Underbelly Hospitality announced that Jeff Potts – whose experience with the hospitality group includes Underbelly, One Fifth, UB Preserv, and most recently, Georgia James – has been named executive chef of Pastore. Inspired by coastal Italian cuisine, Pastore will open this June at 1203 Dunlavy St. in Regent Square.
“Jeff is an extraordinary chef, and has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to delivering seasonality, technique and thoughtfulness – all of which define the ethos of Underbelly Hospitality,” said Nina Quincy, Director of Operations for Underbelly Hospitality. “Pastore will be far different from our existing concepts, but we are excited to usher in this new era for our hospitality group through a coastal Italian dining experience.”
A Houston-native, Potts’ love of seafood was inspired by his upbringing in Southeastern Florida, where he spent his days at the beach and was exposed to the fresh flavors of Carribean and Latin American cuisines. When Potts returned to Houston to finish his studies at the University of Houston, he pivoted and pursued his life-long passion for the culinary arts. Potts quickly ascended the ranks in kitchens across the city, including James Beard semifinalist Helen Greek Food & Wine, Shun Japanese Kitchen and 93’ Til. Prior to being named executive chef of Pastore, the Underbelly Hospitality alum served as sous chef of Georgia James, also in Regent Square.
“Seafood has been a recurring theme throughout my life and career, and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to unite my love of seafood and seasonal cooking at Pastore,” said Potts. “We’re still working on the menu, but you can expect crudos, whole roasted fish and even flatbreads, an homage to the kitchen’s hearth. Working across different Underbelly restaurants was one of the highlights of my career, and I’m honored and excited for the chance to open Pastore.”
A counterbalance to its neighbor, Georgia James, Pastore’s seafood-driven menu will span sharable plates and entrees to encourage a communal dining experience. Designed by Houston-based architecture and interior design firm Montgomery Roth, Pastore’s design will take cues from Italian gardens, emphasizing serenity, relaxation and beauty throughout. The antithesis of all existing Underbelly Hospitality concepts, Pastore’s interior will embrace femininity, accentuated by lighter colors, florals and brass accents throughout. Like Georgia James, plans for Pastore include a rooftop patio that will open at a later date.
