Portofino’s Restaurant is located at 6407 Ringgold Road, just a couple blocks from the I-75 interchange. They have been there for many years, serving great Greek and Italian dishes, a salad bar, and pizza. But, a little known event happens on the last Saturday night each month and it is fun. (Actually, it is a very well-known event and sells out) They call it Greek Night at Portofino’s and they pack the place with diners that not only want the good food served there, but also want some fun music, belly dancers, and a great time. It truly is an event.
This Saturday, they celebrate their 20th year in East Ridge, with owner Dimitris Agrafiotis making the rounds through the tables, insuring everyone has a good time and a good meal.
The entertainment is provided by Terry and the Grecian Echoes, featuring a Bouzouki and a keyboard. A Bouzouki resembles a mandolin in appearance and somewhat in sound. I heard this duo last month and was thoroughly impressed. The Greek songs they play are fun, folks get up and dance, and these two musicians really know how to entertain a crowd. The Bouzouki player strolls through the restaurant, often stopping at tables to play a few bars of a song. The crowd really gets into it, too.
As Billy Mays used to say in the Vegamatic commercial, “But wait, there’s more”! And there is – two beautiful belly dancers also entertain the dining room to the music of Terry and Grecian Echoes. Portofino’s transports you to Greece with the music, food and dancing. It truly is a fun time and all at very reasonable prices. I love their Italian Chicken Parmesan, along with the great bread and olive oil dip. I think it is like $7.95 and every bit as good as any in town at double the price. Top it off with a cold beer or a glass of fine wine and the evening is complete!
Now, here is where reading my column really pays off - If you want to go to Greek Night at Portofino’s, then you better have a reservation. It is always busy at Portofino’s, but Greek Night is a sell-out. It’s simple and takes only 1 minute – call 423-499-9696. They have a Facebook page too. You can visit it at https://www.facebook.com/eastridgeportofinos .
For local music info, try www.chattanoogaentertainers.com or www.chattanooganightscope.com. They both have great local music info and schedules. For local info on Country music, try Jim Boles’ site www.chattacountry.ning.com.
Email Bob Payne at davrik2000@yahoo.com or catch him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/davrik2000 .
Bob Payne
- Photo2 by Zero Mostel