A staple in San Marco is about to get upgraded with a whole new concept. And it will soon come in the form of fresh seafood.
An Italian local favorite, Taverna, is expanding with a second sister restaurant next door, Taverna Oceana. The concept will specialize in oysters and shellfish and include a raw bar. The original location will be at 1986 San Marco Blvd., while the new Taverna Oceana will be at 1988 San Marco Blvd.
The new restaurant is set to open at the beginning of the new year.
The restaurant is owned by spouses, Sam and Kiley Efron. Husband, Sam Efron, is the Chef and creating the new menu at Taverna Oceana. According to the Jacksonville Daily Record, Mediterranean, Asian, Latin, and American influences will inspire the dishes of the new concept.
“When Sam and I travel we love exploring delicious raw bars and experimenting with beautiful new wine pairings. Taverna Oceana will truly be an extension of what we offer at Taverna and will be a creative outlet for Chef Sam. ” Kiley Efron told the Record.
The new restaurant will have a champagne bar and host 78 seats where diners can watch their shellfish being prepared. There will also be a private dining room available to rent. Both restaurants can be accessed through an open passageway between them.