Tip your hat to Garland, where diversity and cowboy culture blend

Hit the Road

Photo courtesy of Visit Garland

Here's a fun fact for your next trivia night: If you own a Resistol or Biltmore hat, it was likely made in Garland, the cowboy hat capital of Texas.

You'll find more than 10-gallons here, though, thanks to a diverse community that pours its culture and history into not only unique shopping but also restaurants, arts, and a whole year's worth of fun festivals and cool celebrations.

Here's a glimpse at what else is waiting in this North Texas city:

The great outdoors
Take a stroll among the wildflowers at the Spring Creek Forest Preserve or cycle your way through the Rowlett Creek Bike Trails. Ready to try four wheels? Execute an ollie or a kickflip at The Jon Comer Skatepark.

For something less heart-pounding, perfect your swing on 63 holes of championship-caliber golf over three courses at Firewheel Golf Park.

Experience the ultimate in lake life — if even only for a day — at Lake Ray Hubbard, which spans 21,000 acres and is great for fishing, skiing, and boating.

Let's celebrate
No matter what time of year you visit, there's bound to be a festival or other special event happening.

The beloved Garland Guzzler 0.5K race and Oktoberfest happen on September 23, 2023.

In October, get ready to experience an unforgettable day of festivities at the grand opening of the Downtown Garland Square on October 14 from 10 am-9 pm. As the sun sets, prepare to be wowed by a special musical appearance from the one and only LeAnn Rimes. It’s a day of unity, culture, and fun, marking a new era for the beloved Downtown Garland Square.

Later in the month, stop by for the Wheels of Hope Car Show on October 21, 2023.

Honor departed loved ones on November 1's Día de Los Muertos, then usher in the holiday spirit with A Garland Christmas on December 7, 2023.

In the New Year, Big Art Day arrives on April 1, 2024, or enjoy some tunes when the heart of Downtown Garland Square comes alive with the vibrant rhythms of live music all year-round. Want more music? The Asian Music Festival is set for May 18, 2024.

Celebrate Black culture with the Juneteenth celebration on June 15, 2024, at Audubon Park and then America's birthday during the Star-Spangled Spectacular on June 30, 2024, at Firewheel Town Center.

Get ready to cheer on the DFW Asian American Soccer Tournament July 22-23, 2024, at Winters Park.

Get cultured
Located in the heart of historic downtown Garland, the Granville Arts Center complex includes two magnificent proscenium theaters: the award-winning Atrium banquet facility and the exquisite art deco Plaza Theatre, which is home to Garland Summer Musicals. All venues are city-owned and operated.

Let's eat (and drink)
The food scene here includes Pangea, a restaurant owned by chef Kev Ashade who raise to fame after beating celebrity chef Bobby Flay on his own TV show.

Ferah Tex-Med Kitchen dishes up “modern Mediterranean with a Texas twist,” and the Garland Pho Real Trail boasts more than 20 authentic, family-owned Vietnamese restaurants.

Newcomers include Latham Bakery, Scoop n' Boba, and Fortunate Son.

Take your pick from two breweries: Lakewood Brewing Co. is a pioneer brewery and one of the original breweries that came on board when craft beer first emerged. Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery, meanwhile, offers delicious barbecue and craft beer in downtown Garland.

Shop 'til you drop
Wear your walking shoes, because Firewheel Town Center provides premier outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment with more than 110 stores.

But there's also plenty of unexpected shopping to be found here, where you can find rare and one-of-a-kind products.

Fall in love with your beginner or vintage guitar at Jimmy Wallace Guitars. Visit The Frocksy and Karin Wiseman Collection to discover marvelous and quirky items for you and your home. Stop by the Best Cowhides showroom and find exquisite, genuine leather rugs and purses. Or put together the perfect vintage outfit at Boogie Nights Vintage.

Rest your head
The most affordable hotel rates in the Dallas-Fort Worth area are in Garland. Hotels here are dedicated to cleanliness and have convenient access to President George Bush Highway, I-635/LBJ Freeway, and I-30. Many hotels are also within walking distance of Garland’s many diverse dining options.

Plan your perfect Garland getaway here.

Photo courtesy of Visit Garland

Live music takes over Downtown Garland Square year-round.

