Pete's Taverna Opens Doors In Riverhead With Food Trucks, Fun

RIVERHEAD, NY — It was opening night and a new chapter for Jennifer Harrison, who unveiled her next business, Pete's Taverna, on Thursday in Riverhead.

Harrison, who owned the Senix Creek Inn with her parents in Center Moriches from 2008 until the business closed in 2019, has followed her heart back to what she loves doing best — serving customers, and the community, all at the same time.

Pete's Taverna is located at 3225 Sound Avenue, in the back barn on the property. When asked why she set her sights on Riverhead, Harrison said her partner in the endeavor, Pete Moutafis, has been in business in the area for more than 30 years.

Harrison also has a lot of family in Riverhead, she said. "And when I saw the space, I fell in love with it."

Describing her vision for the tavern, Harrison said she sees a local clientele, "coming to enjoy a fun but relaxed atmosphere, dancing to live music, with new people meeting each other and coming together."

The business is a tavern but will feature food trucks, including the well-known Maui Chop House, outside. She hopes to find a breakfast/brunch truck to do jazz brunches on Saturdays and Sundays and a food truck with Greek fare, too.

Friday night, Pete's Taverna will feature a Kenny Chesney tribute band from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. And on Sunday, an Ugly Sweater/Holiday Karaoke party will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. A $10 donation is optional, or bring a new toy to donate to charity. The Maui Chop House food truck will be onhand along with Stingray Entertainment.

"I really hope to make this a big, annual event," she said.

When asked why she decided to embark upon the new venture, Harrison said, "I love giving everyone a place to have fun — and having a base to help people in need."

Giving back has always been important to Harrison and her plan is to continue her mission at Pete's Taverna.

Although she managed a few businesses before opening the tavern's doors, Harrison said: "This is my first time as an owner/partner where I can truly do what I do — and give back to the community the way we did at Senix Creek Inn," she said. "I’m so happy and so excited to provide a place that others enjoy and have the base location needed for community outreach."

Pete's Taverna, located in the back barn, will be open on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 1o p.m.