Some of the best Italian food in Texas is hiding where you'd least expect to find it: the densely forested landscape of the Piney Woods. Switch Brick Oven Pizza & Wine Bar in Palestine is an East Texas icon, but the rest of the state doesn't even know it exists. From the authentic Neapolitan-style pizza to the wine room that looks like it belongs at a vineyard in the Italian countryside, this hidden gem is so worth seeking out.

When you pull up to Switch Brick Oven Pizza & Wine Bar in Palestine, you'll think you've traveled to Tuscany.

Between the ivy-wrapped columns, trees that dangle overhead to form lush canopies, and romantic ambiance, the restaurant is a little slice of Italy nestled deep in the Piney Woods.

Inside, the atmosphere offers an elegant rusticism, and the friendly service will make you feel right at home.

Don't be surprised if the owners stop by your table to ask how everything is. Going above and beyond is just how things are done here!

Seating is available both indoors and out, with the patio overlooking the oak-lined, terraced hill the restaurant sits upon.

The open-air arrangement lets you enjoy the temperate East Texas climate, knowing you can always retreat into the dining room in the event of inclement weather.

Just wait until you see the wine room - it's like stepping into a cellar at a vineyard in the Italian countryside!

The room has a dining table that accommodates up to 12 guests, making it perfect for intimate gatherings such as business meetings.

All the magic happens in the restaurant's very own wood-fired oven.

Cooking the pizza at a very high temperature for a short amount of time, the oven creates traditional Neapolitan-style pies that taste like they came straight from Rome.

The pizza flour and San Marzano are both imported from Italy, and you can taste the authenticity in every bite.

As far as toppings go, the sky is the limit! You'll see a little bit of everything on the menu, from simple Margherita pizzas to more unique offerings.

While pizza is the star of the show, there's plenty more to choose from!

Pasta dishes, entrée salads, soups, appetizers...the list could go on. Oh, and don't skip dessert - the cheesecake is to die for.

Hours are 4:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 4:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. Friday, and 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. Saturday. Visit the restaurant's website or Facebook page for more information.

Have you ever been to Switch Brick Oven Pizza & Wine Bar? If so, what did you order and how was it? Tell us in the comments! For more of the best Italian food in Texas, check out our previous article.