Authentic Greek Cuisine comes to East Haddam
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
By David DeLucia
There's a new restaurant in town that fills a long-standing absence - authentic Greek cuisine made from scratch and lovingly prepared.
Thena Pita Bar on 25 Falls Rd. in Moodus is the brainchild of Niko Papathanasiou and Sarah Turker. They were married in 2019 in Greece and have a two-year-old girl, Penelope. Since 2016, their award-winning food truck, Greekin' Out, has offered delicious gyros to a very appreciative clientele. Currently the food truck is being utilized for special events and catering only, while all the couple’s energy is centered on supporting the new restaurant, which opened in mid-May.
Thena Pita Bar is unique in that all the meat is painstakingly hand stacked, just as it is done in Greece. This gives Niko and Sarah total control over the flavoring and texture. The menu features four different gyros, including the popular crispy chicken, which includes tomato, onion, fries, and honey mustard wrapped in a warm pita.
While the gyros are tasty and a customer favorite, Niko and Sarah are particularly proud of their Souvlaki plates. The grilled pork, for example features classic pork skewers grilled and served with pita, fries, and a choice of three dipping sauces.
Even children can indulge at the Thena Pita Bar. There are four kids' meals, including the Bifteki platter, grilled burger seasoned with Greek herbs and served with plain fries. Let's not forget dessert, the menu features baklava, orange semolina cake, chocolate mousse cake, and ekmek, a crispy pastry layered with custard, whipped cream, and chopped nuts.
The Thena Pita Bar is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Niko is extremely grateful “that the community has been insanely welcoming, making us feel right at home.” There is a sign at the front of the restaurant that has dollar bills attached to it, each with a personalized message.
For more information or to place an order, call 860-891-8024 or visit www.thenapitabar.com.
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