"I worry about my customers," Popadopoulos said. "They work very hard, and money is tight these days."

Popadopoulos has seen many generations come into his restaurant, but as a result of the sharp downturn in the economy he is starting to see less and less of his regulars.

"People think they can't afford to go to a nice restaurant for dinner because it's too expensive. But people love coming to the Creekside Inn and sitting in a romantic atmosphere. Now more than ever families need to spend time together doing things they enjoy," Popadopoulos said.

To help his customers, Popadopoulos has lowered dinner prices.

"My customers need to be able to come in and have a nice dinner and know that it's not going to cost them so much," Popadopoulos said.

As an example, the chicken Marsala dinner is now $7.95, which includes boneless chicken sautéed with mushrooms and fresh garlic in Marsala wine and butter and served with the Creekside Inn's own cheese fondue appetizer.

Another dish that is being offered right now for $7.95 is Popadopoulos' own baked meatloaf, served with mashed potatoes.

"I have had several of my customers tell me that mine is the best meatloaf they have tasted outside of their own home. I take a lot of pride in that comment," Popadopoulos said.

Prices have also been lowered for dishes such as spaghetti and meatballs, the boneless pork dinner and the sirloin tips.

"One of the things that makes dinners at the Creekside Inn so special is the care we take when preparing the meals," Popadopoulos said.

One of those extra steps taken is the marinara sauce that he makes twice a week.

"It takes about eight hours to make the sauce. I have an old recipe that I've been using for many years now. My customers don't want to come here for a meal and get canned sauce," Popadopoulos said.

In addition to the new dinner prices, the Creekside Inn continues to serve "the best steak dinners in California," according to Popadopoulos.

"We also serve a great calamari dinner. It's the best brand of calamari you can get in California, and it's very fresh. We batter and bread it and then cook it until it's tender and delicious," Popadopoulos said.

For the adventurous type, the Creekside Inn still has karaoke nights on Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the bar area.

"We have many people who come in to sing on karaoke night. They have a great time, and our dining customers enjoy the entertainment," Popadopoulos said.

The special dinner prices are available Monday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

The Creekside Inn is located at 544 W. Alma at Highway 87. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. The Creekside Inn is closed Sundays. Lunch hours are weekdays from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Call 408.289.9781 for more information or reservations.