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesquite

March to a different beat this season with the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra

Hit the Road

Classical music may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the Rodeo Capital of Texas, but don’t be fooled — Mesquite has more to offer than legendary rodeos and barbecues.

This community also prides itself on enjoying the finer things in life, and the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is a unique, cultured experience unlike any other in Texas.

Found only 15 minutes from Dallas, the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra is a hidden gem that’s been bringing music to Texas since 1987.

Based at the Mesquite Arts Center, the MSO isn’t your average orchestra. It’s a volunteer-driven ensemble, steeped in the European tradition of community orchestras and dedicated to making memorable experiences through music.

The symphony is made up of talented musicians from North Texas who infuse their passion and expertise into every performance. Since 2018, the Orchestra has been led by Felix Torres, who previously served as the apprentice conductor of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and the executive director of the East Texas Youth Orchestra.

Under the baton of Torres, the MSO embraces the true Mesquite spirit of unpretentious sophistication. This isn’t your typical symphony, with stuffy dress codes and stifling regulations. In Mesquite, they believe music is for everyone and you are welcome to come as you are, whether that's dressed to the nines or however you feel comfortable.

That welcoming spirit doesn’t stop at the dress code. Visitors are encouraged to emulate the atmosphere of the early days of classical music, which more closely resembled a modern rock concert than a modern symphony.

All are invited to express the emotions brought on by the music during the performance, be it through clapping or cheering. Additionally, MSO endeavors to present diverse programs that are impactful for people of all backgrounds, including populations that are historically excluded.

The 2023-24 season is a series of enchanting performances, kicking off with Short Ride in America featuring works by John Adams, Antonin Dvorak, and William Grant Still.

The season continues with The Adventures of Youth, A Winter Celebration, Her Story, and Fantasy Unleashed, and culminates in the grand finale, Into the Fire, featuring pieces by Victor Agudelo and Igor Stravinsky.

Much like the community that hosts it, the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra isn't about the glitz and glamor; it’s about genuine charm and fostering an appreciation for live performance.

Here is the season at a glance:

Short Ride in America - September 16, 2023
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring John Adams’ "Short Ride in a Fast Machine," Antonin Dvorak’s "Cello Concerto" with soloist Tsun-yuet Emmanuel Kwok, and William Grant Still’s "Afro-American Symphony."

The Adventures of Youth - October 28, 2023
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring John Williams’ "The Adventures of Indiana Jones," a world premiere by local composer Nicolas Miranda, Juliea Wolfe’s "Fountain of Youth," and the bilingual version of Sergei Prokofiev’s "Peter and the Wolf (Pedro y el lobo)."

A Winter Celebration - December 16, 2023
5-6p m, 7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring John Williams’ "Three Holiday Songs from Home Alone," A Musicological Journey Through the 12 Days of Christmas, Coleridge-Taylor’s "Ballade," and more.

Her Story - February 17, 2024
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring Florence Price’s "Piano Concerto" with soloist Evan Mitchell and Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s "Scheherazade."

Fantasy Unleashed - April 6, 2024
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring music from the Harry Potter universe, Video Games Live, Katahj Copley’s "Equinox," and more.

Into the Fire - May 18, 2024
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring Victor Agudelo’s "Algo va a suceder" and Igor Stravinsky’s "The Firebird."

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesquite

Felix Torres has led the MSO since 2018.

Tickets can be purchased at MesquiteSymphony.org. The Mesquite Arts Center is located at 1527 N. Galloway Ave. Find more to do and enjoy in Mesquite here.

Photo courtesy of Dwellify

This new-to-Texas service handles every step of your kitchen or bath remodel

Pop Quiz

Turning your current home into your dream home might feel like a constant work in progress, but you don't have to go it alone. And even better, you can get it all done, from design to demo to reveal, with one company.

Dwellify is an online remodeling company that offers simple and affordable one-stop solutions for renovating kitchens and baths.

It has its own team of in-house designers and trusted contractors, and a Remodel Coordinator who will manage every step of the construction process for you. Simply put, it takes the guesswork and long timelines out of what can traditionally be an exhaustive and costly experience.

Start by taking Dwellify's online Style Quiz to determine the project requirements and your unique design style. Are you a Scandinavian supporter or more midcentury modern? The quiz identifies signature design traits, materials, and even a little bit of history for each style.

