After months of anticipation, Emilio’s Italian Market is officially open in Historic Hyde Park. The family-run market first announced its concept in April.
Emilio’s Italian Market is inspired by a family restaurant in New York City, bringing that family legacy to Tampa through an Italian market.
Owner Joey Rainero wanted to keep his family’s history rooted in the concept by displaying family photos, the original refurbished Emilio’s sign and even the restaurant’s liquor license from the 1970s.
The original restaurant operated from 1961 to 1988 and welcomed more than just locals. Celebrities including The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan were known to sit in its booths.
Rainero grew up hearing stories about the restaurant and learning the family recipes, which helped him realize that Emilio’s legacy could live on in a new way.
The market will feature recipes passed down through generations, along with imported Italian goods, espresso, fresh pastries and more than 360 wines. Customers can also expect take-and-bake meals, fresh pasta and ingredients sourced from local cheesemakers.
Rather than serving prepared meals at tables, Rainero is creating an experience where customers can bring the Emilio’s experience home. The market will offer take-and-bake meals and cooking kits designed to help customers prepare a full Italian meal in their own kitchens.
Rainero first tried to secure the Hyde Park location in 2022 but was denied. That setback led him to launch his olive oil company, Costiera, which sells imported Italian olive oil paired with hand-painted ceramics from the Amalfi Coast online. The market will now carry Costiera products on its shelves.
Operating six days a week, Emilio’s Italian Market will bring a taste of Italy to Tampa while keeping the family legacy that started in New York City alive.
