Little reset
Butterfly, best menswear boutiques, Mother Wolf, Spacca Tutto, Dodgers in Toronto, La Quinta Resort and Spa, MORE
WORK • Thursday Routine
Jab and move
GIANCARLO PAGANI • founder, Pagani Projects (MXO, Dream Rooftop, Miznon LA) • managing partner, Mother Wolf Group (Mother Wolf LA, Bar Avoja)
Neighborhood you work in: Hollywood
Neighborhood you live in: Hollywood Hills
It’s Thursday morning. What’s the scene at your workplace?
It kicks off early with a serious sweat session, either boxing at Fortune’s Gym or a workout in my at-home gym. I’ll knock that out first thing, then I’m home for a quick protein shake and to get my son Luca ready for school. Once I drop him off, the day really starts.
Mornings are filled with calls, always. Thursdays typically mean a lot of strategy: Which deals are in motion, where our focus needs to be, how each business is doing heading into the weekend. There’s a standing call with our PR team, leadership check-ins across all our locations, a rundown on upcoming reservations, events, who’s coming in — we’re looking at the full state of play.
What’s on the agenda for today?
Most nights, I’m hosting guests or dining at one of our restaurants — four to five nights a week, minimum. When I go, it’s never just to eat. I get there about 30 minutes before the guests I’m meeting so I can walk the floor, talk to the team, and give feedback in real time. I’m looking at everything: the vibe, the pacing, the little things that shape the guest experience. Then, after service, I’ll follow up with my employees on anything we flagged. Notes get turned into action. I’m big on one-on-one convos — less management by checklist or emails, more real connection.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
If I’ve got some time to sneak in a casual stop, I love hitting The Benjamin. It’s always in rotation.
How about a little leisure or culture?
I just converted my garage into a home gym dubbed The Iron Parade. It’s been great, especially because it lets me bring Luca into that world. I want him to see fitness as a daily part of life from a young age. I also train at Fortune Gym, a classic old-school boxing spot in Hollywood. The energy there is great. It’s a bit of a sanctuary for me.
What was your last great vacation?
I was in Miami in December for eight full days with minimal meetings, which for me is a rarity, and a bit of a miracle. I stayed at Soho House, which I always enjoy. I used to work in Miami, so going back to just enjoy the food, beach, and scene was next level. I made a point to hit up Macchialina, Chef Michael Pirolo’s place and still my favorite restaurant out there. Next up for travels: Nayarit, Mexico. I’m taking Luca down there for a little reset. I can’t wait.
What store or service do you always recommend?
For clothing, I’m all about Aimé Leon Dore. I think almost my entire wardrobe is from them these days. Obsessed. And yes, skinny jeans are officially out.
What’s a recent big-ticket purchase you love?
I recently got a Leica camera, and I’m in love with it. I’ve always been into photography — there’s something so grounding about it. The Leica’s just a beautiful piece of gear.
Photo: Wonho Frank Lee
ASK FOUND
Three PROMPTS for which we seek your immediate attention:
What’s your favorite Los Angeles spa (and treatment)?
Who do you trust to do your eyebrows?
Where’s the best bar to dine alone at in LA?
Hit reply or email found@itsfoundla.com with more answers or questions.
BARS • First Round
Floating above
The Skinny: Perched atop the breezy rooftop pool deck of The Shay in Culver City, Butterfly is the more laid-back sister to José Andrés’s Zaytinya downstairs (temporarily closed after a small fire).