tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56641586041714460162024-03-05T05:29:26.916-05:00The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJThe National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-81409188085560820692017-07-31T09:32:00.000-04:002017-07-31T09:38:12.573-04:00EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY OF BEING PART OF THE FABRIC OF FRENCHTOWN<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Grateful. It's the word that comes to mind. EIGHT YEARS AGO TODAY, with fresh keys in hand after all the legal and financial meetings to make the purchase of <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> a reality, we stand hand-in-hand not only with our daughters (now in college), but with the Frenchtown community.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LulbXwU-MC5nxYr_J7ShMNKhToAu0GpwqoOvfpjqhpj2ZNh6T516e035vGMQCQibW_TVqsVyvXvYAlVa30l5YR1pnyQDGUQh1SwUlqSwX932LB6sx0e5PR_iPDTswiVCyl1TfxgHn9Y/s1600/The+National+Hotel+7-17-09+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LulbXwU-MC5nxYr_J7ShMNKhToAu0GpwqoOvfpjqhpj2ZNh6T516e035vGMQCQibW_TVqsVyvXvYAlVa30l5YR1pnyQDGUQh1SwUlqSwX932LB6sx0e5PR_iPDTswiVCyl1TfxgHn9Y/s200/The+National+Hotel+7-17-09+003.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 2009, shuttered</td></tr>
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Our lives have become immensely intertwined and joyfully transformed. And The National Hotel--the edifice itself--appears to have taken on new life, breathing, singing, embracing. This is a complete metamorphosis from how we found the building, shuttered for nearly 18 months, with renovations that awaited us, and challenges we had no idea we'd have to face.<br />
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It's trite, but honest: We had, and continue to have, a love affair with this <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/hotelHistory.html" target="_blank">grand old establishment</a>. Every step of the way, every room that had to be renovated, refurbished, and restored, was just another chapter in the lives we were building that would include each of us. In a small way or in a big way, our daughters, Pete, and I, along with so many friends and friends-yet-to-be-made in and around Frenchtown, contributed to the business we are proud to call our home away from home, in the very best little gem of a town anywhere in the world.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAqnAfCWRw_H8I28x_D4E45njCWGYeUeUQQ36i9A9R0ftlr0pXzkqklXwZ7EdijBgI1Cc6FSGNB1RFa_RLd_odU8XUQP6RJiBPowgqF1Kein2rqcx06SwlxTAwp4GQI1lEKl5Jf954ug/s1600/TNH+Gay+Pride+2017+exterior.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAqnAfCWRw_H8I28x_D4E45njCWGYeUeUQQ36i9A9R0ftlr0pXzkqklXwZ7EdijBgI1Cc6FSGNB1RFa_RLd_odU8XUQP6RJiBPowgqF1Kein2rqcx06SwlxTAwp4GQI1lEKl5Jf954ug/s320/TNH+Gay+Pride+2017+exterior.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turning the corner onto Race Street from <br />
Route 12 during Gay Pride month</td></tr>
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Every time we drive down Route 12 into Frenchtown, with the beautiful vistas of Pennsylvania across and behind Frenchtown, we remark at the beauty of this part of the world. "People pay money to vacation where we call home," Pete has often remarked to me. True. Simply true.<br />
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Today, we have new programs and events to announce. Remember to get up-to-the-minute information by liking our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/thenationalhotelnj" target="_blank">facebook</a> page. Stay tuned for more information on our upcoming evenings that will be filled with music, but for now, please mark your calendars with the following:<br />
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<li>Tuesday: Bi-Weekly Trivia continues in The Rat on August 8th, 8 - 10pm</li>
<li>Wednesday:</li>
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<li><span style="color: red;"><b>Announcing </b></span>half-priced appetizers and drinks will now be available in <b>BOTH our bars </b>(upstairs and in The Rat): 4 - 7pm</li>
<li>Karaoke in The Rat: 8pm - midnight</li>
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<li>Thursday: </li>
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<li><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Weekend Additions to the Menu</a> are posted (Thursday - Sunday)!!</li>
<li>Weekly Open Mic night, 9pm - ?</li>
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<li>Friday: <b><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Spotlight Friday Music Series <span style="color: red;">launch</span></a>!!</b> </li>
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<li>August 4th: Join Mike Wojk and his Trio of Madness starts </li>
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<li>Saturday:</li>
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<li>Prix-fixe <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">BRUNCH</a>: 10am - 1pm</li>
<li>Saturday Night Live Music series: August 5th--Scofflaw with Mojo Creeksnake and Jesse Ketchel</li>
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<li>Sunday:</li>
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<li>Prix-fixe <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">BRUNCH</a>: 10am - 1pm</li>
<li><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoon series <b>RETURNS</b></a>: August 6th--Steve Myers on our Front Porch</li>
