Since 2013, Miriam & Rodolfo “Rudy” Stefano have been bringing modern Italian food to the people of East Texas! Born in Italy, Rudy came to the United States at the age of 6. After living in New Jersey & California, the Stefanos were brought to Longview on what would have been a short work stint; it became obvious to them that Longview was and still is a thriving East Texas destination.

Tuscan Pig Italian Kitchen is the only non-pizzeria Italian restaurant in Longview. It started back when the Stefanos were doing pickup delivery, catering, and vending at the Historical Longview Farmers Market. Starting with only their lasagna and tiramisu, they steadily built up their clientele and menu until January 2016 when they brought the restaurant to life.

From what started as a small restaurant Tuscan Pig has cemented itself as a must-have in East Texas as a full service & banquet room destination seating up to 100 guests.

“So if you’ve had Italian food in East Texas, it’s probably been from a pizzeria,” said Rudy. “Our menu items are items that you’re not going to find in any other Italian restaurant…We evaluated Italian food East Texas, and we did something completely different.”

The name, Tuscan Pig, is even based on the East Texas area. “You have to acclimate to the area that you’re in,” said Rudy. “So here in East Texas it’s all about a lot of good food that’s going to stick to your ribs, and good cheese. So we decided to go with the pig.”

Rudy adds that “it’s all about what’s called Tuscan style pork. It’s shoulder meat that’s cooked down for about eight hours in tomato sauce, hence the name Tuscan Pig.”

If asked “What’s your favorite dish?”, his reply is “my wife Miriam & I created all the dishes at Tuscan Pig. They are like our children; Can you love one more than the other?”

• Take a peek at the menu before you stop in

The Stefanos create all their sauces, like Alfredo, Ragù, Pink Sauce and Pesto, from scratch. There’s one thing you must try when stopping by, the ‘Country Lasagna’. Made with their shredded pork, Bolognese and béchamel sauce, with flat sheet noodles, it’s described as “real simple, but real hearty.”

Tuscan Pig is located at 401 South High Street in Longview.

You can learn more about Tuscan Pig Italian Kitchen by checking them out on Facebook or contacting them at 903-651-1833.

Hours of Operation

Lunch: Wednesday-Friday from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Dinner: Tuesday-Saturday from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

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