If you’re a fan of Cooper’s Hawk and let’s be honest, who in Tampa isn’t? we’ve got some major news for you. The brand behind that wine club you love has quietly opened a brand new concept, and Tampa is one of the very first cities in America to get one.
Have you driven down N Dale Mabry in Carrollwood and seen the name Piccolo Buco?
If you thought it was just another new Italian spot, think again. This is “Piccolo Buco by Cooper’s Hawk,” an authentic Roman-style pizzeria and an elevated new dining experience from the brand.
And when we say “exclusive,” we mean it.
As of right now, there are only three Piccolo Buco locations in the entire country two in Illinois (Oak Brook and Naperville) and now, one right here in Tampa. This isn’t just a new restaurant; it’s the very first one in all of Florida, and it’s a massive win for the Tampa food scene.
So, What’s the Story?
This isn’t just a “Cooper’s Hawk” restaurant with a different name. This concept is a direct collaboration with Chef Luca Issa, the owner of the famed Piccolo Buco pizzeria in Rome, located just steps from the historic Trevi Fountain.
Cooper’s Hawk founder Tim McEnery fell in love with the restaurant on a trip to Italy and set out to bring its unique pizza experience to the U.S.
It’s All About the Pizza (But Not Just the Pizza)
The main event at Piccolo Buco is the pizza, which is a modern, contemporary take on Neapolitan-style. The signature feature is its massive, airy, “crown-like” crust that’s crispy on the outside and unbelievably light and soft on the inside.
They are using high-quality ingredients imported directly from Italy to get that authentic Roman flavor.
While the pizza is the star, the menu is a full-on upscale Italian experience. You’ll also find:
• Antipasti like Stuffed Squash Blossoms
• Hearty pastas like Mezzi Rigatoni Alla Vodka
• Main dishes, including Braised Short Ribs and Norwegian Salmon
And, of course, it’s all designed to pair perfectly with the Cooper’s Hawk wine list. (Yes, Wine Club members, your benefits apply here!)
The Takeaway
This is a huge deal for our city. Instead of launching in Miami or Orlando, this major brand chose Tampa (14904 N Dale Mabry Hwy, to be exact) as the first spot in Florida for their exciting new concept.
If you’re looking for a new date night spot or want to be the first of your friends to try the next big thing in Tampa’s food scene, this is it.
We want to know: Have you been to Piccolo Buco yet? Are you a Cooper’s Hawk fan excited to try it? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
