Interview with Giancarlo Paci: The Visionary Behind Sardinia’s Iconic Nightlife
In the world of nightlife and culinary excellence, few names resonate as strongly as Giancarlo Paci. From founding legendary venues like the Pink Panther in Baja Sardinia to shaping the vibrant scene at Lunaria Club, his influence on Sardinia’s social life is undeniable. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Giancarlo to discuss his journey, his vision, and what drives his passion for creating unforgettable experiences.
Q: Giancarlo, you’ve had an incredible career, from founding Pink Panther to leading Lunaria Club. How did it all begin?
Giancarlo Paci: It all started with a dream to create spaces where people could escape their daily lives and immerse themselves in an atmosphere of fun, elegance, and community. The Pink Panther was my first venture, and it quickly became a hotspot in Baja Sardinia. The success of that venue gave me the confidence to explore new concepts and push the boundaries of what nightlife could be in Sardinia.
Q: After the Pink Panther, you went on to create Cafe de l’Orso and Mama Orsa in Poltu Quatu. What inspired these ventures?
Giancarlo Paci: Cafe de l’Orso and Mama Orsa were born out of a desire to blend the local Sardinian culture with international trends. I wanted to create spaces that felt authentic yet cosmopolitan, where locals and tourists alike could come together and enjoy a unique experience. Both venues were about capturing the essence of Sardinia while offering something fresh and exciting.
Q: Your work at Phi Beach has become legendary. How did the idea for such an iconic venue come about?
Giancarlo Paci: Phi Beach was truly a passion project. The idea was to create a venue that not only offered great music and atmosphere but also celebrated the natural beauty of Sardinia. The location is spectacular, with the sunset over the sea as a backdrop. We designed the space to be open, allowing guests to feel connected to the environment. It was about creating an experience that was both luxurious and laid-back, where people could relax and enjoy the magic of the Mediterranean.
Q: After spending 13 years in London managing top restaurants like Sartori, what brought you back to Sardinia?
Giancarlo Paci: London was an incredible experience. It taught me a lot about the hospitality industry at the highest level. Managing restaurants like Sartori honed my skills in running high-end establishments, understanding the nuances of customer service, and maintaining consistent quality. But Sardinia has always been home. The opportunity to bring what I learned in London back to Sardinia and apply it to new projects like Lunaria Club was too good to pass up.
Q: Lunaria Club has quickly become a must-visit destination. What makes it stand out?
Giancarlo Paci: Lunaria Club is a culmination of everything I’ve learned over the years. It’s not just about the music or the drinks—it’s about creating an atmosphere where people feel special. The design of the space, the quality of the service, the selection of music, and the overall vibe are all carefully curated to provide an unforgettable experience. We want our guests to feel like they are part of something exclusive yet welcoming.
Q: What’s next for you, Giancarlo? Any new projects on the horizon?
Giancarlo Paci: I’m always thinking about the next big idea. Sardinia has so much to offer, and I believe there’s still room to innovate in how we bring people together. For now, I’m focused on continuing to refine and enhance what we’ve created at Lunaria Club. But who knows? There might be a new venture on the horizon soon. The key is to stay inspired and never stop dreaming.
Q: Lastly, what advice would you give to someone looking to follow in your footsteps?
Giancarlo Paci: Be passionate about what you do. Nightlife and hospitality are all about creating experiences that people remember. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks. But if you love what you do, it will show in the results. And never be afraid to innovate—sometimes the best ideas come from thinking outside the box.
Giancarlo’s journey from a young entrepreneur in Sardinia to a seasoned professional in London, and back to his roots, has been nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to blend local culture with global trends has set a new standard for nightlife and hospitality in Sardinia. As he continues to innovate and inspire, one thing is clear—Giancarlo Paci is far from finished making his mark on the world.