Local Life

Retro TGIF Shot of Frank’s Bar & Rumson Spirits

Tony and Frank Mellaci pour shots and cheer at Frank’s Bar in Rumson circa 1950s
Photo/courtesy of Jim Mellaci

When doing the TGIF thing, everyone could use a little shot of cheer, good spirits and great memories to kick off the weekend.

And that’s what’s right here with a snapshot back in time to the 1940s and the iconic Frank’s Bar in Rumson, manned by none other than Rumson icons themselves, Tony and Frank Mellaci.

Yes, back in the 1940s and for many years before and after, Frank Mellaci kept the door wide open at his little River Road post-prohibition tavern welcoming Rumsonite regulars and anyone else who happened to have what we’re told was the great fortune to wander on in.

When of age and out of RFH, Frank’s high school football star son, Tony, became part of the Mellaci bar- and community-tending team. The team’s magic touch left an imprint for many lifetimes to come.

So, cheers to the weekend and a shot of great memories at the hands of iconic Rumsonites!

Know anyone who frequented Frank’s? What was your favorite tavern in the area back in the day? Who was your favorite tavern owner? Bartender?

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