Exclusive

Giuliana and Bill Rancic Unveil Name of Their New Chicago Restaurant—and It's...

E! star and hubby announce it will be called RPM Italian and explain why they didn't go with Mama DePandi's

By Marcus Errico Dec 21, 2011 8:00 PMTags
Bill Rancic, Giuliana RancicJamie McCarthy/Getty Images

While she continues to recover from surgery, Giuliana Rancic is already plotting a huge 2012. And one of the highlights no doubt will be next month's grand opening of her and hubby Bill's Italian restaurant in Chicago.

Giuliana has exclusively revealed the name of the new eatery to E! News, and fans might be surprised by their choice...

The restaurant will be called RPM Italian.

The name comes from the last initials of the partners in the venture: the Rancics, chef Doug Psaltis and the Melman siblings, R.J., Jerrod and Molly.

So the big question: Why didn't the E! News host name it Mama DePandi's after her mother—and her mom's famous cuisine?

"As we got further into the planning for the restaurant, we realized that the name Mama DePandi's felt more Old World Italian, and this restaurant is anything but," says Giuliana. "We are very excited to be this close to the opening and can't wait for Chicago to experience the delicious food that Doug has been creating for the menu."

Don't worry, though. Mama DePandi's cooking will be a big part of RPM Italian.

"We've had regular tastings with Chef Doug to nail down the absolute best menu. The food has blown us away and the menu will also feature Mama DePandi's authentic Italian signature dishes," explains Giuliana.

Giuiliana, Bill and Mama DePandi will be regular visitors to the the 10,000 square-foot establishment—along with camera crews for their Style Network show, Giuliana & Bill.

"One of the things I'm most excited about is that my mom will regularly be around at the restaurant so diners will get a chance to have my mama feed them just like she's been feeding me my whole life," explains Giuliana. "She's really been amazing throughout this process giving us ideas and inspiration."

Also expect the servers at RPM Italian to look the part. Giuliana's been busy working behind the scenes putting her Fashion Police skills to work by designing one-of-a-kind, stylish uniforms for restaurant staff.

And, yes, Giuliana is planning to join her partners for the big opening next month.