Jimmy Ciaccio credits his father, Gaspar Ciaccio, with teaching him key elements to running a successful business. Take pride in what you do, have a strong work ethic, treat your employees with respect, and take good care of your customers.
Those are the qualities that built the Temple Terrace Lounge, a business Gaspar and Fano Ciaccio started in 1960. In 1989, Jimmy took over and renamed it the Temple Terrace Cigar Bar and Grille. “My dad taught me everything I know and there’s a passion in everything I do – the same passion my dad had,” Jimmy said. “He was a good businessman.”
After his father passed away in 2002, Jimmy again changed the name to “Gaspar’s Patio Bar & Grille” in honor of his dad. Eleven years later, Gaspar’s continues to evolve, adding a pocket billiards room, a renovated patio with a Key West atmosphere, and a new and improved Liquor Shoppe, stocked with rare and premium spirits, craft beers, and select wines. Gaspar’s is rich with history and has become a Temple Terrace landmark.
Gaspar’s Patio Bar & Grille recently won five first place awards — best burger, best happy hour, best pub/bar, best wings and best live entertainment/nightclub — in the Best of Temple Terrace contest, presented by the Temple Terrace News.
Jimmy says, “I want people come in here to leave their problems at home and that’s what I tell my employees”.
In addition to crediting his father and uncle for their guidance in getting him where he is today, he’s quick to acknowledge his employees for their part in making the business a success.
Come visit Gaspar’s Patio Bar and Grille and Liquor Shoppe and experience the history and one of Tampa’s most enjoyable places to have good food, meet friends, hear live music, and relax. We hope to see you soon!
