s Pizzeria & Lounge Profile
Jen Absten, new owner of Pacioni’s Restaurant & Lounge, and manager, Amy Saben, recently shared with us how they’re keeping it local, and in the family. Jen purchased Pacioni’s just 18 months ago, after working in the kitchen for several years. She says, “When the former owner asked if I was interested in buying the restaurant and market, I was excited about the opportunity.”
Absten had cooked at Cafe Europa, and then was a stay-at-home mom for several years until returning to the workforce a few years ago, landing in the Pacioni’s kitchen. Cooking has always played a role in family celebrations, and it was with that in mind Absten hired cousin Amy Saben to manage the restaurant. Both women shared how excited they are to work together, and to have their children share in the effort.
Pacioni’s has been a downtown Mount Vernon business for almost three decades, celebrating 30 years in 2020. Local business partnerships are a part of that success. “We have great relationships with downtown businesses. The Lincoln Theatre is an excellent example. We offer Lincoln Members a 10% discount on their bill. Guests can grab a bite to eat, and then walk the half-block to see a show. It’s a great way to enjoy an evening downtown,” says Absten. Pacioni’s also recently partnered with Shambala Bakery, adding their gluten-free crust to the menu for guests that are avoiding gluten. Pacioni’s feature local wineries and breweries, sharing what the greater Skagit Valley has to offer through bottle and tap. Absten says, “We love working with other businesses in our community to support each other and look forward to adding more to our menu.”
The decision to transition the Pacioni’s Market to Pacioni’s Lounge came from an immediate need for more seating. “We always had people standing around the door waiting for tables, so we decided to convert the market into Pacioni’s Lounge, adding more space and a bar area where guests can enjoy a cocktail, watch a game, and share a pizza,” says Absten. Additionally, the renovation of Pacioni’s Lounge has created a new venue for private parties downtown. From Paint & Sip events, business meetings, and anniversary or birthday parties, Pacioni’s Lounge is an intimate space to dine, sip, and celebrate.
Pacioni’s recently added catering services, offering a selection of appetizers, calzones, lasagna, salads, and pastas, well-suited to both large events and small intimate gatherings. Their catering business has grown through word-of-mouth, as happy customers and their guests have boosted demand for Pacioni’s delicious, fresh Italian offerings to celebrate corporate events, birthdays, weddings, fundraisers, and anniversaries. The Pacioni’s team can either simply deliver the order, or stay through an event, providing service and clean up after.
Visit Pacioni’s and enjoy the warm atmosphere Jen, her staff, and family cultivate to share their love of food, entertaining, community, and family. Whether you are looking for a family dining experience, a sophisticated spot to share an appetizer and cocktail with friends, or need help feeding a large crowd, Pacioni’s provides a delicious experience to meet your needs.
Pacioni’s is located at 606 S 1st St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, give them a call at (360) 336-3314, visit their website and facebook pages for their menu, specials, and more information.
