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)
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)
Papadakis Taverna has fed celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Tom Hanks. (Ricardo DeAratanha / Los Angeles Times)
