By Sandra Zunino
This weekend, The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille is the place to be. Originally opened in 2006, The Greene Turtle is holding a Three-Day Open House, a grand re-opening of sorts, to introduce the restaurant’s new dynamic transformation.
“We have a new look, new management team and many new, local staff members who are proud of our changes,” says Greene Turtle Marketing Coordinator Matthew Wyble, “We’re putting Easton’s Greene Turtle back on the map, and we want to show locals that this is the place to be.”
Promising the biggest party on the Easter Shore, Greene Turtle festivities start Friday with free hors d’oeuvres, happy hour drink specials from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and two live bands. Sam’O and JFC will play reggae on the Turtle’s new patio from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Three Penny Opera, voted Eastern Shore’s best band in 2009 takes over from 9:00 p.m. to midnight.
On Saturday, amid televised college football games, Guitar Hero contestants of all ages and skill levels face off starting at noon. A similar contest held last summer at The Turtle drew about a hundred participants and Matt says he expects twice that number this time. A portion of the proceeds from the contest, sponsored by local marathon team Jen’s Gems, benefits Maryland’s Ronald McDonald House.
As if that’s not enough activity, Acoustic Cover Soloist Jordan Page plays at the Turtle from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, of course, is NFL Day with Ravens and Redskins games, more raffles and food and drink specials. Still Counting, from Ellicott City will close the house starting at 9:00 while listeners enjoy $3 mixed drinks.
Raffles and door prizes will continue throughout the three-day celebration. Among the prizes will be 15 chances to win free wings for a year. Ravens and Redskins tickets will be raffled on Friday and Sunday. While winners must be present to win, no purchase is necessary. “Everyone who comes in enters the raffles for free,” says Matthew.
Easton’s Greene Turtle took over the old Big Batts location three years ago. Until now, some of the prior restaurant’s themed décor remained. With the remodel, the restaurant is now 100 percent Turtle, says Matthew. A franchise since 2005, there are now 23 Greene Turtles in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia and Washington D.C.
Founded in Ocean City in 1975, original Greene Turtle owners were inspired to open the sports-themed restaurant after visiting the Bahamas where they encountered a beach bar on Greene Turtle Island. “They enjoyed their time so much, they opened up their own bar in homage,” says Matthew.
Besides its reputation as a rockin’ sports bar, The Greene Turtle offers hearty American pub dishes for reasonable prices. Recognizing present day tough times, the Greene Turtle offers generous specials daily.
Philly Cheesesteaks are only $5 on Mondays, and $5 burgers are available on Tuesdays. While Wednesdays offer half-priced wings, Friday side salads are just a dollar. On weekends, select appetizers are 25 to 30 percent off their regular price.
Customers never need worry about clipping coupons. Specials are available to everyone. Patrons can check the website to research specials in advance. Additionally, meal specials are available for carry out, offering restaurant-quality dinners at prices comparable to fast food.
For more information about The Greene Turtle, visit www.thegreeneturtle.com or call 410-763-7303.