Panini Opa
About Panini Opa
Panini Opa brings a dynamic fusion of Greek and Italian street food to the Columbus area, offering a menu that celebrates fresh, high-quality ingredients and made-to-order dishes. The name itself, “Opa,” is a common Greek expression of joy and enthusiasm—the feeling they hope every customer experiences.
While their full-service locations offer a wide range of options, the North Market Bridge Park spot focuses on a condensed, powerhouse menu featuring their popular signature dishes. Expect higher-end, elevated burgers (like Wagyu, Bison, Chicken, and an impressive Ahi Tuna burger with a nice big filet), along with delicious wings, pasta, salads, and, of course, their namesake paninis.
The culinary concept—blending Greek and Italian influences—is rooted in the similarity of the ingredients and the owners’ desire to create food that appeals to and satisfies everyone. They are fiercely committed to freshness, often choosing their own produce to ensure the highest quality in every bite.
How Did the Idea Come About?
The journey that led to the phenomenon of Panini Opa began with co-owner Orian, who arrived in the U.S. from Greece in 2001. Orian spent years working in various restaurants, building his expertise and saving for his own venture. He, his wife, and his son, Danny Trifoni, eventually opened the successful Greek Corner on Rt 161 & Sawmill. Its popularity soon allowed them to open a second location on Lane Avenue.
It was during this period of success that Orian and his eventual main business partner, Ilias, were approached to develop the concept for Panini Opa. They immediately knew they had something special. The first Panini Opa location opened its doors on Bethel Road in February 2012 and was an immediate hit, leading Orian and Ilias to sell Greek Corner to focus entirely on the new, booming business.
Following Panini Opa’s rapid success, the ownership group continued to grow its restaurant footprint, opening Koble (with locations in Powell and Westerville) and Stone Bar & Kitchen on Bethel Road, an elevated sports bar concept.
The opportunity to join the North Market came about when they were approached by the Market’s management, who immediately recognized Panini Opa as a great fit. Orian and Ilias had always admired the idea of a place like the North Market, valuing the diversity of customers they could reach, the distinct offerings from all the merchants, and the opportunity to build strong community relationships.
What Does Being a Part of the North Market Mean to You and the Business?
Joining the North Market community, particularly at the vibrant Bridge Park location, represents a pivotal and exciting step for Panini Opa. Compared to the complexities of running their other full-service restaurants, the Market setting simplifies things, allowing the team to focus intently on providing an excellent product and building meaningful connections.
For Orian, a crucial part of this expansion is ensuring his son, Danny, has a strong foundation and the opportunity to carry on the family’s entrepreneurial legacy.
The owners and the team are most looking forward to establishing a base of regulars and building the warm, personal relationships that define the North Market experience. They value the Market as a hub of culinary excellence and community, eagerly anticipating the chance to contribute their dynamic Greek and Italian street food to the mix.
The Story of Panini Opa and Klestor & Danny
The Bridge Park location marks the next exciting chapter for Panini Opa, and it will be primarily run by the next generation: Daniel Trifoni (Orian’s son) and Klestor Qose.
Daniel has grown up in the family business, learning the ropes from his father, Orian. Klestor has been an integral part of the Panini Opa family for over six years, mastering the recipes and the ethos of the brand. Together, they form a formidable team, ready to lead the daily operations at North Market Bridge Park, with guidance from Orian and Ilias whenever needed.
Since the debut of the first location in 2012, Panini Opa has demonstrated a consistent ability to “crush it,” and the future is bright. The Bridge Park location, opening in just a couple of weeks, is the newest addition, quickly followed by another location planned for Bexley around February 2026.
With Daniel and Klestor at the helm, the spirit of Panini Opa—freshness, quality, family, and that contagious feeling of “Opa!”—is set to become a beloved staple of the Bridge Park community.