From there, a Dwellify designer will help finalize the layout and design. You'll receive a custom Dwellify Design Box with material samples and finishes from best-in-class national brands so you can see, touch, and mull them over in the comfort — and lighting — of your own home.

Once all your selections are set, you're assigned a Remodel Coordinator (who will act as your liasion and oversee the construction process) and a local field team (who will confirm measurements and technical requirements).

You can even follow along with the renovation process and communicate directly with your coordinator from the Dwellify app or website. The highly transparent interface tracks tasks and schedules, meaning no detail gets overlooked.

Unlike traditional renovation models, Dwellify's standard timeline starts at just six weeks and the final estimate established for the final design remains the same throughout — with no hidden fees or costs.

Dwellify has completed more than 10,000 remodels across the country, with a focus on homes in Arizona, Utah, Florida, and Texas.

"If I showed you the original kitchen compared to the new one, you wouldn’t believe it is the same space," say customers Rob and Jessica D. "From start to finish it was a great experience. Dwellify offers a great selection of products and finishes, and I was immediately excited to see the finished product. Our contractor was awesome and did an amazing job. The quality of his work was fantastic! Our project manager was always available and did a great job communicating with us and keeping us aware of the process."

To get started on making your ideal kitchen or bath a reality, visit Dwellify today.

Photo courtesy of Dwellify

Make your dream kitchen a reality.

Photo by Patricia Moore

Embrace cowboy culture in Bandera, the Wild West of Texas

Hit the Road

Ever wonder how Bandera came to be known as the Cowboy Capital of the World? The title originated when the Texas Hill Country town became a staging area for the last great cattle drives of the late 1800s.

Today, a bronze monument honoring the many National Rodeo Champions who call Bandera home stands on the courthouse lawn, and it's not uncommon to see horseback riders tipping their hats to each other as they pass in the surrounding rolling green hills. There are also regular gunfight re-enactments during Cowboys on Main, courtesy of the Bandera Cattle Company, and several dude ranches where you can hang your hat for the night.

Early days
Locals like to say that "nothing in Bandera changes except for the date," and an eye toward history is evident in the town's two museums.

The Frontier Times Museum is stocked with over 40,000 items and art that tell the story of Bandera County's earliest days. The Bandera Natural History Museum, meanwhile, displays an extensive wildlife exhibit and a collection of Spanish art from 1521-early 1800s.

Several spots in town are historical in their own right, too. Arkey Blues Silver Dollar Saloon recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, and St. Stanislaus Catholic Church is the second-oldest Polish Catholic church in the U.S. In fact, there are over 50 historic markers throughout the county, and 18 of them are in Bandera.

Mark your calendar
September rolls in with the Celebrate Bandera Roundup, complete with a parade and courthouse festivities as well as two ranch rodeos. September 23 is Cajun Festival in Lakehills at the Lakehills Civic Center (11225 Park Rd.), and at the end of September get ready for the Rumble on the River motorcycle rally.

The solar eclipse will be front and center on October 14, with many events throughout the area to celebrate and offer optimum viewing. On October 19-22, Bandera Brewery hosts its Beerfest, which is thankfully several weeks removed from Bandera Buckfest/Hunters Weekend on November 3-5.

February kicks off with the Annual Cowboy Mardi Gras, and you should be well recovered in time for the total solar eclipse in April 2024. Notable festivals during this time are Eclipse Utopia April 7-8 and Ground Zero Musicfest at Mansfield Park, April 5-9.

The Bandera ProRodeo Association welcomes Memorial Day weekend with three nights of professional (PRCA) rodeos and a Saturday morning parade. June is the beginning of the Summer Series Rodeos happening every Friday night through the first week of August, put on by Riding on Faith Rodeo.

Keep up to date and see a full calendar of events here.

It's natural
Two of the most breathtaking natural areas in Texas are within easy driving distance. Surround yourself with limestone bluffs and hills covered in blooming wildflowers at the Hill Country State Natural Area, which is home to more than 40 miles of trails.

Meanwhile, Lost Maples State Natural Area — named for the park’s abundance of bigtooth maple trees that provide vibrant fall colors — is 2,100 acres of statement-making scenery, including limestone canyons, grasslands and wooded hills, and clear-water streams. It's simply breathtaking in the fall.

