Mr. Gatti’s Pizza, an iconic restaurant chain that debuted an updated prototype in July, will celebrate the opening of its newest location at 17194 Preston Road in North Dallas with a Grand Opening event beginning at noon on Saturday.

As part of the day’s activities, Mr. Gatti’s will announce a donation that will be made in support of the Dallas Police Association’s “Assist The Officer Foundation” and Dallas Fire-Rescue will conduct a show-and-tell beginning at noon.

“As part of the Dallas-Fort Worth community, it is important that we do our part to recognize the sacrifices that all our first responders make on a daily basis and show them how much we appreciate all that they do for us,” says Michael Poates, president of Mr. Gatti’s Pizza.

In addition, a ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. and a face painter will be on hand for children from noon through 2 p.m.

The new restaurant offers tableside service and features the traditional Mr. Gatti’s game room. The menu, much of it prepared in a rotary, copper tiled, fire-deck oven, brings back Mr. Gatti’s original Napoli-style crust, a sourdough crust and a new gluten-free crust. Guests are able to build their own pizza or pasta creations by choosing from a variety of sauces and toppings, which now include vegan cheese and meat alternatives. Long-time fans of Mr. Gatti’s will recognize many of the entrees, including traditional lasagna, baked ziti and chicken parmesan. Four appetizers, including the addition of Ginormous Meatballs, are available along with three salad options.

Mr. Gatti’s has plans to open additional restaurants this year in Fort Worth and North Richland Hills.