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Eight years later, we have learned the ebb and flow of life near the Delaware River, always with the support of our Frenchtown community. From bringing music back into the building, to adding new programming to engender that sense of community that is inexplicable in so many other towns and cities, it has always been the Frenchtown residents and the surrounding communities who have come to our aid and who have buoyed our spirits. THANK YOU!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">As always, p</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">lease continue to </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;"> us with your feedback, leave a comment on this blog, and stay up-to-date with everything being planned, by checking our </span><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">website</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">, calling us at 908.996.3200 or: </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"> Thank you again for your continued support and patronage.</span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com231 Race St, Frenchtown, NJ 08825, USA40.5271671 -75.0604256000000315.0051326 -116.36901960000003 66.0492016 -33.751831600000031tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-83131402115801748682017-02-10T17:18:00.004-05:002017-02-10T17:18:41.527-05:00VALENTINE'S DAY EXTENDED TO THE PRE-VALENTINE'S WEEKEND!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Before I could even acknowledge the New Year, I see March already ready to run away with the end of February. The pages on our calendars turn much too fast these days. I suppose the older I get the more I will find myself trying to hold onto just a few more minutes from the present. Living in the present, securely embracing the moment--each moment--is my goal for 2017. There are so many wonderful neighbors that Pete and I have had the privilege of getting to know in <a href="http://delawarerivertowns.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Frenchtown</span></a>; so many new faces that have already become frequent guests this month; so many things for which to be grateful.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyuUVz15LEbT8VNQYhRqkLbYu-X_ztbzsOG-1HlyULE5icixDQCNLnmJFwdhDexVvIc66TFFBoQaCHwIk_gZ9SL_saK7O6CAVqVUpec7m63vE8uTn_xFeD_ly-wWXlN2kjfOQEhoLcTMA/s1600/free-vintage-valentine-card-two-kids-head-over-heels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyuUVz15LEbT8VNQYhRqkLbYu-X_ztbzsOG-1HlyULE5icixDQCNLnmJFwdhDexVvIc66TFFBoQaCHwIk_gZ9SL_saK7O6CAVqVUpec7m63vE8uTn_xFeD_ly-wWXlN2kjfOQEhoLcTMA/s320/free-vintage-valentine-card-two-kids-head-over-heels.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's in this spirit that Pete and I are pleased to announce our 4th annual <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;"><b>Valentine's Day Contest</b></span></a>, with three (3) great prizes to be awarded:</div>
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<li>one <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">overnight stay</span></a> at The National Hotel for two;</li>
<li>dinner for two in The National Hotel's <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Restaurant and Bar</span></a>;</li>
<li>dessert and after-dinner drinks for two in The National Hotel's <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/RestHours.aspx" target="_blank">Restaurant and Bar</a>.</li>
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So what do YOU have to do? Simple. <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Send</span></a> us a 250-word minimum/400-word maximum essay about the most meaningfully romantic moment of your relationship, and why you think your particular story is relevant to Frenchtown, NJ or any of the surrounding Hunterdon County, NJ or Bucks County, PA areas. Deadline for submission is Monday, February 13th, and winners will be announced on February 14th on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Frenchtown-NJ/The-National-Hotel/328084846347?ref=ts" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">facebook page</span></a>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Historic photo of original backyard of <br />The National Hotel, provided by a <br />descendant of the Apgar family.</td></tr>
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There is so much history and natural beauty in our little corner of the world, with the Delaware River providing countless poems and art renderings, to the sheer romance of establishments such as <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The National Hotel</span></a>, that has provided comfort to so many throughout its long history. And to us, Valentine's Day provides us with the opportunity to showcase the exquisite labor of love by our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/chefBio.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">executive chef</span></a>, Geoffrey Thomas. Our Valentine's Day menu that is available all weekend starting tonight, is a testament to his passion:</div>
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<a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOU6N6VO-5Ck1hiUvF9HJI8xx3D9Nywm4f1rJl-xcn9ae2S0KCZtqEe3y4q5tQgB2pzXQVgWlC7fT9FveJcxJQKSivMaoCZ1thqdQgXFX6v0iVtwPmHyTN1edkhyqDGoTfRdYcOa66tXc/s320/Screenshot+%252852%2529.png" width="241" /></a></div>
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Of course, between the live music this weekend featuring <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jimmy Garabo</span></a> on Saturday (9-11pm) and <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Gary Reed</span></a> on Sunday (5-7pm), you just can't go wrong with making Frenchtown your Valentine's Day/Valentine's Weekend destination!</div>
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Don't forget to make your reservations <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/reservations.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">NOW</span></a> so you can properly plan that special person in your life. Better yet, contact us via <a href="mailto:info@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email</a> or at 908.996.3200 and make it a getaway or a staycation, with our Valentine's Day exclusive <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">overnight packages</span></a>. You will not be disappointed. Our knowledgeable General Manager, <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/RestStaff.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Marlon Aranha</span></a>, will take care of every detail. With enough lead time, he could even schedule an appointment for massage sessions at <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Euphoria Studio</span></a>, designed exclusively for our overnight guests, just a short stroll from The National Hotel.</div>