The area is also known as one of the best birding destinations, with the spotting of species like the black-capped vireo, golden-cheeked warbler, and green kingfisher.

Chow time
Here you'll find an abundance of local eateries, including the Old Spanish Trail, which has been continuously open for over 100 years.

Elsewhere around town, take your pick from Mexican, Italian, Chinese, barbecue, pizza, and traditional steakhouses, while multiple bars offer adult drinks and dancing to live music almost every night.

For dessert or a refreshing snack, the Bandera General Store is a must; it has one of the last remaining old-fashioned soda fountains in Texas (there are only 11 of them!).

See more of what Bandera has to offer here.

Facebook/Lawmen: Bass Reeves

Lawmen: Bass Reeves trailer reveals 'wicked' Western series shot near Fort Worth

Hollywood in Cowtown

A series from Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan that's been filming near Fort Worth for months has revealed a sneak peek, and it seems "wicked days" are ahead: Paramount+ has dropped the first teaser trailer for Lawmen: Bass Reeves.

Sheridan's newest Western drama stars British actor David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves, a former slave who became one of the first Black U.S. deputy marshals west of the Mississippi River in 1875. Reeves is believed to have been the inspiration for the fictional character the Lone Ranger.

Originally announced as a Yellowstone spinoff called 1883: Bass Reeves, the title has changed, and it's now not considered part of the Yellowstone universe, a rep for the show says. None of the Yellowstone/1883/Dutton family characters will be in the show.

In the 20-second teaser, Oyelowo rides a horse across a field and introduces himself as Reeves in a voiceover. "I'm the law of this land, I'm Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves," he says. Then he then looks directly into the camera and declares, "and your wicked days are done."

There are flashes of guns shooting, cannons firing, and a house burning. A tagline reads: "The legend you know. The truth you don't."

According to Vanity Fair, Lawmen: Bass Reeves will be an eight-part anthology series that will premiere later this year on Paramount+. Sheridan and Oyelowo are executive producers.

The cast includes Dennis Quaid, Donald Sutherland, Mo Brings Plenty, Lauren E. Banks, Demi Singleton, Forrest Goodluck, and Barry Pepper.

Fort Worth mayor Mattie Parker announced in September 2022 that Bass Reeves filming would be coming to Fort Worth, following Yellowstone prequel 1883, which filmed around the city in 2021. Sheridan is an honorary Fort Worthian who attended Pascal High School and lives on a ranch in Weatherford.

Shooting for Bass Reeves started in early 2023, and many locals got cast as extras. The production was based in Fort Worth and scenes were filmed in Weatherford, Waxahachie, Stephenville, and Palo Pinto County.

"We were honored to have this production based in Fort Worth during filming and are looking forward to the series premiere later this year," the Fort Worth Film Commission posted on Facebook with a link to the trailer.

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesquite

Find real Texas flavor in Mesquite's best-kept secrets

Hit the Road

Not to be overshadowed by its big sister, Dallas, Mesquite is a vibrant city with its own unique flavor. Within this Lone Star city you’ll find a wide array of hidden culinary gems just waiting to be discovered.

Step off the well-trodden path of chain restaurants to discover Mesquite’s best-kept secret: its mom-and-pop restaurants.These “hole-in-the-wall” establishments are locally owned and deliver in flavor, authenticity, and heart.

Enjoy this sampling of Mesquite’s hidden culinary treasures that are well worth the trip.

Mesquite BBQ
Barbecue
145 E. Davis St.
972-285-6573
Mesquite BBQ has been a fixture in downtown Mesquite since 1959. The rich, smoky aroma and friendly customer service keep both locals and visitors coming back for more. Their meats are prepared daily in a unique smoker manufactured only a few blocks away.
Must-try dishes: brisket, meat-stuffed baked potato, Chop Chop sandwich

Yia Yia’s House of Gyros
Greek
904 E. Davis St., suite 400
469-802-9797
At Yia Yia’s, you’ll experience the true essence of Greek cuisine. This family-owned restaurant takes pride in serving traditional Greek dishes passed down through generations. With each bite, you’ll feel the presence of the chef’s grandmother, whose photo overlooks the preparation of every dish.
Must-try dishes: gyro wrap and traditional Greek salad

