Dallas Cowboys Enthusiast Opens Unique Pizzeria with a Tex-Mex Influence

A new addition to the Dallas Medical District, Starboy’s Pizzeria, now serves a range of inventive pizzas at Food Nation Cinco Cocinas on Maple Ave. Founded by John Flores, a Dallas Cowboys devotee and IT professional, the pizzeria has taken over the space of the former Sal’s Pizza and Restaurant. Flores, nicknamed “Starboy” due to his love for the Cowboys and interest in NASA, connected with food hall founders Ray Quintanilla and Mico Rodriguez through karaoke at Mico’s Bar. Rodriguez, a significant figure in the Dallas Tex-Mex scene, recently passed away.

The restaurant features a diverse menu that merges traditional pizza with Mexican-inspired dishes, developed in collaboration with Lupe Ibarra, an experienced chef who worked at Sal’s Pizza. Signature items include the Pizza Birria and unique pies celebrating Cowboys themes. Starboy’s Pizzeria also offers lunch deals under $12, aiming to serve the local medical, residential, and retail customers. Flores hopes to give back to the community, drawing inspiration from his mother’s love for hosting family meals.