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.

Now they’re looking for a few talented people: Open auditions for our singing waiters, waitresses, bartenders, host/hostess and bus boys will take place on November 1st and 2nd from 1-6pm at 1227 Walnut. Please tell anyone that you know who loves to sing and would like to be a part of this. We just hired our Musical Director – Jeremiah Downes and he will lead the cast of servers. The entire staff will take turns singing from the Great American Songbook, songs from the 1920’s-1960’s. So a constant show included in the price of a great meal!