The Violet Stone’s new, larger location is officially open in St. Pete
/
St. Pete’s favorite Philly-style pizza joint, The Violet Stone, has officially opened in a much larger, more prominent location. So say goodbye to long lines, sold-out signs by noon, and eating pizza on the hood of your car.
The new restaurant, located at 2609 Dr. MLK Jr. Street North, debuted on Wednesday, and brings with it an expanded menu, upgraded kitchen, and seating for up to 100 guests, both indoors and out.
The Violet Stone has come a long way since it launched as a food truck in 2022. After outgrowing the truck, owner Daniel Fekete set up shop in a small 800-square-foot space in Kenwood.
That original space had no air conditioning and just a few chairs and tables. Now, the team is settling into a 2,100-square-foot spot that finally matches Fekete’s vision for the restaurant.
Read More
Bocelli Modern Italian, the South Tampa restaurant known for its housemade pastas, live music, and Utica-style chicken riggies, is opening a second location in downtown Largo.
The restaurant is planned for 40 West Bay Drive at Horizon West Bay, Largo’s new mixed-use development anchored by City Hall.
Managing Partner Michael Mythack said Bocelli hopes to open between March and April 2027.
The 6,400-square-foot restaurant will include a full-liquor bar, private dining room, outdoor seating, and a larger kitchen than the South Tampa location.
Mythack said the Largo location, which is currently in the design and permitting phase, will carry forward the feel of Bocelli’s South Tampa restaurant, which he describes as an approachable, family-oriented neighborhood restaurant rather than a white-tablecloth fine-dining destination.
“We’re not upscale. We’re mid-scale,” Mythack said in a conversation with St. Pete Rising. “We’re a neighborhood restaurant in South Tampa. It’s nice inside. The aesthetic is beautiful. We have live music three days a week.”