When the Russell family bought Italianni’s in 2002, Brett, my oldest son, partner, and newly graduated from UT Austin at the time, set about to create a unique and highly enjoyable dining experience that would keep guests coming back not only as customers but as friends, too. Over the years, we have both felt honored to have met so many gracious and extraordinary people. Our original goal was to make every customer feel like guests in our own homes while providing fresh, made from scratch food with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, subtle textures, and hearty portions. But most of all we want you to feel welcomed and to provide you with a dining experience that you will remember for how much you enjoyed not only the food, but the hospitality, too.

Brin Burke hails from Ohio originally but has been a Texan long enough to be called one as evidenced by him saying “hey y’all”. (This was recently pointed out to him by his Ohio friends.) Brin started with Italianni’s (after a couple bumps in the road) as a waiter but his skills and his personality soon led him to the bar first then management. Brin is the one that keeps us and customers all laughing through the daily trials and tribulations of running a restaurant. (He is also a huge Michigan fan.)

Shannon is Texan born and raised, coming from Southlake. She is usually seen walking around with a big smile, and keeps the shifts running smoothly with her mom jokes. Shannon is a diehard Mavs fan, and loves to get selfies with celebrities that visit games in Dallas. She is an excellent Super Bowl party hostess, and an animal lover.