Dave Fish grew up in Rhode Island, a hockey and swimming kid who eventually found his way into hotel work before landing, improbably, in northwest Reno with a vision. He co-founded Eclipse Pizza Company in 2005, and in the time since, more than 200 young people from the neighborhood have cycled through—learning to work hard, treat customers right, and be part of something before heading off to whatever came next. Today, he runs Eclipse as majority owner alongside Joe Parker and Steven Mahaffey, and the place is casual, unpretentious and deeply woven into the fabric of the neighborhood. Eclipse is located at 3950 Mayberry Drive; learn more at www.eclipsepizza.net.
What’s the best thing you’ve eaten locally in the last month?
The filetto balsamico (beef tenderloin in a balsamic vinegar reduction) at Mario’s Portofino. I’ve been going there for years, and it’s one of those dishes I never feel the need to stray from.
Your kitchen is on fire! (Metaphorically.) What are you cooking?
We are probably making a custom half-and-half pizza with all kinds of additions and substitutions that a long-time customer has fine-tuned over the years. It’s great to see customers tailor their orders and to deliver to every request.
Who is/was your strongest culinary influence?
My mother. The meals were nothing fancy, but the love and effort that went into every plate left a mark—one I hope carries into every pizza we make.
What is your go-to midnight snack?
Coffee chip ice cream.
Which local restaurant deserves more attention and why?
PJ’s—an old-school Reno institution without the fanfare and glitz. Just good food and nice people.
How does food contribute to our community?
Gathering around a good meal is one of the oldest forms of community there is. We see it on our patio every week—friends, neighbors and people just happy to be together. And when we can support a worthy cause through a fundraiser, that’s just more of the same spirit.
What is the one thing you won’t eat?
Sketchy, undercooked chicken!
Please share your favorite food memory from growing up.
Mom’s tomato soup spaghetti—it was a family delicacy. I didn’t know how simple it was at the time, but the lure of it would get us to do any job around the house, no matter how involved.
What is the one kitchen tool you can’t live without?
Our pizza oven. It’s got war wounds and has been rebuilt many times, but always delivers. Cooking with it is more of an art than a science, which gives it personality.
What has been your most memorable meal?
Birthday gatherings growing up. Family crowded around a favorite meal, then the cake—there’s nothing complicated about it, but those moments stick with you forever.