Electric Dough Pizza Co. Opens in Iconic San Marco Theatre Location: A Modern Culinary Revival
A New Chapter Begins in a Storied Space
The historic San Marco Theatre in Jacksonville, Florida, which closed its doors after more than eight decades of cinematic memories, has been reborn with a new purpose and flavor. Electric Dough Pizza Co., an innovative pizzeria blending modern vibes with nostalgic flair, has taken up residence in the iconic location, transforming the beloved neighborhood landmark into a culinary destination.
With the scent of wood-fired pizza now replacing popcorn and soda, the transformation is both striking and respectful. Local residents and pizza lovers are flocking to witness and taste the revival. Let’s take a tour inside this electrifying new venture that’s adding a fresh spark to San Marco Square.
Inside the Renovated Theatre Turned Pizzeria
Walking into Electric Dough Pizza Co., the first thing that hits you is the balance between history and modernity. While the marquee sign outside pays homage to the building’s cinematic past, the interior has been completely revamped into a sleek, vibrant dining space.
Design & Ambience
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Architectural preservation: The original theatre’s ceiling and archways have been beautifully maintained.
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Modern touches: Neon lights, industrial furniture, and a bright open kitchen bring a contemporary energy.
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Cinema-inspired décor: Movie reels, vintage posters, and even projector remnants add nostalgic charm.
The restaurant seats around 120 guests and features communal tables, cozy booths, and bar seating with a view into the bustling kitchen. A patio area, perfect for Florida evenings, adds another 30 seats.
What’s on the Menu?
Electric Dough Pizza Co. is more than just pizza—it’s a creative kitchen that experiments with flavors while honoring classics. The dough is fermented for 72 hours, resulting in a light, airy, and crispy base. Toppings range from traditional favorites to imaginative creations.
Signature Pizzas at a Glance
| Pizza Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margherita Modern | Fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, basil oil | $14.00 |
| Hot Honey Hustle | Spicy pepperoni, hot honey drizzle, ricotta | $16.50 |
| Truffle Shuffle | Wild mushrooms, white truffle oil, fontina | $18.00 |
| Electric Vegan | Cashew cheese, seasonal veggies, vegan pesto | $15.00 |
| Build Your Own | Choose from a wide array of meats & veggies | Starting at $12.00 |
The menu also features:
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Appetizers: Garlic knots, burrata salad, crispy calamari
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Mains: Pizza is the star, but a few pasta and panini options are available
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Desserts: Cannoli, tiramisu, and a Nutella-stuffed pizza pocket
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Drinks: Local craft beers, wine, and house-made sodas
Crowd Favorites (So Far)
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The Hot Honey Hustle is already a hit among spice lovers.
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Truffle Shuffle wins over the gourmet crowd.
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Families love the shareable Build Your Own option.
Community Connection & Events
Electric Dough Pizza Co. isn’t just a restaurant—it’s aiming to be a community hub. From its soft opening, the vibe has been more than just about food. Local musicians perform on select weekends, trivia nights are on the calendar, and family movie nights (yes, with pizza and a projector screen!) are rumored to be in the works.
Community Engagement Initiatives:
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Local collaborations: Working with area farms for fresh ingredients
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Hiring local: Staff includes many former San Marco Theatre employees
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Event nights: Trivia, live music, and pizza-making workshops
Why It Matters to San Marco
The closing of the San Marco Theatre marked the end of an era for many residents. It wasn’t just a place to see a movie—it was a neighborhood anchor. By transforming this cultural landmark into a lively, welcoming space again, Electric Dough Pizza Co. is not only preserving the memory but evolving it.
Impacts
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Revitalizes a historic site
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Brings foot traffic back to San Marco Square
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Creates a new local gathering spot
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Supports Jacksonville’s small business scene
Quick Facts About Electric Dough Pizza Co.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1996 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL |
| Opening Hours | Tue–Sun, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. |
| Seating | 120 indoors, 30 outdoors |
| Owner | Jason Mueller, local restaurateur |
| Special Features | Open kitchen, local art, live events |
Conclusion
Electric Dough Pizza Co. has not just opened a new restaurant; it has reignited a beloved Jacksonville landmark with flavor, community spirit, and modern charm. The thoughtful redesign, innovative menu, and commitment to local engagement make it more than a place to eat—it’s a place to gather, remember, and make new memories.
Whether you’re a longtime San Marco local mourning the theatre’s closure or a foodie seeking the next big thing, Electric Dough Pizza Co. offers a fresh slice of Jacksonville’s evolving culinary and cultural scene.
