UPDATE: Spin sent out a release confirming three locations coming to the Dallas area. The first will open in Southlake Town Square, in the space formerly occupied by Blue Mesa. Richardson will open second. The third is in Las Colinas, at 1030 W. John W. Carpenter Fwy., scheduled to open in 2015.
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Another day, another pizza concept: Kansas City-based Neapolitan pizza chain Spin! will enter the Texas market with a branch in Richardson. The pizzeria takes over a space previously occupied by Sushiko Sushi, and it is slated to open in 2015, although spokesperson Lauren Fasbinder said she couldn't confirm a date.
Boasting an overly enthusiastic exclamation point in its name (which we will now drop), Spin was founded in 2005 by husband and wife Richard and Gail Lozoff with partner Edwin Brownell. There are five locations in the Kansas City area; the first franchised location opened in Southern California in 2013.
The chain falls into a rapidly growing category that includes 800 Degrees, Pizza Snob, Pie Five, Blaze Fast Fire'd, Top That, Uncle Maddio's, Live Basil Pizza, Pizza Studio and Project Pie. Many have announced plans to open in Dallas, including Project Pie, which is soon opening two branches in Dallas, and Blaze, which hasn't yet announced locations.
Spin serves Neapolitan pizza, salads, sandwiches and sides that are described as appealing to a "more healthful and eclectic American palate." The menu exhibits a broader scope than a straight-up Neapolitan-type pizzeria, with starters such as white bean hummus; soups, including white bean minestrone; and grilled panini such as spicy Italian beef. It passes the "arugula" test with an arugula salad combined with crimini mushrooms.
Pizza crust options include traditional thin and bubbly, rustic whole wheat, and gluten-free. Toppings include mushrooms, caramelized onions, artichokes, capers, pecans, pineapples, pine nuts and pancetta. That is a lot of P's. Sauces include crushed roma tomato and a "white pizza" glaze with olive oil and roasted garlic.
The chain employs a Chipotle-esque "hybrid" service model, combining a fast-casual ordering system and full service at the table.
Spin's crust options include whole wheat and gluten-free.
