TAMPA, FL – Piccolo Buco, from the same team behind Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, is opening of its third location in Tampa, Florida on Monday, October 20, 2025. Located at 14904 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618, Piccolo Buco aims to be a intimate dining destination that captures the culture of Rome.
In partnership with Chef Luca Issa, owner of the original Piccolo Buco in Rome, the restaurant brings Italian traditions to Tampa. Cooper’s Hawk Founder Tim McEnery discovered Piccolo Buco while traveling in Rome and set out to bring their unique pizza experience to guests.
“Tampa is a perfect fit for Piccolo Buco’s authentic approach to pizza and Italian dining.,” said Tim McEnery, CEO/Founder of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants.
“As we establish our presence in Florida for the first time, we’re excited to become part of this vibrant community. This third location reinforces our vision of crafting exceptional dining experiences that bring people together around great food and genuine hospitality.”
The Tampa location features 192 seats; 144 interior and 48 in an enclosed patio. Upon entry, guests are met with a grand tasting bar with custom mantelpiece and light-framed shelving showcasing vintage treasures.
The dining room offers a a mix of seating and a clear connection to the kitchen, all beneath a suspended industrial ceiling with woven string lights, evoking an al fresco feel.
For a more intimate escape, the main bar features warm woods, vintage floral walls, and a gallery of nostalgic pieces. Every detail comes together to create a space that transports guests to the charm of a small Roman pizzeria while honoring Luca Issa, the original Piccolo Buco in Italy.
The menu showcases traditional Italian favorites alongside innovative interpretations, prepared with a mix of authentic and local ingredients. Signature items include Luca’s “Red, Yellow or White” pizza that finishes with a crisp, yet cloud-like dough and tall crust. Starters include Mama Luca’s Meatballs, Crispy Stuffed Squash Blossoms and Crispy Calamari. Modern Roman-style entrees include Cacio e Pepe, Truffle Fondue Cappellacci and Braised Short Ribs. For dessert there is Mama Luca’s Tiramisu, Amalfi Pound Cake and Chicago’s own, Raffaello Gelato.
The lunch menu features a collection of Sardinian sandwiches made with the brand’s signature pizza dough. To commemorate the official opening, a ribbon cutting ceremony will take place with Lee R. Pierson Jr., President of the Carrollwood Area Business Association and Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants Founder/CEO, Tim McEnery and Piccolo Buco Rome’s Chef/Owner, Luca Issa on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
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About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.
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