Tony's Taverna, a new Greek-style restaurant in Three Rivers, celebrated a grand opening over the weekend. Photo via Tulare County RMA

For many, the drive to Three Rivers is both scenic and relaxing; for Tony and Maritza Konnaris, the drive is what got them to where they are today — cutting the ribbon on a new restaurant. 

The owners behind Tony’s Taverna relocated from Southern California during the pandemic. They started a food truck that’s now a full-fledged brick-and-mortar restaurant, serving up Greek cuisine at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Starting life as a roadside food truck on Highway 198, Tony’s Taverna celebrated its grand opening Oct. 4. Featuring Greek-inspired design in everything from its menu to decor, the restaurant looks to transform the former We Three Bakery location into a Santorini-style restaurant, from the Greek island.

The menu was developed by Chef Ryan Rusie and Konnaris, along with other local talent, and is complemented by baker Phree Corrall. Tony’s Taverna on Wheels — the couple’s food truck — features traditional Greek gyro sandwiches and falafel pita sandwiches, along with local favorites such as smash burgers, rib eye sandwiches and fish n’ chips.

A soft opening took place last week, where friends, family and locals were given a chance to sample a menu built on the couple’s hand-picked, high-quality ingredients. 

“Among the business support services the Tulare County Economic Development Office (EDO) provides, such as for business expansion and regional business attraction, our team often collaborates with local chambers to help increase awareness of new or expanding businesses,” Tulare County Resource Management Agency (RMA) Associate Director Michael Washam said in a release.

The restaurant now features covered patio seating. The renovation was supported by the Tulare County RMA, which often helps projects from the planning phase all the way to opening.

In addition to expanding the business site, Tony’s Taverna also looks to stimulate the local economy, hiring 40 staff members in addition to Tony’s Taverna on Wheels’ seven existing positions.

“Tony’s Taverna represents the very best of what we hope to see in Tulare County: entrepreneurship, culture, and community coming together in a way that enriches us all,” said Supervisor Eddie Valero. “I am proud to celebrate this grand opening and the opportunities it brings for both residents and visitors alike.”

Despite boasting a population of just over 2,000, Three Rivers, which sits at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, sees approximately two-million visitors each year, often on the way to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Tony’s Taverna is located at 43368 Sierra Dr., in Three Rivers. For more information about the restaurant, including the grand opening event on Saturday, check out their Facebook and Instagram.