Almost every culture has a variation on the meatball in its cuisine, but here in the U.S., it is the Italian immigrants who settled in New York, Boston and Philadelphia who created the orb most seen on the American table. Refined Hospitality Concepts (RHC) will celebrate that spicy sphere when they bring Sfreeco, their newest concept, to downtown Dallas this summer.
Located in the former Ramen & Bao spot outside the Statler Hotel, Sfereco is a passion project for RHC’s COO Robert Hall and Corporate Chef Ryan Carbery.
“I was working in my family’s restaurants from the time I was a child,” notes Carbery. “I can remember so vividly the sights and smells of my dad’s pizza and pasta restaurant, and how it really brought people together.”
Sfereco offers quick-service dining with a polished yet casual delivery. Guests order their food at the counter either to-go or to enjoy at communal tables. A full-service bar will offer patrons a wide selection of beer, wine and craft cocktails, including a menu of Italian-inspired specialty libations.
While Sfereco’s menu celebrates the meatball, with beef, pork, chicken and even vegetarian options, the menu is designed to let the guest customize their dining experience. Meatballs can be ordered plain, in bowls and as a part of “Build-Your-Own” pizza and pasta dishes. Some chef’s favorite items include the Sfereco Meatball with house-made pork, beef and veal grind, spaghetti noodles, house-made pomodoro, parmiggiano-reggiano and basil; Pesto Pasta with house-made basil pesto, parmiggiano-reggiano and pine nuts; Short Rib with polenta, house-made tomato sauce and parmiggiano-reggiano; Jimmy’s Italian Flatbread with Jimmy’s Italian sausage, pepperoni, fresh mozzarella and basil.
RHC’s Robert Hall drew inspiration for Sfereco from New York City “where it becomes clear that American Italian is its own cuisine. It’s this approachable and well-loved flavor profile we hope to celebrate at Sfereco,” Hall explained.
To meet the needs of busy downtown and uptown diners, Sfereco plans an extensive delivery program as well as their dine-in and take-out offerings.
“Whether you want to drop in and share a bite and a cocktail at our communal tables or order an Italian feast delivered to your home or office, Sfereco provides a warm and welcoming way to enjoy classic American Italian flavors,” said Hall.
A unique brunch food and drink menu is also in the works that will complement the welcoming atmosphere and American Italian originality the concept presents.
