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February 1, 2023 - A large group attended Joe’s Italian Restaurant’s New Member and Grand Opening ribbon cutting on Wednesday, February 1, 2023. Chamber Ambassador President Stephanie Elswick welcomed owners, Ben Ponari and Linda Metaliaj, to the downtown square, “We are very happy to welcome [Ben] and Linda to our community. We are very happy to have another restaurant on the square, and that’s Italian food. And we all love Italian food.” Elswick then presented them their new Chamber of Commerce membership plaque to proudly display.
Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors had some questions for the new owners. One question was concerning lunch specials and Linda advised they do have daily lunch specials available from 11am until 3pm. Lunch specials are Lasagna, Manicotti, Cannelloni, Spaghetti, and Ziti Napolitan (spicy marinara sauce) for $9.99.
Joe’s Italian Restaurant is a family owned business and they have three other locations in Texas: El Campo, Temple and Killeen. Ben Ponari has been the owner for 8 years but has been in business for 10 years and is the manager of the Center location. They offer an extensive menu including appetizers, salads, pizza, subs, pasta, seafood entrees and dessert. They also have kid friendly menu options.
From left: Owners, Ben Ponari and Linda Metaliaj, and Chamber Ambassador President Stephanie Elswick
Joe’s Italian Restaurant is located at 130 Nacogdoches Street in Center on the Historic Downtown Square and is open Tuesday through Sunday 11:00 am until 9:00 pm. Available options are dine in or carry out. Catering available. Find them online on Facebook at Joe’s Italian Restaurant - Center, TX or call 936-427-5009.
