Piccolo Buco, from the team behind Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, is opening its newest location at 14904 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa on October 20. This highly anticipated debut marks Cooper’s Hawk’s first Florida expansion and is expected to be a major addition to the growing list of new restaurants Tampa has to offer.
The Tampa restaurant is a collaboration with Chef Luca Issa, owner of the original Piccolo Buco in Rome. Cooper’s Hawk Founder Tim McEnery discovered Issa’s acclaimed Roman pizzeria while traveling in Italy and set out to bring its signature pizza experience to the United States.
Piccolo Buco will serve Rome-style pizza in Tampa
“Tampa is a perfect fit for Piccolo Buco’s authentic approach to pizza and Italian dining,” McEnery said. “We’re thrilled to join this amazing community and bring people together over great food and wine.”
The new restaurant features 192 seats, with 144 indoors and 48 on an enclosed patio. Guests are greeted by a grand tasting bar framed with custom shelving and vintage décor, setting the tone for an immersive dining experience. The main dining room features open views of the kitchen, suspended string lighting reminiscent of Roman courtyards, and a mural of classical statues that pays homage to the restaurant’s heritage.
A new date night gem in Florida
For those seeking a more intimate experience, the bar area blends warm woods, floral walls, and nostalgic artwork, creating a cozy and refined space. Every design detail channels the charm of a Roman trattoria while adding a modern Tampa twist…