Walking In An Italian Wonderland
Dolce Riviera Is A Breath Of Fresh Mediterranean Air.
If you’re looking for a less-expensive taste of Italy that doesn’t involve hopping on a plane, just head over to Dolce Riviera in downtown Dallas. The Italian restaurant, which reopened earlier this spring after a two-year hiatus, is reminiscent of the Mediterranean with its coastal decor, delicious food and upscale drinks.
“It was one of the most anticipated reopenings for us as a company because the restaurant is very dear to us,” says Warren Richards, the vice president of hospitality at Harwood Hospitality Group. “It’s really a special place, and bringing it back was an ambition everyone had.”
The restaurant exudes the highly sought-after coastal classic aesthetic with light blues, browns and pops of yellow. But the hallmark lies in a large lemon tree located in the middle of Dolce Riviera’s air-conditioned patio.
Once you’re finished oohing and aahing over the decor, it’s time to take a seat and sip on delicious craft cocktails. The restaurant’s take on an espresso martini, the Vespa Zoom, comes with Absolut Vanilla Vodka, Mr. Black’s Coffee, espresso and simple syrup for a drink rich with flavor. Meanwhile, the Amalfi Sun features Avion Silver Tequila, cucumber and agave syrup for a fresh-tasting drink.
Start off your meal with an appetizer like polpettine, made with house-made meatballs, parmesan polenta cakes and ricotta, before moving on to the main course with classic Italian dishes like lasagna and branzino. One of the most popular dishes is the veal Milanese, which is served with arugula, roasted tomato, lemon and parmesan.
The restaurant, which also offers brunch on the weekends, makes all of its pasta by hand, with gluten-free options also available. You can rest assured knowing that dishes like the fettuccine Bolognese or the cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper) are going to be satisfying and delicious.
Make sure you order dessert before you leave. Your taste buds will thank you after trying options like the bomboloni, a combination of Italian doughnuts, chocolate mousse and blackberry marmellata, or the tiramisu made with mascarpone mousse, espresso, lady fingers and cocoa.
“We’ve been overjoyed with the number of people who’ve wanted to come and experience the restaurant,” Warren says.