An Old Town institution, Dinotto, closed Thanksgiving Day weekend after 30 years in three neighborhood locations. Though it’s been only a few days since Dinotto’s closure, there’s excitement already building in the space. Gallucci, with pies from a champion member of the U.S. Pizza Team is prepping to bring traditional Neapolitan pies to Old Town. The pizzeria should open in mid-January, just south of North and Wells.

Dinotto also served pizza, but chef Gianni Gallucci will bring his special style to the space. Gallucci is the pizza champion in charge of the new operation. He’s been a consultant, helping to open some of Chicago’s best pizzerias. He didn’t want to mention the stops on his pizza resume, but he’s now ready to open his own restaurant.