Tom Gray’s New Pizza Restaurant Opens in Jacksonville’s San Marco Square
Jacksonville,Fla. – A brand-new pizza restaurant, spearheaded by chef and owner Tom Gray, has officially opened its doors on Wednesday at 1996 San Marco Blvd., the former site of the iconic San Marco Theatre. This latest culinary venture promises a unique pizza experience, blending Roman-style dough with Detroit-inspired preparation techniques.
A Unique Pizza Concept
Gray’s new restaurant introduces a pizza that merges the best of both worlds: the light and airy qualities of Roman-style dough with the rectangular shape and generous toppings characteristic of Detroit-style pizza. The dough undergoes a 30-hour fermentation process, resulting in a crust that is both thick in appearance and surprisingly light and crunchy [[1]].
Pro Tip: Pair your pizza with a craft beer from a local brewery for the ultimate Jacksonville dining experience.
The Design and Ambiance
The 4,200-square-foot restaurant, designed by Atlanta-based ai3 and constructed by Urban Partners Construction of Jacksonville, can accommodate 120 to 130 patrons, depending on outdoor seating availability. While the interior of the original 1938 theatre has been transformed, intentional tributes to its cinematic past remain. Original exposed brick lines the walls, and the original film projector greets customers at the entrance. Silent movies are projected onto a wall, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.
Did You Know? The San Marco Theatre originally opened in 1938 and was a beloved community landmark for decades.
culinary Collaboration
Gray has partnered with pam Smith and Cliff Pleau of Shaping America’s Plate for this venture. Smith, a registered dietician nutritionist, specializes in utilizing freshly harvested ingredients to develop her recipes, ensuring a focus on quality and flavor. Gray also owns and operates Prati Italia at 4972 Big island Drive in the markets at Town Center and Town Hall at 2012 San Marco Blvd.
Restaurant Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1996 San Marco Blvd., Jacksonville, FL |
| Chef/Owner | Tom Gray |
| Seating capacity | 120-130 |
| Design Firm | ai3 (Atlanta) |
| Key Feature | Roman-Detroit style pizza |
Honoring the past
The restaurant’s design cleverly incorporates elements of the building’s history as the San Marco Theatre. above the open kitchen and near the bar, accent molding evokes the image of a theater curtain, a subtle nod to the building’s original purpose.
The evolution of Pizza in America
Pizza’s journey in the United States began in the late 19th century with Italian immigrants in New York City. Lombardi’s,established in 1905,is often credited as the first pizzeria in the country [[2]]. From these humble beginnings, pizza has evolved into a diverse culinary landscape, with regional variations like New York-style, Chicago deep-dish, and Detroit-style gaining popularity.The rise of artisanal pizza, emphasizing high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques, reflects a growing appreciation for culinary craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions About the New Pizza Restaurant
What are the restaurant’s hours of operation?
Please check the restaurant’s website or social media pages for the most up-to-date hours.
Does the restaurant offer takeout or delivery services?
Contact the restaurant directly to inquire about takeout and delivery options.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pizza options available?
inquire with the restaurant about their vegetarian and vegan offerings.
Does the restaurant take reservations?
Contact the restaurant to confirm their reservation policy.
What are your favorite pizza toppings? Will you be visiting this new Jacksonville pizza spot?
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