Tony's Tacos opens in Franklin Square

When a small pink and yellow sign with “Tony’s Tacos Mexican and Italian Cantina” went up on a storefront on Jericho Turnpike in Floral Park, passersby might not have known what to expect. But, two years and three taquerias later, people know exactly what to expect. 

Mike Scotto’s Tony’s Tacos, which serves flour tortillas stuffed with Italian specialties, has opened its newest and biggest location yet, flipping a former Franklin Square bar into a space packed with bright colors and natural light.

Since its inception, Tony’s menu has nearly tripled to include chicken, pork, shrimp, fish and vegetable tacos, with combinations such as the Bolognese (ground beef, caramelized onions, melted cheese, red peppers, mushrooms and jalapeño), grilled octopus with mashed potatoes, black beans, caramelized onions, arugula, basil sauce and Asiago cheese; and a cauliflower taco with a mozzarella tortilla.

In true Scotto fashion, you won't find traditional birria tacos, but rather an Italian riff on it called the scarpetta: toasted garlic and oil tortillas with Angus beef, a four-cheese sauce, pomodoro sauce and cilantro (three for $15.50). Other tacos range from $5.50 to $6.30. 

There’s also newly introduced loaded fries, something Scotto says is up and coming in his native Italy. He’s started with seven varieties ($8.50-$15.50), such as cheeseburger fries with ground beef, melted cheese, lettuce, pico, spicy mayo and ketchup.

Alongside mains, you’ll find guacamole and chips, rice and beans and codfish nuggets. Margaritas, frozen alcoholic drinks and beer will be available soon.

The main dining room holds 40 people. Come summer, Scotto plans to debut an outdoor deck with seating for an additional 36 people.

Tony’s Tacos is at 677 Hempstead Tpke. in Franklin Square. It’s open Mondays to Thursdays 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sundays from 10:45 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. More info: 516-407-3500; tonystaco.com