Oronzo Midtown 1120 Gramercy Ln. D-200, Tampa Fast-casual Italian chain Oronzo closed its location in Midtown last March. A collaboration between Dan Bavaro, owner of Bavaro’s Pizza, and Bob Johnston, CEO of Front Burner Brands, the company told the Tampa Bay Business Journal that the location has struggled since launching during the COVID-9 pandemic. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closure of Oronzo,” the letter states. “Since our opening in 2020, during the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have strived to bring you an uncommon Italian culinary experience and a welcoming atmosphere. However, despite our best efforts and the unwavering support of our local community and dedicated team, we find ourselves facing the difficult decision to close our doors.” Photo via Oronzo/Instagram Credit: Photo via Oronzo/Instagram

Just a year after opening, Oronzo is hiking its pasta, pizza and burritos over to Midtown Tampa for the opening of its second location.

The deal was signed last September, according to the Tampa Bay Business Journal, though no opening timeline had been announced for the space at the time. The concept’s website is now teasing a fall opening for this year.

"Midtown was in our sights when we started to develop Oronzo," founder Dan Bavaro told TBBJ. "It just happened to work out with timing, and after meeting the developers, we think it’s a strong fit."

Whether you’re looking for a sit down date or a quick bite and shopping time, Midtown can deliver. The 22-acre site at 3740 Midtown Dr., is also home to other local eateries like soon-to-open Ponte Tampa and Sal Y Mar, and national brands like the Brass Tap, a huge Whole Foods and even Sephora.

Oronzo, a spinoff concept brought to you by the owner of St. Pete pizza staple Bavaro’s, specializes in made-from-scratch italian fare (including soup and all the ‘za you can handle), and even offers italian burritos and plenty of bowl options if you’re looking for something lighter.

For all the latest, you can follow the concept’s Instagram (@oronzoitalian) and Facebook to keep up with all the latest.

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