pat pianetto’s pizzeria

Pat Pianetto’s Pizzeria - Chicago’s Tavern-Style Pizza Made Its Way To Tampa Bay!

By Carla M. Dubis Tedeschi

It’s cool to be square! Serving Chicago classic “Tavern-style” pizza since the 1950s and ranked top 10 pizzerias in America by CNBC news, Pat’s Pizza is now open right here in Tampa Bay!

Family-owned and operated by Nikko Pianetto and Gil Loera, this iconic and multiple award-winning pizzeria is a “dream come true,” for Nikko and the perfect way to keep an incredible family tradition alive.

Real Chicagoans know the truth, “tavern-style” and not “deep-dish” pizza is Chicago’s most famous and most consumed style of pizza.

Designed as a bite-sized “bar snack,” tavern-style pizza became popular for its delicious crispy taste, small party cuts, and the convenience of enjoying it with one hand while still holding your beer or a young child with the other!

“Couldn’t be happier here. Really what more can you ask for. The pizza is of award-winning quality. They are family-oriented,” says local guide Javier B. on his recent 5-star review on google. “The staff is super friendly and caring. The location is awesome. Having this place in the area is amazing. Normally you’d have to be on vacation to get pizza this good”

“I’ve been working in restaurants my whole life. Ever since I could reach the counters,” says Nikko with a smile on his face, all while YouTube videos of him making pizzas as a young kid at Pat’s original Pizzeria in Chicago, played on a flat-screen TV located in the back of the restaurant. “Owning my own pizzeria was always my childhood dream. I’m grateful to have such wonderful people around and so happy to be able to serve the Tampa bay community. Not everyone gets to relieve their best childhood memories, and I get to do that every day.”

“Not only was this the best pizza I have ever had, but the staff was super pleasant and the entire experience was amazing,” says Joe W. on his five-star google review. “I met the owner as well, he was very nice and welcoming. It’s clear he takes great pride in his business and you can see in the quality of his pizzas. 10/10!!!”

Nikko’s 12-year-old son Jin is already following in his father’s footsteps, assisting in the kitchen and even greeting customers. “I am extremely blessed and proud to be able to teach my kids about hard honest work while passing on our family traditions,” added Nikko.

Decorated murals representing the Pianetto’s

family 72-year journey in the pizza and restaurant business adorn the walls of this local “nine-paper-thin” pizzeria, which is quickly gaining recognition as one of the best pizza places in town!

“Absolutely fantastic pizza. Beautiful thin crust and delicious cheese. Arguably the best pizza in the Tampa area,” says Joey Khalife, in his recent five-star review. “The whole team is attentive and kind. Happy to have a place like this around us.” Conveniently located at the same plaza as the AMC movie theater, think about this neighborhood gem as your perfect destination for a casual lunch, a family gathering, or a romantic date night for dinner before or after a movie.

Local Food Guide, El West, says, “Amazing pizza, great atmosphere. We tried a pizza and calamari, both were delicious. This has become our new place to go before hitting the movies in the same plaza! So glad we stopped to try. Pizza so good I couldn’t get a picture until half was eaten!” Also serving mouthwatering appetizers like fried calamari, and baked goat, as well as amazing salads, traditional Italian sandwiches, and scrumptious desserts like an incredible Nutella and S’mores pizza, there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy. They also have a kid’s menu aimed at those under 12, offering chicken strips, smaller-sized pizzas, and other delicious and healthy options. “Great pizza but even better Italian Beefs … exactly the way they’re made in Chicago’” says Brian M. “Plus they have all the toppings you’ll ever need. Great atmosphere, very pleasant and accommodating staff. A+. Several visits and many more to come!”

Nikko and Gil would like to personally thank the community for their incredible support. “We couldn’t have done it without you, we’re here for you and because of you. We can’t wait to serve you and your loved ones. We will take good care of you, hope to see you soon!”

Pat Pianetto’s Pizzeria is located at 3150 Tampa Rd Oldsmar, FL 34677. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays. Please check https:// www.facebook.com/ PatPPizzeriaTampa for more information, a full menu, and the most up-todate hours of operation, or call 727-330-6678.