Fresh Italian Flavors Unveiled: Jay Luigi SoHo Launches Exciting New Lunch & Happy Hour in Tampa!

 

Tampa, FL – The culinary pulse of South Tampa's vibrant SoHo district just got a significant boost of Italian flair! Jay Luigi, the stylish Italian eatery at 516 S Howard Ave, already known for its fresh pasta and artisanal pizzas, is thrilled to announce the launch of its brand-new daily lunch service, which officially kicked off on April 22, 2025, and a recently debuted "Apertivo Hour" that started in early May. These exciting new offerings are set to redefine midday dining and after-work unwinding, making Jay Luigi an even more compelling destination for those seeking a delicious and healthy lunch in Tampa with an Italian twist, and a top-tier contender for the best happy hour in Tampa.

This dual launch signals Jay Luigi's commitment to serving "Italia all day," providing SoHo residents and visitors with more opportunities to experience their unique blend of modern and traditional Italian cuisine. Backed by the innovative Ciccio Restaurant Group (CRG) and a collaboration with Forbici Modern Italian co-founder Jason Brunetti and CRG Executive Chef Luis Flores, Jay Luigi is all about fresh, high-quality ingredients and a "lighter, healthier" approach to Italian dining.

"Italia All Day": Jay Luigi SoHo Debuts a Dedicated Lunch Experience

Responding to the demand for sophisticated yet accessible midday meal options, Jay Luigi's new lunch service, running Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., is a breath of fresh air for the healthy lunch in Tampa scene. The menu is far from a scaled-back version of dinner; instead, it features nearly three dozen thoughtfully crafted dishes designed to delight.

Patrons can indulge in upscale twists on casual favorites, including supremely affordable $11 lunch combos that offer fantastic value. Popular combinations include the "Palino Pizza and Salad special" (two slices of their signature Queen Stella or Nevaeh pizza paired with any side salad), a "Half Sandwich & Daily Soup" option, or a "Half Sandwich & Side Salad."

The sandwich selection itself is noteworthy, served on their naturally fermented sourdough. The "Prosciutto Caprese Sandwich" is a symphony of prosciutto, bufala mozzarella, tomato conserva, arugula, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic reduction. Another highlight is the new "Milanese Sandwich," featuring breaded chicken breast, grana padano, tomato conserva, arugula, and lemon.

For those seeking a truly healthy lunch in Tampa without compromising on flavor, Jay Luigi’s fresh salads are a perfect choice. "Jay's Caesar" elevates the classic with dried black cherry, Marcona almonds, house-made croutons, and a cured egg yolk crumble, while the "Luca" salad offers a vibrant plant-based and gluten-free mix of kale, romaine, Marcona almonds, dried cherry, and a cashew-balsamic vinaigrette. Their Roman-style pizzas, with a light and airy naturally fermented sourdough crust (made with flour and yeast imported from Italy), also make for a delightful and shareable lunch. Of course, their house-made fresh pastas are available, with options like a simple yet perfect Pomodoro or the classic Cacio e Pepe providing satisfying Italian comfort. Numerous plant-based and gluten-free accommodations ensure that all dietary preferences are thoughtfully catered to.

Raise a Spritz! Jay Luigi SoHo Introduces Its "Apertivo Hour" – Tampa's Newest Happy Hour Destination

Adding to the excitement, Jay Luigi SoHo has just unveiled its "Apertivo Hour," which quickly became the talk of the Happy Hour Tampa scene since its early May 2025 launch. Running every Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., this is an authentic Italian happy hour experience designed for unwinding in style.

The drink specials are crafted to evoke the spirit of Italy. Guests can sip on an $8 Limoncello Spritz, enjoy $6 house wines, or explore $12 craft cocktails, including unique creations like the Pistachio Espresso Martini – a delightfully Mediterranean treat.

But what truly sets this apart and positions it as a candidate for the best happy hour in Tampa is the quality and value of the food offerings. Jay Luigi extends its culinary excellence to its happy hour menu, featuring exclusive treats like "Brunetti Polpette" (flavorful meatball sliders) and "Smashed Truffle Fingerlings," each priced at an accessible $8. For those wanting a more substantial bite, three different artisanal pizzas are available for just $12 each, with "The Daisy" (carbonara sauce, mozzarella, bacon, egg, grana padano, and fresh black pepper) being a notable favorite. Additionally, three varieties of their signature house-made pastas, including the popular Pomodoro and the classic Cacio e Pepe (with an added touch of panko bread crumbs), are also offered at $12 each. These aren't your average happy hour snacks; they are gourmet Italian dishes at exceptional prices.

The sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance of Jay Luigi SoHo, with its Italian-imported décor – think elegant chandeliers, sconces, and Venetian plaster – provides the perfect setting to enjoy these "Apertivo Hour" delights.

The Jay Luigi Promise: Freshness, Quality, and Modern Italian Flair

Underpinning both the new lunch and happy hour services is Jay Luigi's unwavering commitment to its core principles. The emphasis on house-made pasta, crafted fresh daily, and the unique naturally fermented sourdough pizza crust ensures a superior taste and texture. The meticulous sourcing of high-quality ingredients, including those imported from Italy, speaks to their dedication to authenticity. This focus on "lighter, healthier Italian cuisine" means that indulging in their offerings feels both satisfying and good.

The SoHo Ambiance: Perfect Setting for Midday Escapes and Evening Toasts

Jay Luigi’s SoHo location is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience. The carefully designed interior, reflecting a modern Italian sensibility, creates an atmosphere that is at once chic and inviting. Whether you’re stepping in for a productive business lunch, a leisurely midday meal with friends, or to unwind during the new "Apertivo Hour," the setting enhances the occasion. The attention to detail, from the lighting to the comfortable seating and the overall aesthetic, makes Jay Luigi a standout destination on South Howard Avenue.

A CRG Signature: Innovation in Tampa's Dining Scene

These exciting new launches at Jay Luigi are a clear reflection of the innovative spirit of the Ciccio Restaurant Group. CRG has a long-standing reputation in Tampa for developing concepts that are not only popular but also consistently push the envelope in terms of quality, freshness, and guest experience. Jay Luigi, with its unique blend of authentic Italian traditions and modern, health-conscious sensibilities, perfectly embodies this forward-thinking approach.

Conclusion: Be Among the First to Savor Jay Luigi SoHo’s New Offerings!

The debut of daily lunch service and the brand-new "Apertivo Hour" at Jay Luigi SoHo is fantastic news for Tampa’s food lovers. It brings even more opportunities to experience their delightful take on "lighter, healthier" Italian cuisine. Whether you’re in search of an exceptional healthy lunch in Tampa that transports you to Italy, or eager to discover what might just be the best happy hour in Tampa with its authentic bites and sophisticated sips, Jay Luigi is ready to welcome you. Don’t miss the chance to be among the first to indulge in these exciting new offerings – your taste buds will thank you!