Jamaica Cook Shop
Jamaican
2033 Military Pkwy., suite104a
469-917-8417
Jamaica Cook Shop is a hidden gem offering fresh, made-to-order, authentic Jamaican food. Vibrantly decorated in the colors of the Jamaican flag and tucked away next to a gas station, this unpretentious kitchen serves up traditional island dishes and imported drinks.
Must-try dishes: jerk chicken, fried plantains, and stew chicken

Tasty Chicken & Wings
Salvadorian
302 S. Galloway Ave.
214-434-1916
Just as the name suggests, Tasty Chicken & Wings lives up to its reputation. Their birria tacos are hailed by some as the best in DFW, while their perfectly fried chicken wings are generously coated in homemade sauces. Made from scratch with care, every meal at Tasty Chicken & Wings is a flavor explosion.
Must-try dishes: birria tacos, pupusas, fried chicken wings, chicharron y yucca

Dia de Los Tacos
Mexican
1927 Faithon P. Lucas Sr. Blvd., suite 115
469-399-1245
In a city rich with Latino culture, Dia de Los Tacos stands out for its exceptional Mexican cuisine. Combining traditional flavors with innovative twists, this local favorite is known for its unbeatable breakfast tacos.
Must-try dishes: fajita burger, taco pies

Porky’s Burgers & Wings
Barbecue
4612 Gus Thomasson Rd.
972-863-9220
Porky’s has become a legend in Mesquite and DFW for its half-pound burgers crafted with fresh, non-traditional ingredients to create unique flavor combinations. From the tantalizing salmon burger to the tropical Hawaiian burger, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Must-try dishes: Double Porky Burger (a whole pound of beef!), mango-habanero wings

Vamos Pizza
Pizza
2411 N. Galloway Ave., suite 110
972-803-6575
When it comes to pizza, everyone knows that the best slices are local. Vamos Pizza offers authentic New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pies, alongside calzones, salads, and pasta dishes. With generous portion sizes and affordable prices, you’ll leave Vamos fully satisfied.
Must-try dishes: The Works pizza, chicken and shrimp carbonara, Caesar salad

Oh My Curry
Indian
909 E. Davis St., suite A
972-203-2121
Located just outside of downtown Mesquite, Oh My Curry is about to become your new favorite spot. This cozy restaurant offers flavorful and contemporary Indian dishes at affordable prices. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert and indulge in a refreshing lassi, an Indian yogurt-based beverage with a smoothie-like consistency.
Must-try dishes: chicken tikka masala, mutton biriyani bowl

Taqueria Mi Morelia
Mexican
1821 Crestridge Dr.
469-828-1458
Taqueria Mi Morelia may not catch your eye at first, but you don’t want to miss out on this Mexican culinary gem. Whether you’re craving tacos, tortas, Mexican-style hamburgers, or the famous huarache, there’s something on the menu to satisfy all taste buds.
Must-try dishes: huarrache, camarones a la diabla

Slab's BBQ
Barbecue
4401 N. Galloway Ave.
972-681-8008
Tucked off Galloway Avenue, this no-frills barbecue joint serves up classic favorites with a side of Texas hospitality. The meats are cooked fresh daily, ensuring each bite is packed with smoky goodness. Prepare to leave Slab’s with a full belly and a smile.
Must-try dishes: chopped beef sandwich, sliced beef dinner

Mesquite has a flavor all its own. Next time you’re craving a culinary adventure, visit Mesquite and treat yourself to one of these locally owned and loved restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesquite

Get Greek at Yia Yia's House of Gyros.

Find more to do, see, and eat in Mesquite here.

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'Yellowstone' stars to greet fans at Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo

Yellowstone news

Yellowstone fans, get your comfy shoes ready - there'll be a long line for this one. Cole Hauser a.k.a. "Rip Wheeler" on Yellowstone, and Taylor Sheridan, the show's co-creator, executive producer, and director of the series, will meet fans and sign autographs at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo.

The event will take place from 4:30-6:30 pm only on Friday, February 3. Location is the 6666 Ranch booth near the south end of Aisle 700 in the Amon G. Carter, Jr. Exhibits Hall.

According to a February 2 announcement from FWSSR, "fans will have the opportunity to snag an autograph as well as purchase some distinctive Yellowstone and 6666 Ranch merchandise while also enjoying all the features the Stock Show offers."