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Our programs don't stop there, because we will have a post-<a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Valentine's Day special Karaoke</span></a> celebration on the 15th of February. FUN, all in caps!! Remember to join us for our weekly Thursday <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Open Mic Night</span></a> in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat), and every other Tuesday, catch our Bi-Weekly Trivia, but not February 21st, because we will be closed for our annual building re-fresh. This is when we close our doors for one week and do all the work that needs to happen to continue our high standards to better serve you when we reopen on February 28th. </div>
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Frenchtown provides so many choices, all unique, all sure to be memories you will long treasure. We hope to welcome you to The National Hotel in the very near future. And if you agree with us and have a little bit of time, please take a minute to vote for us in this year's Hunterdon Happenings List--just vote one time per email address in any (or all) of the categories listed below--and <b>THANK YOU</b> in advance for your help in sharing how much you care about The National Hotel:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/2017-places-hotel/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Best Hotel</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/2017-drink-specialty-cocktails/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Best Specialty Cocktails</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/2017-food-french-fries/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Best French Fries</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/2017-drink-happy-hour/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Best Happy Hour</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/2017-food-best-kept-secret/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Best Kept Secret</span></a></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.8px;">Please continue to send me your comments via </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.8px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.8px;"> or on this blog. I look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-67492072837606572492016-07-15T15:52:00.005-04:002016-07-15T15:52:58.295-04:00Family-Friendly Fun in Frenchtown<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's such a privilege to be able to provide top-notch service to our guests. As we approach the 7th anniversary since we received the keys to <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> later this month, we are so grateful for the opportunities that have come our way. Those keys did not only open the shuttered doors of The National Hotel; they unlocked a hidden gem within one of the <a href="http://www.northjersey.com/travel/frenchtown-one-of-new-jersey-s-best-kept-secrets-1.1629718" target="_blank">best kept secrets in New Jersey</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing cake created by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.m.haver" target="_blank">Stephanie Market Haver</a></td></tr>
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Through our involvement with so many patrons who choose to make The National Hotel a daily part of their lives, we have witnessed friendships blossom, and relationships deepen. This little historic building has its "finger" on the pulse of our quaint and unique Delaware River town. From being nominated as <a href="http://www.dvrhs.org/domain/741" target="_blank">Frenchtown School's</a> "favorite historic spot in town" by its students with a celebratory evening at Frenchtown's beautiful and thoughtful bookstore, <a href="http://www.bookgarden.biz/" target="_blank">The Book Garden</a>--which is an HONOR in and of itself!!!--to receiving the warmth and support of our vibrant community from day one seven years ago that has never wavered, we are in awe of our neighbors and the surrounding communities.<br />
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It's going to be such a joy being able to share in the festivities on the 16th! Pete and I hope that you'll carve out time to enjoy the annual Bastille Day family-friendly celebrations on Saturday. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/riverunionstage/?fref=ts" target="_blank">River Union Stage Puppet Show</a> behind <a href="https://www.facebook.com/frenchtownbookgarden/" target="_blank">The Book Garden</a> to live music and entertainment on the streets of town, it's sure to be an unforgettable day.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"Local Pogo-Stick Extreme athletes Nik Taylor and Henry Cebalus, students at New Hope Solebury High School, have performed for the Pope in Vatican City, on the Great Wall of China and at the Eiffel Tower in Paris! And now they will be bringing their show to Frenchtown thanks to Village Toy Shoppe!" [frenchtownnj.org] </span></span>There'll be a <span style="font-family: inherit;">"<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/bastille-day/" target="_blank">fashion show highlighting its je-ne-sais-quoi couture</a></span>,"</span> a stilt walker, a mime, and so much more. Considering the news recently, it feels so good to be able to celebrate France, to lift spirits, to share life, and to scream loudly, Vive la France!!</div>
