The Secchi family history begins on the sea and is enriched by details that read as intricately as a treasure map . . .
At the young age of 23, Francesco decided to join the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line as Matre’d of the ship’s fine dining restaurant. Originating from the Italian island of Sardinia, his goal was to see the world and learn about the many cultures by visiting the ship's port cities. His plans changed when he met his soon-to-be bride, Jane an on-board beautician whom hails from Great Britain. The two were married not long after and worked together on the cruise line for the next eight years. When Francesco and Jane made the decision to dock on dry land, they chose Dallas, Texas. Struck by the city’s charm and affability, the climate reminded Francesco of Sardinia, a new place to call home.
Francesco and Jane opened the first Ferrari’s Italian Villa, on October 26, 1983 in the West End and introduced the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex to authentic Italian cuisine comprised of recipes that have been in Secchi family for over 100 years. Much has changed since the inaugural date, but the family’s commitment to serving traditional Italian food has remained the same. Francesco and Jane’s three sons, Stefano, Gavin and Gianni, all offer their own unique addition and flare to the restaurant.
The food prepared is representative of everything the Secchi’s hold sacred: family, tradition and pride. The service is brought forth from a collective group and continues to underscore quality and excellence. The Secchi’s have watched the dining population of Dallas/Fort Worth explode over the years, but still prevail with classic Italian dishes such as: Gnocchi, Lasagna, and Cioppino while at the same time featuring Prime Steaks, Chops and the Freshest Seafood with an Italian flare.