Piccolo Buco: Authentic Roman Trattoria Set to Open in Carrollwood, Tampa on October 20, 2025
Authentic Roman Trattoria Set to Open in Carrollwood: Piccolo Buco Brings a Taste of Italy to Tampa
TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 7, 2025 — Food enthusiasts in Carrollwood are in for a treat as Piccolo Buco, the latest venture from the team behind Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, prepares to open its doors on October 20, 2025. This new location promises to deliver an authentic Roman dining experience, featuring contemporary Neapolitan pizza and traditional Italian dishes that will transport guests straight to the heart of Italy.
Located at 14904 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Piccolo Buco is designed to be an intimate dining destination that captures the essence of Rome. The restaurant is a collaboration with Chef Luca Issa, owner of the original Piccolo Buco in Rome, who brings his culinary expertise to Tampa. Tim McEnery, Founder and CEO of Cooper’s Hawk, discovered the original Piccolo Buco during his travels and was inspired to share its unique pizza experience with the local community.
“Tampa is a perfect fit for Piccolo Buco’s authentic approach to pizza and Italian dining,” said McEnery. “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 new restaurant boasts 192 seats, including 144 inside and 48 on an enclosed patio. Upon entering, guests will be greeted by a grand tasting bar adorned with custom mantelpieces and vintage treasures. The dining area buzzes with energy, featuring a mix of seating options and a clear view of the kitchen, all beneath a suspended industrial ceiling illuminated by woven string lights, creating an inviting al fresco atmosphere. A striking mural of Roman statues adds an artistic touch, paying homage to the restaurant’s heritage.
Piccolo Buco’s menu showcases a delightful array of traditional Italian favorites alongside innovative interpretations. Signature dishes include Luca’s “Red, Yellow or White” pizza, known for its crisp yet cloud-like dough, and starters like Mama Luca’s Meatballs and Crispy Stuffed Squash Blossoms. For those seeking a modern twist, entrees such as Cacio e Pepe and Truffle Fondue Cappellacci are sure to impress. And no Italian meal would be complete without dessert—guests can indulge in Mama Luca’s Tiramisu and Chicago’s own Raffaello Gelato.
In addition to its dinner offerings, the lunch menu features a selection of Sardinian sandwiches made with the restaurant’s signature pizza dough. Cooper’s Hawk wine club members will also enjoy exclusive perks at all Piccolo Buco locations.
To celebrate the grand opening, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on October 18th at 4:30 PM, featuring Lee R. Pierson Jr., President of the Carrollwood Area Business Association, along with McEnery and Chef Issa.
Location & Hours:
- Address: 14904 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 11 AM – 9 PM; Friday & Saturday, 11 AM – 10 PM
- Lunch Menu: Daily, 11 AM – 3:30 PM
- Happy Hour: Monday – Thursday, 2 PM – 5:30 PM
- Phone: 656-233-9470
- Reservations: Open Table
For more information, visit Piccolo Buco’s website or follow them on Instagram @piccolobuco and Facebook.
As the anticipation builds for this new culinary gem, Piccolo Buco is set to become a beloved addition to Tampa’s vibrant dining scene, inviting guests to savor the flavors of Italy in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.