TAMPA – Piccolo Buco, from the team behind Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, was scheduled to open its third location in Tampa on Oct. 20 at 14904 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.
This newest restaurant continues Cooper’s Hawk’s mission to bring exceptional culinary and wine experiences to guests’ backyards. Piccolo Buco is designed as an intimate dining destination that captures the essence of Rome.
The restaurant brings authentic Italian traditions to Tampa in partnership with Chef Luca Issa, owner of the original Piccolo Buco in Rome.
Cooper’s Hawk founder Tim McEnery discovered Piccolo Buco while traveling in Rome and set out to bring its pizza experience to wine club members and guests.
“Tampa is a perfect fit for Piccolo Buco’s authentic approach to pizza and Italian dining,” McEnery said. “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 inside and 48 on an enclosed patio.
Upon entry, guests are met with a grand tasting bar with a custom mantelpiece and light-framed shelving showcasing vintage treasures. Here, wine tastings come alive with subtle nods to Rome, local culture and the Piccolo Buco identity through bespoke artwork and wall features.
The dining room offers a mix of seating and a clear connection to the kitchen, all beneath a suspended industrial ceiling adorned with woven string lights, evoking an al fresco feel. A mural of Roman statues pays homage to the restaurant’s history.
The main bar features warm woods, vintage floral walls and a curated gallery of nostalgic pieces for a more intimate escape.
The menu showcases traditional Italian favorites alongside 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.
Roman-style entrees include Cacio e Pepe, Truffle Fondue Cappellacci and Braised Short Ribs. The dessert selection includes Mama Luca’s Tiramisu, Amalfi Pound Cake and Raffaello Gelato.
An extensive wine selection features both Italian varietals and Cooper’s Hawk’s own wines.
The lunch menu features a collection of Sardinian sandwiches made with the brand’s signature pizza dough.
Cooper’s Hawk wine club members can also enjoy the perks of their membership at all Piccolo Buco locations.
Want to go?
Piccolo Buco operates from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 14904 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa.
On the web: piccolobuco.coopershawk.com
