Remember when Texarkana used to have Mr. Gatti's Pizza? It was a favorite hangout in the early 80s known for its great-tasting pizza, sandwiches, soup, and salads just off N. State Line Avenue.

Mr. Gatti's Pizza

Many families in the Texarkana area probably remember having a birthday party there or another special occasion so it was sad when the restaurant closed its doors. The Texarkana Mr, Gatti's was one of the first restaurants to have a big-screen TV for watching sports and a full arcade of video games.

Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
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I still remember their slogan, "The Best Pizza in Town - Honest!" Well, those days are gone in Texarkana but there is some silver lining to this story.

Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
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According to Pizza Marketplace .com, Walmart the nation's largest retailer has teamed up with Mr. Gatti's Pizza for a marketing deal that will bring 92 new locations to select Walmart across four states at the end of the year. Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Kentucky.

Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
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Of those 92 mentioned, 12 locations will be opening in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. Could Texarkana be on the list? At this time a list of cities hasn't been announced it's yet to be determined. but for now, we'll keep our fingers crossed. I believe most Texarkanians would welcome Mr. Gatti's Pizza back with open arms even if it's just in Walmart.

Walmart Posts Strong First Quarter Earnings
Getty Images, Scott Olson
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The extended plans are to expand into other states at some point, so there's hope in my opinion even if we could get one in one in our neighboring towns nearby would be nice.

Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
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Mr. Gatti's Walmart locations will feature an all-new design, with counter service and seating to enjoy various menu items like pizza, wings, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
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Delivery service will also be available at the new locations and when you download Mr. Gatti's app you can order while you shop and they will have it ready to take home.

Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
Mr. Gatti's Story, YouTube
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For now, the nearest Mr. Gatti's Pizza restaurant is in Allen, Texas at 1201 East Main Street. Visit Mr. Gatti's Pizza website here.

Would you like to see Mr. Gatti's Pizza come back to Texarkana?

Texarkana Photos - Google Street Views 2007 Through Today

Gallery Credit: Jim Weaver

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