A new Mediterranean restaurant with Greek influences has opened in downtown Somerville, replacing the former Central Pizzeria with a completely renovated space designed to evoke the atmosphere of Santorini.
Dafina, located at 126 W. Main St., held its grand opening last month, after opening to the public weeks earlier.
Owner Skender “Kenny” Gjevukaj said the restaurant was well received by the community, with Somerville Mayor Brian Gallagher, neighbors and local business people attending the celebration.
Gjevukaj said he and his brother, Sokol “Gino” Gjevukaj, a chef trained in Croatia, opened in downtown Somerville because they see the borough as a “growing, up-and-coming town with great energy.”
Gjevukaj said the seafood-oriented menu focuses on Mediterranean cuisine prepared with lighter cooking methods, including pan-seared and lightly grilled dishes without heavy sauces. The menu also includes veal chops, pasta dishes and dry-aged beef.
The restaurant features a full bar with wine, beer and cocktails, and welcomes both reservations and walk-ins.
Manager Danilo Shota said the cozy atmosphere of the fine dining establishment is complemented by a DJ playing “chill house music.”
The restaurant operates seven days a week, opening at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday and closing at 10 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, hours extend until 11 p.m., while Sunday hours are 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The space can accommodate private events for groups ranging from 10 to 200 people.
Gjevukaj said he wants customers to “have a great experience and think about us when they go home.”
He added, “we treat everyone with the same care … it doesn’t matter how much or how litter they spend.“
The brothers own several other restaurants, including Barka Mediterranean Seafood and Steak in Mountain Lakes, Aurora Restaurant and Bar in Old Tappan, BellaRosa Freestyle Italian Cuisine in Parsippany, Sear House in Closter, Sear House Grill in Little Falls, and Dimora in Norwood.
Dining and Cooking