Though Dallas, and the south in general, is famed for its incredible barbecue, Mexican, and America cuisine, there is considerably less buzz surrounding its pizza. While Dallas is no stranger to good pizza, the scene rarely gets an international, or national for that matter, spotlight. That is until recently.
The aptly-named 50 Top Pizza, an Italian-based publication that ranks the best pizzerias worldwide, recently published their yearly list of the 50 Top Pizzerias in the USA. Coming in at number 12 on its list is Partenope Ristorante in Dallas.
The Dallas pizzeria was the only Texas pizzeria to crack the list.
Housed in the historical Tiche-Goettinger Building at 1903 Main St. in Downtown, Dallas, Partenope Ristorante is run by chef, Dino Santonicola and his wife, Megan. Entitled after its Naples’ original name, and birthplace of Santonicola, Partenope prides itself as a premier destination for Verace Pizza Napoletana.
The publication notes the restaurant’s gnocchi alla sorrentina and traditional Ragu Napoletano and La Genovese, but concurs that pizza is its star.
“The dough is the classic Neapolitan one, soft, wood-fired, fragrant and well leavened. The pizza toppings are quality, fresh products and selected ingredients,” the publication writes.
“Try the sausage and broccoli, a must for the city of Naples. Or the Neapolitan calzone with smoked mozzarella, ricotta, salami and tomato, a small masterpiece. The cost of the pizzas ranges from 16 to 20 dollars and they are worth every penny. Professional service and drinks menu with a successful proposal for cocktails.”
Partenope also features a fully stocked bar and a wine list comprised totally of Italian wines.
Partenope Ristorante has two locations, one at 1903 Main St. in Dallas, the other at 110 S Greenville Ave in Richardson. The restaurant is open from 11 am to 10 pm Monday through Saturday, and from 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday.