Food

Cooper’s Hawk opens Piccolo Buco concept in Tampa this month

The team behind beloved Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants will open the third location of their Piccolo Buco concept in Tampa this month.

For the unfamiliar, Piccolo Buco is a dining option that, according to a press release, “captures the essence of Rome.” The restaurant is in partnership with Chef Luca Issa, owner of the OG Piccolo Buco in Rome. Tim McEnery, founder of Cooper’s Hawk, stumbled upon the OG restaurant while traveling in Rome and wanted to bring that experience to Cooper’s Hawk wine club members and guests.

“Tampa is a perfect fit for Piccolo Buco’s authentic approach to pizza and Italian dining.,” said Tim McEnery, CEO/Founder of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants. “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 sits about 150 seats inside and about 50 outside in an enclosed patio.

Piccolo Buco’s menu highlights traditional Italian dishes alongside more innovative versions. Signature meals include Luca’s “Red, Yellow or White” pizza with a crisp, cloud-like dough and tall crust. Appetizers include Mama Luca’s Meatballs, Crispy Stuffed Squash Blossoms and Crispy Calamari. Modern Roman-style entrees include dishes like Cacio e Pepe, Truffle Fondue Cappellacci and Braised Short Ribs. Leave room for dessert: Mama Luca’s Tiramisu, Amalfi Pound Cake and Chicago’s own, Raffaello Gelato are up for those who need a little something sweet after dinner. An extensive wine selection includes both Italian varietals and Cooper’s Hawk’s own award-winning wines.

Lunch features several Sardinian sandwiches made with the signature pizza dough. Cooper’s Hawk wine club members can also enjoy all their perks of being a member at Piccolo Buco.

An official ribbon cutting will happen with President of the Carrollwood Area Business Association Lee R. Pierson Jr., Tim McEnery, and Luca Issa on Saturday, October 18th at 4:30 p.m.

Find Piccolo Buco at 14904 N Dale Mabry Hwy. in Carrollwood. Their days and hours of operation are: Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (all day menu) Lunch Menu: Daily, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Happy Hour: Monday-Thursday 2 p.m.- 5:30 p.m.

Reservations can be made on OpenTable. Follow Piccolo Buco on IG @piccolobuco on Facebook @PiccoloBucoByCH. Peruse the menu on their website to find what you like.

Header photo courtesy c/o Piccolo Buco’s FB