From the kitchens of Portland and Austin to the heart of Oak Cliff, Chad Dolezal has always followed his gut—literally. A musician-turned-chef, Chad co-founded Cenzo’s Pizza & Deli, a neighborhood restaurant that has quickly become a local institution. In this episode, he shares his journey through the restaurant world, how his punk rock roots shaped his approach to hospitality, and why Cenzo’s is more than just a place to grab a slice. Plus, we get into the unexpected way a Mattress Firm employee helped put Cenzo's on the national pizza map.

In episode 9, we welcome chef and owner Skye McDaniel of La Bodega in Oak Cliff’s Bishop Arts. Skye shares the journey of building a food-centric community space, inspired by her Sicilian family roots, love for travel, and commitment to ethical food sourcing. From hosting beloved “Sunday Suppers” to creating a space where intentionality meets hospitality, Skye dives into the challenges and rewards of sticking to her values in an industry driven by convenience. Join us for a deep look into how she’s built La Bodega as a neighborhood haven, fostering connections over every meal.

In episode 7, we sit down with Jimmy Contreras, the visionary behind Taco Y Vino and LadyLove, to explore how he’s crafted Oak Cliff’s ultimate “third place”—a welcoming spot that’s as perfect for locals as it is for out-of-town guests. Jimmy shares insights into the spirit of Oak Cliff, the power of communal spaces, and how his team’s dedication has helped Taco Y Vino become a North Texas favorite. From pandemic pivots to the art of pairing tacos and wine, Jimmy’s journey reflects Oak Cliff’s unique blend of resilience, warmth, and community connection.