I sat down over a cup of coffee with David Wilson, proprietor of David's Seafood Grill & Catering, to learn the story of his restaurant.  As he shared, I came to understand that it's the community gathering around good food and conversation that's important to him.  His creativity in the kitchen and culinary experience help make it happen but his guests are #1.

David Wilson says he's always been a foodie.  Growing up in New Orleans, his roots are firmly planted in Cajun and Creole cuisine.  David worked his way up from apprentice waiter to general manager of the world-renowned Brennan's of New Orleans.  "It was a wonderful experience," David says of his time at that upscale, gourmet restaurant, "And I learned about food through our chefs from all over the world."  

The building in which David's is located was originally a Rockfish Seafood Grill.  It opened for business in October 2001. Wilson was a partner in that restaurant whose company had several other locations, mostly in Texas.  He eventually went on to become a managing partner before deciding to leave and strike out on his own.  

"I knew I wanted to open a restaurant in the Duncanville-Cedar Hill area," David told me.  He thought about calling it "David's Neighborhood Bistro," specializing in Cajun bistro-style food.  After a time of searching available properties, the Cedar Hill Rockfish location became available and David eventually decided to take it.  With the competition from a large seafod competitor eliminated, he chose to place more emphasis on seafood in his new restaurant.

Interior remodeling was done to give the restaurant more of a Texas or Southern lodge feel.  Some exterior renovations came later after a storm hit the building just last year.  Of this event David says, "It was the silver lining in the cloud, allowing us to make some necessary updates and repairs."  

Since David's Seafood Grill was opened, the menu has been through a couple of modifications and David has plans for another "freshening" of the menu in the near future.  While he enjoys coming up with tasty, new menu items, changing up the menu isn't always an easy task.  He naturally keeps in mind some of his current customers' favorites while he explains, "Something new comes on -- something else must go off."  If not, the menu would become too unwieldy!

So what are some of the more popular items on the menu?  According to David, Cajun Tilapia, snow crab, "po' boy" sandwiches (made with bread brought in special from New Orleans), creme brule', and bread pudding are favorites of many. 

When David comes up with new recipe ideas, his excellent kitchen manager, Sergio, goes to work.  Of Sergio, who's been with him for nine years, David says: "He provides continuity and quality in the kitchen."  There's even a dish named after him: Shrimp Pasta Sergio!  Earlier this year David brought his son, Shawn, on board as restaurant manager.  Shawn Wilson has an MBA in finance and close to 15 years of hotel/restaurant experience adding a helpful dimension to the business.

Whether for a wedding, church or club event, or a special family gathering, David's caters.  His restaurant catered the grand opening of the new Cedar Hill Government Center last year, serving approximately 800 people. 

David himself is very involved in the community.  Among the hats he wears at present (besides a chef's hat) is that of Chairman of the Cedar Hill Chamber of Commerce.  He also serves on the boards of the Cedar Hill Education Foundation, Leadership Southwest, and the Best Southwest Partnership.  He has made many friends in the area, as is evidenced by the crowd that gathers on weekend evenings in the area near the bar, informally known as "Club David's."  David is proud to say that he recognizes close to 70% of the folks who come in.  He is indeed a community-minded, hands-on proprietor! 

Next time you're in David's Seafood Grill, be sure to read the articles and reviews on the wall to your right as you enter. To read more about David's, or to view the menu visit their website.  

Have you eaten at this restaurant?  You can rate and review David's Seafood Grill & Catering here.

Mo Hadzovic's family came from Croatia and Montenegro over forty years ago, initially taking refuge in Italy, to escape the dictatorship of communist Yugoslavia.  While in Italy they learned to appreciate Italian food and cooking and before too long some family members immigrated to New York.

Mo spent his early childhood in the Bronx, but his family moved to the Dallas area when he was ten years old.  He grew up watching his mom cook and helping his uncle with his restaurant.  Mo washed dishes and swept floors, learning that it takes a lot of hard work and desire to make it in the business.  Today Mo is owner and operator of Italia Express and his Uncle Al is his business partner.

Italia Express opened its doors in July 2008.  The eatery is ideally situated for families with young children: right behind the dinosaur playground.  Dinner prices on the menu range from $6.75 - 8.50, but you'll spend less if you just want a slice of pizza or a delicious Greek Salad.  Soft drinks and iced tea are available and you can "BYOB" if you'd like a glass of wine with your meal.

Mo told me that twice daily they make everything "in house" from scratch, including their bread.  He will make dishes "to order," so if you have a special request don't be afraid to ask.  I wanted to know what were some of the more popular items on the menu.  "Lasagne," was his response.  "And fettucine alfredo with chicken."  And of course, all the pizza choices!  Mo says that everything is handmade with love.  He enjoys making people happy and loves the business.  "We do it with our hearts."  Mo added.  "Without customers, there is no us."