A long‑awaited Italian restaurant is inching closer to reality in Moncks Corner, where a South Florida transplant with deep Italian roots is working to bring what he calls “true restaurant dining” to a town he believes is hungry for it. (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)
MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — A long‑awaited Italian restaurant is inching closer to reality in Moncks Corner, where a South Florida transplant with deep Italian roots is working to bring what he calls “true restaurant dining” to a town he believes is hungry for it.
Giacobbe Scotto, owner of the upcoming Giacobbe’s Pizzeria & Trattoria, says the project has been two years in the making — slowed by construction challenges, permitting delays, and the complexities of renovating one of the town’s most recognizable historic buildings. But despite the setbacks, he says he’s determined to deliver something special.
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“I realized this town needed more ‘true restaurants’ instead of chains and fast food,” Scotto said. “So I figured it would be a great spot for me to start cooking dishes that I’m sure people here will love.”
PICTURED: Giacobbe Scotto stands in front of his “coming soon” sign. (CREDIT: Giacobbe Scotto)
From Italy to Moncks Corner
Scotto was born in Italy and moved to the United States at 19, spending more than a decade in South Florida before relocating to Berkeley County to be closer to his wife’s family. Opening a restaurant, he says, has been a dream rooted in his heritage.
He plans to offer a full trattoria‑style menu, such as veal, chicken, fish, pasta, steak, and of course, pizza with a focus on generous portions, high‑quality ingredients, and prices he believes should remain accessible.
“Italian food should be affordable,” he said. “I’ll focus on quality and great portions.”
Adding to the authenticity, Scotto says his mother will occasionally travel from Italy to contribute ideas and inspiration. “Me and my wife will make sure to give this town some true Italian food made with love,” he said.
The new restaurant will be located at 108 E. Railroad Avenue in Moncks Corner. (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)
A Historic Building, a Slow Process
The restaurant is taking shape inside the former Williams Farm Supply store, a structure the town asked him to preserve for its historical character. Scotto says he supports the vision — but the renovation has been anything but simple.
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“Construction has been challenging due to the remodeling of the Williams feed store,” he said. “The town was very clear about wanting to keep that historical look, which we love, but in order to get it done, we have to be very patient and give the builder the time it all takes.”
PICTURED: Giacobbe Scotto and his wife, Rachel, in Italy. They recently became first-time parents. (CREDIT: Giacobbe Scotto)
As work on the building continues, Scotto is also settling into a new role at home: fatherhood. He and his wife recently welcomed their first child, adding a joyful milestone to an already busy season.
“It’s been a lot of weight on my shoulders,” he said. “These delays are definitely making it hard — mentally and financially. We are staying positive and we are super excited, though.”
CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer
A Family‑Friendly Vision
When the restaurant finally opens, it will include more than indoor dining. Scotto is planning an outdoor area with benches and children’s entertainment — a space where families can relax while kids play nearby.
The goal, he says, is to create a place that feels like home.
PICTURED: One of Scotto’s delicious meal creations. With his mother’s help, he says he is still perfecting the menu for his future restaurant. (CREDIT: Giacobbe Scotto)
Opening Date Still Uncertain
After two years of waiting, Scotto says he still can’t offer an opening date. But he’s hopeful the finish line is in sight.
“Hopefully soon enough we will be up and running,” he said.
For now, Moncks Corner residents will have to wait a little longer — but the promise of handmade Italian dishes, a family‑run kitchen, and a revitalized historic building is already stirring anticipation.
Dining and Cooking