A familiar local name is spreading its wings — literally.
Jaxx Sportsbar & Grill, a well-loved neighborhood spot near the Palmetto Walmart, has announced plans to open a second location called Jaxx Wing Co. The new restaurant is moving into the former Gianni’s Pizza Express space at 4927 96th St E, Palmetto, in The Shoppes at Moccasin Wallow.
Located about six miles north of the original Jaxx location, this new offshoot will be a smaller, fast-casual version of the popular sports bar. It will feature a small bar and just a few tables, making it a cozy stop for quick bites, drinks, and takeout. Jaxx Wing Co. will focus on one of their biggest crowd-pleasers: chicken wings.
Goodbye Pizza, Hello Wings
The new location comes following the recent closure of Gianni’s Pizza Express, which had been operating in the space since August 2024. The windows are now papered over, and a sign on the front door reads:
“This location is CLOSED. All rewards points/gift cards still redeemable at our main location of Gianni's Pizza & More at 4925 E. State Road 64, Bradenton 34208. Thank you for your patronage! Jaxx Wing Co. coming to this space SOON!”Though Gianni’s Pizza Express is now closed, owners Maia Surdez and her husband Todd continue to run Gianni’s Pizza & More in Bradenton. They previously owned Gianni’s American Trattoria in Sarasota as well, but sold that location earlier this year.
Before Gianni’s, the Palmetto unit was home to TK Grill & Barbecue, a Southern-style meat joint known for its massive smoker and “Beast Challenge” food platter. TK Grill originally opened in 2019 and developed a loyal following before closing in 2024.
A Community Staple Expands
Jaxx Sportsbar & Grill is no stranger to the Palmetto dining scene. It has become a local favorite for sports fans, thanks to its many TVs, full bar, and friendly neighborhood vibe, with frequent broadcasts of live NFL, college football, and basketball games. After Hurricane Milton hit in 2024, Jaxx was one of the few restaurants to remain open, offering comfort food and community support when it was most needed.
Now, Jaxx Wing Co. is set to bring their signature wings to a new part of town, just off Moccasin Wallow Road, west of I-75.
An official opening date has not yet been announced, but signs are up and remodeling is underway. Locals can expect more of what they love from Jaxx, just in a smaller, wings-first package.
Jaxx Wing Co.
Coming soon to 4927 96th St E, Palmetto, FL 34221
