PORTOFINO’S Back From Vacation BECOMES ….

A sign went up at one of my fav Italian restaurants Portofino (1227 Walnut St. Philadelphia PA 19107 ) this summer that said they were going on vacation and would be opening soon…Then in early October another sign appeared..
Now I can reveal that Portofino is now going to be called THE Walnut Street Supper Club! James McManaman (aka Jimmy McMan) is teaming up with Ralph Berarducci to open The Walnut Street Supper Club at 1227 Walnut Street. The restaurant will serve dinner seven nights a week in its expansive dining room, with floor and mezzanine seating, all overlooking a nostalgic stage where the magic happens.
James is a Jed Nolan’s Music Hall & Yesterday’s Restaurant alumnus, who has spent 25 years in the Hotel/Restaurant management industry. His experience in concept restaurant development and hands-on operations are a perfect fit when teamed up with the culinary expertise of his partner Ralph Berarducci. “It has been a long time dream of mine, to bring the magic of singing waiters and waitresses to Philadelphia” says James.
Ralph is a successful restaurateur who has owned and operated successful restaurants in the Philadelphia area over the last 40 years. His attention to detail and his “Italian” style of guest service is part of what has made his restaurants so successful in Philadelphia.
“I was ready for an exciting change, and wanted to bring entertainment to the city” says Ralph Berarducci.
Whoa cool concept! I love to see all the activity and changes around this part of town (13th St.). Given that it's so central to everything I always wondered when this neighborhood would finally reach its tipping point.
Hello Everyone,
This is a simple reminder that Open Auditions for our singing staff begin tomorrow…1-6PM at the Holiday Inn Express at 1305 Walnut Street (7th Floor) We are hiring singing waiters, waitresses, bus boys, bartenders, host/hostesses and Assistant Managers.
What about rappers? Are you auditioning them?
Were there rappers in the 20s to 60s, fool? The closest thing to rappers back then was Hooked On Phonics, if it was around at that time!