Local dining establishment TAVERNA, renowned for its authentic Greek cuisine, is set to expand its presence beyond Palo Alto. Following the recent opening of its second location in Portola Valley in March 2023, owner Thanasis Pashalidis has revealed plans to introduce a new restaurant in San Francisco.
The new Portola Valley location took over the space formerly occupied by the Old Port Lobster Shack at 3130 Alpine Road. Pashalidis expressed his ambition to extend the reach of TAVERNA, stating, “I hope to continue to expand TAVERNA, aiming next for San Francisco,” according to a report by the Journal.
Since its inception in April 2018, TAVERNA has become a beloved destination in downtown Palo Alto. Situated at 800 Emerson Street, this charming restaurant invites diners to experience a culinary journey through Greece. The establishment was founded by long-time friends Thanasis Pashalidis and Hakan Bala, who have successfully blended rustic Greek origins with modern culinary techniques.
TAVERNA’s menu features a range of farm-to-table, upscale Greek dishes. Diners can enjoy small plates such as the Greek Village Salad, tzatziki, and crispy zucchini cakes. The entree offerings include grilled Spanish octopus salad and lamb rib chops sourced from Superior Farms in Sacramento, as well as cast-iron cooked Greek meatballs. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create handcrafted meals.
In addition to its food, TAVERNA boasts a diverse beverage selection. Guests can choose from wines that include biodynamic Greek varieties, as well as selections from California, France, and Italy. The restaurant also offers unique cocktails inspired by traditional Greek flavors. Pashalidis emphasizes that TAVERNA is dedicated to providing an experience that transports diners to Greece.
“My goal is to make people happy and to continue making people happy,” Pashalidis remarked. This philosophy is reflected in both the food and the overall dining experience.
As TAVERNA prepares for its expansion into San Francisco, the restaurant’s commitment to authentic cuisine and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront. For those interested in updates and news regarding TAVERNA, following local news sources like What Now San Francisco on social media is advisable.
