Florida's first Piccolo Buco opens in Carrollwood

• It is one of three locations in the U.S. and the first to open in Florida.

State of plate: It aims for an upscale feel, but it has a suburban looseness. It's in Carrollwood, after all, and though you may succumb to the temptation to dress up as I did, you'll find that most tables keep it casual.

• There's a hostess to check in with, and a reservation is encouraged, but while you wait for a table, there's an ample selection of wine to enjoy.

Best bites: I started with an order of crispy stuffed squash blossoms ($18.99), made with four cheeses, a lemon aioli and tomato fondue. It came with four delectable pieces and tasted like tempura.

• In terms of price, it's in the middle of the pack for appetizers. Piccolo Buco's tomato bisque and pasta fagioli are more affordable, at $9.99 each.
• Next, I ordered the braised short ribs ($33.99), which easily pulled apart with a fork and arrived atop a bed of mascarpone polenta and spinach.

The verdict: The food is delicious, with a menu that offers both affordable and high-end options.