Tap dancer Fred Crawford is part of the entertainment at Papadakis Taverna in San Pedro. The Greek institution is closing Sunday after 37 years of serving the area. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
Owner John Papadakis dances with daughter Angeliki at the restaurant, which is a lot like its owner -- big, brash and loud. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
The owner’s son Taso serves saganaki, a flaming cheese dish, just one more way to add some flair to the restaurant. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
Violinist Tony Doria, who played with Frank Sinatra, performs for customers. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
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Belly dancer Roberta Khalil is part of the act at Papadakis Taverna. Owner John Papadakis follows her and another down the aisles, throwing dollar bills at them. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
A customer tips belly dancer Beverly Taylor. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
Owner John Papadakis pours a glass of wine for customer Janet Alonzo. “Sometimes I get tired of playing me,” he said. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
A bronze satuette of a Greek fisherman stands in the restaurant. The dinner house is a reflection of the owner’s personality. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
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Papadakis Taverna has fed celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Tom Hanks. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
