Andrea’s Restaurant by Lisa McKnight
4816 Gaston, 214.823.3100
Hours: 5:00 - 10:00 p.m. except Tuesday and Sundays which are 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Sunday Brunch Coming Soon
After growing up in Guanajuato, Mexico, Alfonso Carmona settled in Dallas, Texas. For 13 years he was the head chef at “Savino’s”, an upscale Italian restaurant where Hector’s on Henderson’s is located now. He ventured on his own and opened a restaurant named after his daughter, “Andrea”. Ten years ago, he chose his Peak Suburban locale to accommodate Hispanic clientele because he had planned on opening a Mexican Restaurant. But soon, the patrons from “Savino’s” followed him to “Andrea’s” and were demanding more pasta and Italian food. The restaurant has since transformed into an Italian restaurant “with a Spanish flair” according to Carmona. Customers to Andrea’s come from all reaches. “Many of my clients are from Highland Park and Lakewood, but I have people that drive from all over,” said Carmona. Karla Chavez is one of those customers. “I have been coming here from Mesquite for 10 years now, the food is delicious,” said the school teacher from GISD.
Carmona does not buy in bulk and tries to use the freshest ingredients. East Dallsites are not the only ones noticing Andrea’s. This restaurant has been written up in the Dallas Morning News, The Advocate, and D.Magazine, all with glowing reviews.
Alfonso Carmona is not just a local business owner, he is a resident too. Living in Junius Heights, he is committed to improving the area. Approximately 3 months ago, he started the “East Dallas Small Business Association” which now boasts over 20 members. “I love this neighborhood, I have seen many good changes in the past 10 years,” said Carmona.