Former pizza eatery transforms its menu, brand

Chad Jeseritz opened Panhandler's Pizza in Kyle in December 2011. The buffet-style pizza restaurant lasted for about nine months before it became apparent that a transformation was needed.

"We decided to change the concept when CiCi's [Pizza] came in," Jeseritz said. "Their prices were a lot lower than ours."

The Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce helped Jeseritz organize a focus group to bring his flailing business back on track.

"We asked what the No. 1 restaurant they would like to see was, and we gave them a list of vibes and recommendations," Jeseritz said. "About 90 percent of them said Italian food, so that's what we did. We did what Kyle wanted."

The new restaurant features a full Italian menu, including pizza, pasta, and the most popular dish, lasagna. Jeseritz said the TVs on the walls and at each booth add to the ambience he is trying to create.

"You go to a five-star Italian restaurant, you don't want to bring your kids, you don't want to be bothered," Jeseritz said. "We want the family atmosphere, and we still want the kids involved."

Jeseritz said Kyle has welcomed Ilario's since opening in October. On a typical weekday, the restaurant goes through 300 to 350 rolls, and on a Friday or Saturday, it is safe to double that number, he said.

Jeseritz, who moved to Kyle in 2010, said the entire menu is a product of his 30 years of experience with cooking. Those who have a meal at Ilario's might notice the crew of cooks never pass an opportunity to add some showmanship to the meal.

"The big aspect that we like is that we cut out the window [in front of the kitchen] so people can come and watch us make it," he said. "We'll flame up the pans and all that."

Jeseritz said he plans to expand the restaurant's menu in 2013 to include his own specialty, seafood.

"I'll bring in some salmon, tilapia, do different stuff," he said.

• 5401 FM 1626, Kyle
• 512-268-3300
• www.facebook.com/IlariosItalianCuisine