Beloved Houston Dining Landmark Announces Heartbreaking Closure After 27 Years

Houston staple Paulie's and Camerata is shutting down operations with a last serve in December. The bar-restaurant couple is walking towards closure after operating for 27 years and serving the neighborhood.

Shairin Panwar
Written By Shairin Panwar
News Writer
Annesha
Edited By Annesha
Managing Editor
Longtime Montrose favorites Paulie Patro and Camerata Wine Bar have completed 27 years of operations (Source: Yelp)

Houston restaurants will be experiencing some change as Paulie’s Restaurant and Camerata Wine Bar are both closing down. The restaurant announced on Instagram that its final day of operation will be December 31.

Paulie Patro Bids Farewell After Serving For Over Two Decades

The owner of the restaurant, Paula Petronella, has made the news of the closure public following failed lease talks with the landlord that have resulted in the heart-wrenching announcement.

Petronella announced in an Instagram post that, “After 27 years of serving our much-loved community, it is with a broken heart we announce the closure of Paulie’s Restaurant and Camerata Wine Bar. We are deeply thankful for the patronage and memories made within our walls over the years.”

The Montrose favorite duo will function as usual with the same love, comfort, and commitment until their last day of business. The restaurant has encouraged everyone to visit and make a few more memories together with them before they close the business.

Petronella has looked back at their long journey, expressing gratitude to the employees, customers, and people who have stood by the restaurant all these years. “I could not be more proud of our staff over the years and humbled by our very loyal and loving guests,” he said. Petronella also looked out for his staff, saying, “If you work in the industry and are looking for diligent professionals to fill positions, they will be available beginning January 2026.”

He also urged the community to keep supporting the local businesses in Houston, describing them as “the heartbeat of our town.”

 

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A post shared by Paulie’s (@pauliepetro)

About Paulie Patro

The restaurant began as a small family enterprise in 1998. Bernard and Kathy Petronella started it after saving money from their catering ventures. The restaurant has been named after their son, Paul, who has led the business since 2007, holding the positions of chef, general manager, and operator.

Paul has fully devoted himself to the business after selling out the second unit and concentrating solely on the Westheimer unit. The restaurant has offered genuine Italian comfort food, homemade pasta, and a homey atmosphere, establishing itself as a Montrose favorite.

Over these years, the restaurant has been awarded as the “Best Montrose Neighborhood Restaurant,” while Paul himself has been awarded as the “Most Interesting Man” by the Houston Chronicle.

About Camerata Wine Bar

Camerata Wine Bar has opened up next door. They have a wonderful range of drinks for every occasion, including beer, wine, and cider. All drinks are served by trained sommeliers.

The term Camerata originates with the Florentine Camerata, meaning “room” or “chamber.” Paul desired to bring a taste of his Italian culture to Houston. Camerata Wine Bar emphasized drinks that capture the history behind them and the individuals and locations behind them.

Paulie’s Restaurant and Camerata Wine Bar are leaving Houston after nearly 30 years. They’ve played a significant role in shaping the city’s dining scene. Despite the closure, their legacy will live on across the Houston dining scene. Paul Petronella, the restaurant owner, reflects on the restaurant’s legacy, its community, and a warm farewell.

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Shairin Panwar is a content writer with a background in international affairs, media consulting, and fast-paced newsroom reporting. She has reported on a broad spectrum of topics, including political risk, global trade, cultural trends, and local developments, combining expertise with thorough research. Passionate about international development and human rights, Shairin combines strong research skills with a global perspective to create engaging and thoughtful content.
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