[Story No. 10] Take a Greek Odyssey in the Chelsea District

Where industrial warehouses once sat dormant, vibrant life has emerged in the Chelsea District. If you venture just a few blocks west from the Midtown Tunnel, you'll stumble upon a very unique neighborhood.

CHELSEA DISTRICT - noun - A boutique collection of breweries, eateries, and local shops which co-exist in a 10 block community on the western boundary of the City of Norfolk.

One of the longest standing establishments in this revitalized neighborhood is a restaurant known by several names over the past 50 years. Whether Orapax Greek Restaurant, Orapax Inn, or as most locals say, "let's go to Orapax". The Greek restaurant has held its position on the corner of Redgate & Orapax Avenues since 1966. When you first approach the building, you'll notice the prominent wooden door situated right on the corner. Once inside, your Greek Odyssey begins with an immediate trip to the Mediterranean islands as you take notice of the architecture, decor and surroundings. Upon finding your seat, the first step in the journey is a basket of fresh baked bread delivered to your table. A quick review of the menu reveals specialties that will make any guest anxious to order dinner -- more on that topic later. The founding family still operates Orapax even as new generations have grown up to take control of the restaurant.

On a personal note, my own family has made monthly trips to Orapax ever since I can remember. There's something very special about getting 8-10 people around a table with a good meal as backdrop. Conversations about professional accomplishments, recent vacations, and just life in general seem to take new meaning in the right culinary atmosphere.

BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO DINING

• Greek Salad -- Mixed greens, lettuce, tomato, red onions, bell peppers, cucumbers, topped with feta cheese, pepperoncini, kalamata olives, with homemade Greek dressing. Order the large -- bring 3 friends to share ($9.99)
• Gyro Pita -- Grilled lamb & beef, lettuce, tomato, red onions, yiahtzki sauce served in a warm pita (8.99)
• Spinach Pizza -- Freshly chopped spinach sauteed in olive oil ($16.99)
• Souvlaki -- Two 12 inch kabob skewers with charbroiled chicken, whole mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers ($14.99)

(Photo from Orapax Facebook page)

?The restaurant is currently undergoing a major renovation which will dramatically improve the physical layout of interior space. Later this Spring, guests will enjoy a brand new bar area, and improved outdoor patio. Get ready for the next 50 years of Orapax -- start your own Greek Odyssey by visiting 1300 Redgate Avenue this week.

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About the Series: Every week a local business or organization will be featured with the hope to tell their story here on LinkedIn. There are so many great restaurants, coffee shops, and retail venues in Hampton Roads that need a little help getting the word out to the public. The goal is to share a story, that will help people discover something new, whether a Downtown boutique or a beachfront bistro.

TechArk | Sail Nauticus | Cure Coffeehouse | Doumar's | Field Guide | Hummingbird Macarons | Grilled Cheese Bistro | Freemason Abbey | Sunrise Cafe | Orapax

About The Author: Fred Rose is a digital communication professional with a passion for brand storytelling. After beginning his career with the American Red Cross -- he has since worked with a variety of organizations to establish brand & advertising strategies.