By John Crisafulli aka Johnny C The Pizza Guy
Taverna Mykonos in Elmwood Park is more than a family-owned restaurant; it is a place where you become part of the Greek family. As soon as you step in, owner Giorgos “George” Roukas, extends his hand to welcome you. The restaurant offers a comfortable and unforgettable fine dining experience, and their authentic Greek cuisine will leave you craving more.
A must-try dish on the menu is the octopus. It features sushi-quality Mediterranean octopus grilled with onions, red wine vinegar, and EVOO. The perfectly cooked and seasoned octopus is cut into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to enjoy. Another highlight is the Saganaki, a pan-seared Kefalograviera cheese with EVOO and a fresh lemon juice finish. Highly recommended are the Hummus and Lentil Soup. The bread and Greek Olive Oil for dipping are full of flavor, and the Greek Salad is fresh and packed with Feta.
Taverna Mykonos also offers catering services, and during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, George increased home deliveries to ensure his customers could savor their authentic cuisine in the comfort of their own homes. The restaurant boasts a full bar with an extensive selection of Greek wines, with approximately 80% sourced from regions across Greece, as well as other excellent choices from California and Spain.
Giorgos’ background is inspiring and moving. He arrived in America in 1978 with his entire family and worked several jobs, including selling hot dogs. Starting with a hot dog pushcart in Manhattan, he grew the business to over 40 pushcarts throughout Central Park and Battery Park. George learned that making his customers happy is of utmost importance, and he wants them to feel at home when dining at Taverna Mykonos.
Giorgos’ message to all Greeks in New Jersey, America, and the world is to take pride in their culture and keep it alive. He encourages everyone to teach their children and grandchildren about their heritage. Taverna Mykonos is a place where you can experience authentic Greek cuisine and become part of the Greek family.
