TAVERNA, a popular dining concept known for its authentic Greek cuisine, is set to expand its reach to San Francisco. The restaurant, which currently operates at 800 Emerson Street in Palo Alto, recently opened a new location in Portola Valley, taking over a space that previously housed Old Port Lobster Shack. Owner Thanasis Pashalidis has expressed ambitions to continue growing the brand, with San Francisco as the next target.
According to a report from Palo Alto Online, Pashalidis is enthusiastic about the prospects of bringing TAVERNA’s culinary offerings to a broader audience. He stated, “My goal is to make people happy and to continue making people happy.” This sentiment reflects his commitment to delivering an enjoyable dining experience to customers.
About TAVERNA’s Unique Offerings
Since its inception in April 2018, TAVERNA has positioned itself as a beloved destination for Greek cuisine in downtown Palo Alto. The restaurant, founded by Pashalidis and his longtime friend Hakan Bala, combines rustic Greek traditions with modern culinary techniques. Their vision is to craft dishes that not only highlight the rich flavors of Greece but also incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The menu features a range of farm-to-table options, showcasing small plates like the Greek Village Salad, tzatziki, and crispy zucchini cakes. For heartier appetites, TAVERNA offers grilled Spanish octopus salad and lamb rib chops, sourced from Superior Farms in Sacramento, alongside cast-iron cooked Greek meatballs. The selection is designed to provide an authentic taste of Greece while catering to contemporary palates.
Drinks and Dining Experience
The beverage menu complements the food offerings with a variety of choices, including “Greek takes on classic cocktails,” California wines, biodynamic Greek wines, and selections from France and Italy. Pashalidis emphasizes the restaurant’s philosophy: “(We serve) handcrafted food that’s made with passion and locally sourced ingredients and, first and foremost, an experience that transports you to Greece.”
As TAVERNA prepares to make its mark in San Francisco, the local dining scene anticipates a new culinary journey that promises to blend authenticity with innovation. Interested diners can follow updates on TAVERNA’s expansion through platforms like What Now San Francisco on Facebook.