NYC News
Stratis Morfogen Turns Up the Heat on NYC Fine Greek Dining with Pappas Taverna
February 19, 2023, 8:09.07 pm ET
Photos: Pappas Taverna
Restaurateur Stratis Morfogen is going back to his roots with Pappas Taverna. It’s the name of the Greek restaurant opened in New York by his grandfather in 1910. The restaurant is located on a busy strip of MacDougal Street in the former Panchitos space, just steps away from Minetta Tavern. Morfogen’s partner in the project is star chef Todd English.
Adding to the ambiance are authentic Greek wood burning ovens covered in iridescent blue tiles where much of the food is prepared. The menu is divided into different categories like “Mini Clay Pots” where diners are offered a choice of three items ranging from Edamame Feta and Carrot Hummus to Lentil Spread Whipped Tahini and Toasted Corn Raita.
Small plates meant for sharing include Lobster Roll Spanakopita with spinach dip and crispy kataifi; Zucchini Kebabs with feta and crushed pepper; and Charred Octopus Souvlaki with red wine and spicy tzatziki. Greek Style “Pappas” Originals include Lamb & Lemony Potato Pot Pie with filo crust, and Dad’s Stuffed Sole Rolls with spinach, feta, citrus beurre blanc, and fried caper berries
From the oak wood burning oven emerge whole fish (branzino, halibut, barbounia, dover sole and more) and prime meats (porterhouse, NY strip, bone in filet mignon, Colorado lamb chops and a 40oz “Pappas” tomahawk). Also on the menu, Duck Shawarma carved tableside and Orzo King “Crab O’Nara” for two. For dessert, there is Baklava & Galaktoboureko “filo” Spring Rolls, and Dried Cherry Loukoumades; among others.
Cocktails also draw inspiration from Greece like the Athena’s Bramble with Bombay Sapphire, lemon juice, strawberry purée & lemongrass syrup; and Mykonosca with Greygoose, simple syrup, lemon juice & club soda.
Sculptures, some depicting Greek Gods, like snake-filled Medusa line the walls of this manicured dining space with blue banquettes and white tablecloths adding to this fine dining experience you will find at Pappas Taverna.
For more information, visit theoriginalpappas.com
LATEST NYC NEWS

Andrew Lloyd Webber’ Makes Surprise Cameo During Performance of Sunset Blvd.
April 26, 2025, 10:21 am ET
Exclusive video captures Andrew Lloyd Webber’s surprise cameo during last night’s performance of Sunset Blvd. at the St. James Theatre, earning a standing ovation from the crowd. Later, ... READ MORE

Dinner at 53 in Midtown
April 25, 2025, 3:45 pm ET
Step into 53 and you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. This sleek, three-level space in Midtown layers its luxury: a dramatic arched dining room at street level, a glowing subterranean l... READ MORE

NYC to Celebrate Car-Free Earth Day with 54 Streets Closed to Traffic
April 25, 2025, 2:03 pm ET
Image: NYC DOT New York City will go car-free on Saturday, April 26, for its annual Earth Day celebration, closing 54 streets and plazas across all five boroughs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM through its ... READ MORE