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.
Fresh, house-made artisan bread deliciously filled with pomodoro, mozzarella, Calabrian aioli, pecorino, parmesan, and tender house-made meatballs | Photo via Piccolo Buco
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.
Enjoy Rome-style pizza | Photo via Piccolo Buco/Facebook
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.
The menu blends traditional and contemporary Italian flavors, using a mix of authentic and locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include Luca’s “Red, Yellow, or White” pizza, known for its tall, cloud-like crust, along with Mama Luca’s Meatballs, Crispy Calamari, and Stuffed Squash Blossoms. Entrées such as Cacio e Pepe, Truffle Fondue Cappellacci, and Braised Short Ribs showcase the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor. Dessert highlights include Mama Luca’s Tiramisu, Amalfi Pound Cake, and Raffaello Gelato from Chicago.
The ultimate lunch spread | Photo via Piccolo Buco/Facebook
Your new go-to lunch spot in Tampa
Lunch offerings feature Sardinian-style sandwiches made with Piccolo Buco’s signature pizza dough, and the extensive wine list includes both Italian varietals and Cooper’s Hawk’s own award-winning selections. Members of the Cooper’s Hawk Wine Club can also enjoy their benefits at Piccolo Buco locations.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for October 18 at 4:30 p.m., featuring Tim McEnery, Chef Luca Issa, and Lee R. Pierson Jr., President of the Carrollwood Area Business Association.
Location and Hours:
14904 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618
Sunday–Thursday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Lunch Menu: Daily, 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Happy Hour: Monday–Thursday, 2 p.m.–5:30 p.m.
Learn more about the restaurant and see its full menu on its website.
Dining and Cooking