Chef Cary McDowell joins culinary team at Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria

The St. Louis restaurant group will also debut a new brunch menu

Former Wright’s Tavern executive chef Cary McDowell has joined the culinary team at Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria, which has three locations in St. Louis.

McDowell will work under chef-owner Katie Lee and longtime culinary director Jake Sanderson. 

“When Cary came to me about the possibility of working together, I knew he would be perfect,” Lee said in a statment. “With Cary on board, Jake can focus on the overall culinary future we’re curating together. Cary’s passion for creating classic dishes created with flawless perfection is exactly what we’re looking for as part of our new chef collective. Having chefs of this caliber working together on a shared vision to bring our guests an incredible experience gives me chills. I’m excited for what the future holds.” 

You may also recognize McDowell from his time at Winslow’s Home, The Crossing, Liluma and Pi Pizzeria. 

“I’ve always been a fan of what Katie and Jake created,” McDowell said in the statement. “I’m excited to join them on this journey to help them take their vision to new levels while delivering on the thoughtful, hand-crafted Italian favorites that make Katie’s such a special experience.”

To begin in his new role, McDowell has helped overhaul the weekend brunch menu with new offerings such as fig and pancetta French toast, polenta biscuits and sausage gravy and more.  You can try the new items at the brunch menu launch this weekend on Sept. 21 and 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at all three locations: Ballpark Village, Rock Hill and Town & Country. Additionally, there will be a launch party on Sept. 28 at the Ballpark Village location from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. that will feature the new menu, as well as a mini boutique experience and live music.

“Brunch is just the beginning,” Lee stated. “Our culinary collective will take our brand to places we’ve only been able to dream of until now. We can do so much more for our guests – more seasonal options and experiences, but still with the thoughtful and mindful hand-made touch we’re known for, seven days a week.