The event is free to attend (with paid Stock Show admission) and open to the public.

It's the second year in a row for Hauser to appear at FWSSR; in 2022, he and fellow cast mates drew huge crowds.

Sheridan, a Paschal High School graduate, is no stranger to Fort Worth; he lives in a ranch near Weatherford and filmed 1883, the prequel to Yellowstone, in and around Fort Worth. Currently, another spinoff, 1883: The Bass Reeves Story, is filming in North Texas.

The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is winding up its 2023 run on Saturday, February 4.

Tasty restaurant news tops this week's 5 most-read Fort Worth stories

This week's hot headlines

Editor's note: A lot happened this week, so here's your chance to get caught up. Read on for the week's most popular headlines. Looking for the best things to do this weekend? Find that listhere.

1. Fat tacos, crispy pepperoni pizza, and more Fort Worth restaurant news. We have lots of tasty restaurant dish in Fort Worth right now, including a new pizzeria, a new AYCE pizza buffet, and new limited-edition tacos. There's more than one fried chicken offering, and at least two pumpkin specials. Here's what's happening in Fort Worth restaurant news.

2. Restaurant bullish on burgers and bourbon cocktails comes to Grapevine. A better burger concept from South Carolina is taking a crack at Texas: Bohemian Bull, a small chain founded in Charleston in 2013, has opened its first Texas location in Grapevine, featuring burgers and a full bar with 24 craft beer taps.

3. Award-winning Mexican restaurant hits the jackpot at new Denton location. A DFW restaurant that's earned national acclaim has opened in Denton: El Rincón del Maiz, previously of Garland, is now located at 1431 E. McKinney St. in Denton where it's winning over locals with its Tex-Mex classics and vegan dishes.

4. Fort Worth Symphony Opening Night Celebration ushers in new season with grace and gusto. Thunder crashed and lightning crackled outside, but a freak Friday night thunderstorm couldn’t dampen spirits at the Fort Worth Symphony Opening Night Concert and Celebration on September 8.

5. Where to drink in Fort Worth right now: 9 best bars to watch college football. Three weeks into the season and college football is on fire. Here are nine of the best bars to visit for some college football-watching in Fort Worth right now - a mix of old favorites and a few new surprises.

Mr Gatti's Pizza returns to home turf Fort Worth with new location

Pizza News

A Fort Worth-based pizzeria concept has opened a location in Fort Worth: Mr Gatti's Pizza has opened a restaurant off Camp Bowie at 2812 Horne St. #100, a space previously occupied by Helen's Hot Chicken, where they're open with pizza, pizza rolls, and their signature ranch dressing.

The location is a franchise owned by Kirk Jefferies, who also owns and operates franchises of Jason’s Deli and Chicken Express. This is his first Mr Gatti’s, but he has more locations planned.

“When people talk about Mr Gatti's Pizza, you can see a spark in their eyes. We love being able to bring that 'excitement' and combine it with our passion for pizza,” Jefferies says in a release. “Mr Gatti's Pizza has been satisfying cravings for over 50 years. It truly is an honor to be a part of this legacy brand that people cherish."

Menu favorites from about a dozen pizza options include The Sampler, The Deluxe with sausage, pepperoni, & smoked provolone, and BBQ chicken. A basic 12-inch cheese pizza with one topping is $12.

There are lunch specials from 10:30 am-3 pm including pepperoni rolls and salad for $10; 8 wings and salad for $13; and a medium pizza with 2 salads for $15.

The chain was first founded in Stephenville, Texas as The Pizza Place, in September 1964. In 1969, founder James Eure moved to Austin and opened the first Mr Gatti’s Pizza, named for his wife's maiden name.

They have a major presence in South Texas but only two in the DFW area: Plano and Allen.

There was a location that opened in Fort Worth in 2016, at 3280 W. Seventh St. in Museum Place, which at the time, was the first to use the Mr. Gatti’s name; the chain had been going by "Gatti's." So many name changes! It closed in 2018. There was also a location in North Richland Hills which opened in 2016 and closed in early 2019; and a location in Richardson that closed in 2018.

Back in the day they had a big buffet as well as a big game room, two features for which many longtime fans are nostalgic. But this location is just about the pizza.

There are now more than 70 locations in states across the Southeast, including Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.

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