Alessio Franceschetti

Well-known Dallas restaurateur and chef Alessio Franceschetti passed away peacefully with family by his side on May 5th 2023 at the age of 73. Alessio was born in a small village on the outskirts of Milan, Italy. He left home at age 14 to apprentice in the restaurant business in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria where he learned to speak a few additional languages. When he served his obligatory two-year stint in the Italian army, he was fortunately stationed in Florence, Italy where he was assigned to restaurant duty. Upon discharge from the army, he got a job working on the Swedish American cruise line which allowed him to travel the world. While docked in Bermuda, his friend convinced Alessio to get off the ship to pursue work locally. The pair worked on the island until they found their way to Dallas, Texas where their illustrious careers in America began.

Eventually Alessio opened his first restaurant, “Alessio’s, il Ristorante.” His specialty was unforgettable Italian cuisine presented with superior service. The original location on Lomo Alto near Lemmon Avenue attracted a loyal following, visiting celebrities, and was the site of many wedding proposals at the romantic table for two in the front window. At the entrance of the restaurant, Alessio proudly displayed a certificate signed by then Governor Ann Richards declaring him an official Texan. It was a high honor to receive as he considered himself a true Texan at heart.

After retiring, Alessio took much pleasure in cooking for neighbors and catering for long-time customers. His regular routine included socializing at his favorite local spots, E Bar Tex-Mex and Jimmy’s Food Store. Upon arrival, should another customer be sitting in his favorite chair, they would be met with a steely glare that prompted them to vacate “Alessio’s” seat immediately. But people who knew Alessio were never intimidated, only entertained. He made many life-long friends who loved him dearly. You know who you are.

He is survived by his family in Italy including his sister Maria Rosa, her husband Franco, their children Elena and Luca; his brother Mario and wife Graziella, their children Andrea and Sara; grandnephew Samuele, and grandniece Alessia. They have always loved him and mourn his passing. They are proud of his path in life and happy that he has had many friends and a new family by his side in Dallas. He was briefly married to Rebecca Philbrook. From that time forward, her family became his family which includes her children Zachary Mitchell, Megan and husband Bradley Lembcke of Houston, and grandchildren Thomas, Rebecca, and Sam. Being Nonno to the three bambini was one of the greatest joys of his life.

Alessio was extremely grateful to the physicians, nurses, and entire staff at Baylor University Medical Center who provided excellent care over the years and in his declining health the last few months. We know Alessio has been reunited with his parents, Onorina and Dorino Franceschetti, in Heaven. Undoubtedly, his beloved pets Pomeranians Bibi Rosa and Sugi, Labrador retrievers Brandy and Rebel, Sophie the cat, and various parakeets were thrilled to be reunited with him at the Rainbow Bridge.

In the words of one of his oldest and dearest friends, we wish Alessio a good trip home. Remember, he has lived his life with gusto and his heart was bigger than himself.

A service honoring Alessio will be held on Friday, May 26th at 11 am at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Dallas. In lieu of flowers, please patronize Alessio’s favorite locales E Bar Tex-Mex and Jimmy’s Food Store. Raise a glass to toast him or share a memory while you’re there. For we know he was dearly loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Please click to read a wonderful tribute to Alessio by his friend Alfonso Cevola:

https://acevola.blogspot.com/2023/05/chef-alessio-franceschetti-bacchus.html

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.andersonclaytongonzalez.com for the Franceschetti family.