Rooted in Tradition (1974)
The story of Marina’s Pizza & Pasta doesn't actually begin in Florida—it begins in New York.
In 1974, the Colandrea family immigrated to the United States, bringing with them a treasure trove of authentic, old-school Italian recipes. They opened their very first family pizzeria up north, building a foundation on hand-tossed dough, slow-simmered sauces, and an unwavering commitment to quality, care, and love.
Planting Roots in Westchase (2003)
Decades later, that same passion for authentic Italian comfort food found a new home in Tampa. In 2003, the family officially opened the doors to Marina’s Pizza & Pasta in the heart of Westchase.
The vision was simple: bring a genuine slice of New York-style pizza and classic Italian hospitality to a growing, vibrant Florida community.
Every morning since opening day, the kitchen has come alive with the same routine—making dough fresh from scratch and prepping ingredients with the exact same dedication passed down through generations.
More Than a Restaurant: A Community Pillar
From the very beginning, the family knew that being a true neighborhood staple meant doing more than just feeding people—it meant lifting the community up.
Over the last two decades, Marina’s has grown into a proud partner for Westchase and the surrounding Tampa area.
"We don’t just serve the community; we are a part of it."
Marina's has consistently poured love back into the neighborhood by supporting the pillars that hold it together:
• Local Schools: Partnering with Westchase-area schools for spirit nights, sports team sponsorships, and end-of-year celebrations.
• Faith Communities: Providing support, catering, and fundraising help for local churches and religious organizations.
• Neighborhood Gathering Spot: Serving as the go-to Friday night tradition for local families, where kids grow up sharing slices and eventually bring their own families.
Today and Beyond
Now celebrating well over 20 years in business at their West Linebaugh Avenue location, Marina’s Pizza & Pasta remains family-owned and operated.
While the Westchase landscape has evolved around them, the promise at Marina's remains exactly the same as it was in 2003: classic Italian comfort, a warm family welcome, and a deep dedication to the community they call home.