A slice of Rome is coming to North Dale Mabry Highway.
Piccolo Buco, the Roman-style pizzeria concept from Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, will open its third U.S. location — and first in Florida — in Tampa on Oct. 20.
“Tampa is a perfect fit for Piccolo Buco’s authentic approach to pizza and Italian dining,” said Tim McEnery, founder and chief executive officer 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.”
Located at 14904 N. Dale Mabry Highway, the restaurant brings Roman craftsmanship and hospitality to the heart of Carrollwood. The concept was developed in partnership with Chef Luca Issa, owner of the original Piccolo Buco in Rome, whose restaurant became known for its tall, crown-shaped pizza crusts and simple, high-quality ingredients.
McEnery discovered Issa’s restaurant while traveling in Italy and saw an opportunity to bring the experience to Cooper’s Hawk guests and wine club members.
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Design inspired by Rome
The Tampa restaurant seats 192 guests — 144 indoors and 48 on an enclosed patio. A central tasting bar showcases vintage décor and Roman-inspired artwork. The dining room features a mix of industrial design and warmth with wood accents, floral walls and string lights, designed to evoke the feel of dining outdoors in Italy.
A mural of Roman statues adds a touch of history, while the bar offers an intimate escape with soft lighting and nostalgic details.
Authentic menu, local flair
The menu includes Roman and Italian classics, including Mama Luca’s Meatballs, Crispy Stuffed Squash Blossoms, Cacio e Pepe and Braised Short Ribs. The restaurant’s signature pizzas — available in red, yellow or white varieties — feature a crisp, airy crust and handcrafted toppings.
Desserts include Mama Luca’s Tiramisu, Amalfi Pound Cake and Raffaello Gelato. The wine list combines Italian varietals with Cooper’s Hawk’s own, award-winning selections.
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Lunch features Sardinian-style sandwiches made with pizza dough, while Cooper’s Hawk wine club members can use their benefits at all Piccolo Buco locations.
Ribbon cutting set for Oct. 18
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held Oct. 18, at 4:30 p.m., with McEnery, Issa and Lee R. Pierson Jr., president of the Carrollwood Area Business Association.
The restaurant will be open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are available on OpenTable.
For more information, visit piccolobuco.coopershawk.com.
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