CARROLLWOOD — Work is underway on a former Italian restaurant being replaced by — a new Italian restaurant.
While not formally announced until signs appeared, the site of Tampa’s only Romano’s Macaroni Grill, which closed in 2023, is being renovated for Piccolo Buco by Cooper’s Hawk — an Italian concept from the Illinois-based winery and hospitality group.
It will be the first Florida location and one of two new sites to complement the inaugural location in Oak Brook, Illinois.
No opening date has been announced.
The restaurant was inspired by Piccolo Buco Roma — near Rome’s Trevi Fountain — where Cooper’s Hawk Founder and CEO, Tim McEnery discovered Chef Luca Issa and his authentic pizza. The menu also features beverages, cocktails, wine, pasta dishes such as Spaghetti Carbonara and Mezzi Rigatoni Alla Vodka and entrees including Chicken Parm. Deserts such as tiramisu and gelato will also be available.
Founded in 2005 by McEnery, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant now includes more than 60 locations and nearly 750,000 Wine Club members. There are two Cooper’s Hawk locations in Tampa — 4110 W. Boy Scout Blvd. in Westshore and 28963 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, which opened in 2023.