Best Italian Food in Gilmer, TX | Pizza, Pasta & Classic Dishes

Best Italian Food in Gilmer, TX

Gilmer has one Italian restaurant worth talking about—and it's a good one. Duran's Italian Pizza and Pasta sits right on the historic square, serving the kind of food you don't expect to find in a small East Texas town. Lasagna, chicken piccata, shrimp scampi, and hand-tossed pizza—it's the real deal.

Duran's Italian Pizza and Pasta

Must-try: Lasagna, chicken piccata, chicken marsala, shrimp scampi, pizza Location: On the square in downtown Gilmer

Ninety percent of the people who've eaten at Duran's love it—myself included. I've had the lasagna and the pizza, and both are quite good. Not the best Italian I've ever had, but certainly better than most small-town options and probably better than you were expecting to find on the square in Gilmer.

The menu covers Italian-American classics:

  • Lasagna – Layered, hearty, and baked until bubbly
  • Chicken Piccata – Tender chicken in a bright lemon butter sauce with capers
  • Chicken Marsala – Mushrooms and Marsala wine over perfectly cooked chicken
  • Shrimp Scampi – Garlicky, buttery, and generous with the shrimp
  • Pizza – Hand-tossed crust with fresh toppings

    • The atmosphere is casual and welcoming. This isn't white-tablecloth dining—it's comfortable, friendly, and the kind of place where the staff remembers regulars.

    Insider tip: The chicken piccata is the standout dish. If you only order one thing, make it that. And save room for tiramisu.

    What About Chain Italian?

    Gilmer doesn't have an Olive Garden or Carrabba's. The nearest chain Italian is in Longview, about 30 minutes away. For Italian food in Gilmer, Duran's is your option—and it's a good one.

    Italian by the Numbers

    ItemTypical Price
    Pizza (large)$14–18
    Lasagna$14–17
    Chicken piccata / marsala$16–20
    Shrimp scampi$18–22
    Tiramisu$7–9

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Duran's the only Italian restaurant in Gilmer? Yes. It's the only dedicated Italian spot in town. Open Range serves pizza, but Duran's is the only true Italian restaurant.

    Is the food authentic Italian? It's Italian-American—think Olive Garden quality but with more personality and local charm. The recipes are solid and the ingredients are fresh.

    Should I get pizza or pasta? Both are good. The pizza is great for sharing, the pasta dishes are more substantial. Chicken piccata is the best single entree.

    Is Duran's good for date night? Absolutely. It's the most romantic dinner option in Gilmer, especially if you walk the square afterward.

    Last updated: July 2026