FAMILY AFFAIR: The Momo family is proud of Mediterra Restaurant and Taverna’s enduring reputation, leading to a 30th anniversary. Shown are family members at the time of the opening in 1996. From left are brothers Carlo, Venanzio, Raoul, and Anthony. Their mother, Teresa, is in the foreground.

By Jean Stratton

Thirty years ago, Mediterra Restaurant and Taverna led a cultural and culinary renaissance when it opened its doors at 29 Hulfish Street in the summer of 1996.

It is still leading the way today as it celebrates a milestone anniversary, and continues to provide a Mediterranean cuisine featuring Spanish, Italian, Greek, and Egyptian influences, among others.

“We combine these influences with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and pair them with an ever-evolving selection of exceptional wines, both fine and approachable,” says Raoul Momo, who with his brother Carlo, founded Mediterra. “Every dish, every pour, and every detail, reflects our commitment to quality.”

The brothers had already opened Teresa Caffe (named for their mother) on Palmer Square in 1991, and its Italian menu had become very popular. “When we decided to open Mediterra, the strategy was going to be different,” continues Raoul. “We didn’t want to duplicate Teresa’s, but to expand the concept.”

MEDITERRA MAGIC: Mediterra Restaurant and Taverna is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, offering healthy and tasty choices with Spanish, Italian, Greek, and Egyptian influences, among others. Shown is a selection of delicious dishes. “Our culinary philosophy is simple yet inspired,” explain Mediterra’s owners. ”We celebrate the flavors of nearly two dozen cultures surrounding the Mediterranean — or as we like to say: ‘Wherever the olive grows!’ — with special emphasis on our Spanish and Italian roots.”

Healthy and Delicious

When Mediterra opened, many people had heard of the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, but perhaps had not experienced it firsthand. The Momo brothers introduced a new dining opportunity for a new clientele.

“With a focus on fresh vegetables, seafood, and of course, olive oil, we wanted to provide a healthy and delicious menu,” explains Raoul. “Also, when people come here, they are willing to try out different dishes. For example, we have a tapas bar, which was new to some people.”

Tapas, similar to appetizers, are a Spanish specialty, he points out. They include a variety of items, such as olives, mushrooms, stuffed peppers, assorted cheeses, vegetable turnovers, and fritatas. Customers can relax with their tapas at the bar or at small tables in the informal taverna setting.

“Tapas have become real favorites,” continues Raoul. “Among the most popular are Patatas Bravas, with fried potato, manchego aioli, and salsa brava.”

Other favorites are local Corn Espanada, Moroccan Meatball, Fried Halloumi, and for those who like to dip, Terra Momo Bread with extra virgin olive oil and seasoning.

“Our menu continues to evolve,” points out Raoul, “but the focus is always on healthy choices that appeal to the customers.”

Creative Process

The menu is vegetarian friendly, with vegan and gluten-free options, adds Chef Emily Kirstein, who has been with Mediterra for 12 years. “We can accommodate customers’ special dietary needs, and there is great attention to detail. For example, we make our own pasta.”

She enjoys the creative process, she continues. “We have special recipes, and I continue to create new ones, with very fresh ingredients. We always try to focus on local sources. I really enjoy creating new dishes, including desserts. Creating new dishes for customers to enjoy is so important. We always want to offer the best quality to everyone who comes here.”

Another important aspect of Mediterra’s success is its consistency emphasizes Anthony Momo, who is the general manager, and owner with his brothers, of the restaurant. “Customers know that they can count on us. If they have friends from out of town, they know they can bring them here for a quality dining experience.

“Also, in addition to our quality food and wine, we have a very professional and knowledgeable staff. Many have been with us for a long time.”

Round Tables

And the customers keep coming, that’s for sure! From Princeton, the area and beyond, many are loyal, longstanding patrons. There are regulars and repeats, as well as those new to Mediterra, who are discovering its unique flavors.

When they come in, they will find a spacious, yet intimate, setting, with a motif emphasizing wood (including exposed beams), forest green, deep blue, and seating for 112 within the handsome main dining room, as well as in the informal bar and taverna area. A plus for many diners is a number of round tables, which offer more companionable surroundings, especially when there are several people dining together.

Mediterra also offers rooms for private parties, as well as seating for 80 on its charming outdoor patio.

And then, what to eat? Choices abound, all guaranteed to please the palate.

Popular entree selections include the Paella Classico (for two or more), featuring Calasparra rice, saffron, roasted pepper, peas, carrots, pork chorizo, chicken, shrimp, sea scallops, and calamari.

Other favored dishes are house-made Lumache with white vodka sauce, fennel chicken sausage, basil, and parmigiano; and Local Chicken with garlic rice, pinto bean, local corn salad, aji verde, cilantro, and lime.

Seafood is a big focus. “We have three choices of fresh fish on the menu every day,” points out Kirstein. Among them could be
Nordic blue salmon, branzino, and grilled Florida swordfish.

Sweet Tooth

Those with a sweet tooth will not be disappointed at Mediterra’s selection. Favorites include flourless chocolate cake with raspberry compote; also blueberry crisp, featuring toasted oat, lemon, and bent spoon vegan vanilla ice cream (fruit selection can change seasonally). The butterscotch budino custard never fails to please, with its amoretti crunch and sea salt.

Beverages include tea and coffee (cappuccino, latte, espresso, and Americano) as well as selections from the full bar, which also offers a Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. Selected discounts are available.

“Our wines are very popular,” says Raoul, “and also the sangria is a real favorite. And we have the full selection of cocktails.”

Prices at Mediterra cover a range, with tapas from $3 and dinner entrees from $25. The lunch menu offers different choices and prices. “We offer value for quality, and we try to remain as price sensitive as possible,” he adds. “At Mediterra, your comfort, enjoyment, and satisfaction are our top priorities.”

The Momo brothers are proud of the success of their entire restaurant operation, not only of Mediterra,
but the aforementioned Teresa Caffe (now Teresa’s Pizza | Wine Bar), Eno Terra, and Terra Momo Bread Company, now located in Pennington.

“Two of Raoul’s sons, Gianni and Luke, have joined the business, at Eno Terra and Teresa’s respectively, and Carlo’s daughter Alessandra is also at Eno Terra,” reports Anthony. “We are very proud that another generation will continue what we started, and wants to see the legacy continue.”

Community Support

The Momos are grateful for the community support over the years, and as Raoul points out, this was especially apparent during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During the most difficult years when the pandemic began, and lockdown occurred, and when the state lifted the closure, the way our patrons, partners, and community supported us and our team was amazing. We bounced back and remained in business when so many closed. It was a wonderful surprise; one patron told me: ‘It’s because of all you do for the community.’”

Looking ahead, Raoul, Carlo, and Anthony are enthusiastic about Mediterra’s future. “The key is to listen to guests and adapt to their needs. And when you are passionate about great food and wine, and sharing that with our patrons, it is a labor of love, especially when they appreciate it. Every day brings a new opportunity, and we are always learning all the time. Time flies over 30 years, but it seems like a lot less when you enjoy every day!”

They also point out that a series of celebrations and events to mark the 30th anniversary will be held throughout the year.

Lunch, dinner, and takeout are available, and there is a special menu for Sunday brunch. Reservations are recommended.

Mediterra is open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For further information, call (609) 252-9680. Visit the website at mediterraresraurant.com.