For decades, Donatello’s has stood as one of Tampa’s most beloved fine-dining institutions, offering an authentic and deeply personal expression of Italian cuisine. Located in the heart of Tampa, the restaurant is more than a place to dine—it is a living tribute to regional Italian cooking, family heritage, and time-honored recipes passed down through generations. Over the years, Donatello’s has also become a discreet favorite among thousands of high-profile guests, with celebrities including Drake choosing the restaurant for its timeless atmosphere and uncompromising quality.
Founded by the late Guido Tiozzo, a native of Venice, Donatello’s was built on the philosophy that Italian food should reflect both geography and soul. Today, that legacy continues under the leadership of his son, Gino Tiozzo, who has preserved the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity while ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Tampa’s culinary scene.
The menu is a carefully curated journey through Italy. From the south, guests are introduced to dishes inspired by Naples and the Amalfi Coast, including Calamari Amalfitana—chilled calamari dressed in olive oil, garlic, lemon, and parsley—and Capelli al Pomodoro, angel hair pasta with a classic tomato and basil sauce. Roman favorites follow, such as Scottadita alla Romana, grilled lamb chops finished with rosemary and garlic, and the iconic Saltimbocca, veal scaloppine sautéed with prosciutto and sage in a white wine sauce.
Moving north, Florence is represented with the Fracosta al Chianti, a 14-ounce New York strip finished with onion, sage, and Chianti wine sauce. Milan’s influence is showcased in Donatello’s signature Osso Buco Milanese—slow-braised veal shank served with saffron risotto. Finally, Venice takes center stage with delicate fried baby calamari, Linguine alle Vongole, and Risotto di Pesce, a seafood-rich risotto honoring the Tiozzo family’s roots.
With an extensive menu built on century-old recipes, Donatello’s remains a timeless destination where Tampa diners experience Italy not just through flavor, but through history, tradition, and family.