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At The National Hotel, we're ready to roll out the carpet for you, with weekend <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Additions to the Menu</a> already posted, where you can catch the "action" while sitting on our front porch and cool off with "THE SUMMER BREEZE" (Stoli Raspberry, Chambord, Fresh Lemon Juice, Splash of Sprite and Club Soda, Lemon Wheel Garnish) and take a respite from the day's activities. The fun will continue through the night. <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">John Sontag</a> will perform live from 9-11 pm in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat), where the conversation is always lively, and everyone is welcome. And mark your calendars for Sunday's live music performance featuring the return of David Falcone (5-7 pm).<br />
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That's the beauty of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frenchtown,_New_Jersey" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a>. It's the human capital--it's the residents who share their lives with each other, who say "hello" to each other on the street, who care for neighbors and who are warm to visitors. now this is a town that has integrity! Join us!!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20.8px;">Please continue to send me your comments via </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="line-height: 20.8px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="line-height: 20.8px;"> or on this blog. I look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com031 Race St, Frenchtown, NJ 08825, USA40.5271671 -75.0604256000000316.0559441 -116.36901960000003 64.9983901 -33.751831600000031tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-42802359704670436342016-03-26T14:32:00.001-04:002016-03-26T14:32:10.436-04:00There's No Place Like Frenchtown, From Easter Fun, to Community Involvement, to Fun Nights in Town<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Photo courtesy of Frenchtown Lions Club fb page]</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Happy Spring! Yes, it's a little crisp outside, but boy, is it beautiful! Some of our neighbors already had the pleasure of participating in the town's annual </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Easter Egg Hunt</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> earlier today thanks to the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FrenchtownLions" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Frenchtown Lions Club</a><span style="text-align: justify;">! What a treat for all the little kids to experience this small-town event, where everyone comes together. </span><br />
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It truly is a perfect day to experience Frenchtown's natural beauty, just taking a leisurely stroll (or, OK, you can also take a run or bike ride...why not?!) down the <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">D&R Canal State Park</a> (a.k.a. the tow path) that runs parallel to the Delaware River and is the perfect way to take in the day's beauty. It's where one of our daughters loves to walk our beloved family dog (who turns 11 next week!)</div>
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<a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/" target="_blank">Frenchtown, NJ</a> is not just the location of our business, <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>, but moreover it is the nexus of our lives, where our children grew up strolling through Race and Bridge Streets, exploring Harrison and Trenton Streets, and always welcomed by all of the <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/shopping/" target="_blank">shops' owners and employees</a>. We hear this all the time when our Restaurant and Bar guests express how the town embraces them each time they come by, and even when they catch our live music in our cellar tavern, <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">The Rathskeller Pub</a> (a.k.a The Rat, The Frenchtown Underground), they always make a point of recognizing its friendly and inviting vibe. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Photo courtesy of Gary Reed]</td></tr>
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Tonight, our patrons will be able to experience this again, when <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Mike Chet Beck</a> performs live in The Rat (9-11 pm), while tomorrow we'll feature the return of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1696651683916036/" target="_blank">Gary Reed</a> in our Restaurant and Bar (5-7pm)! This and all of the weekly programs we are able to share with our vibrant community makes us proud to be a part of the fabric of Frenchtown.</div>
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Many of our guests will be celebrating Easter Sunday tomorrow and we're so pleased to be the chosen venue to mark this celebration. It is such a great testament to the relationship that our guests have built with the town, with us, and with neighbors from Frenchtown and visitors, whereby The National Hotel's <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">Easter Menu</a> will allow them to enjoy themselves while permitting us to cater to their every need. We are just incredibly honored--and we'll do our best to accommodate you if you still need to make a <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/reservations.aspx" target="_blank">reservation</a> for tomorrow, but do call soon please (908.996.3200).</div>
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It's truly amazing how the many weekly programs that we feature have started simply by a patron asking if he/she could test an idea, and now, for example, Thursday <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a> is in its 6th year! We've got Party Animals <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Karaoke</a> every week, and this coming Wednesday the 30th, we're hosting a <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">Karaoke Beach Party</a> night! Come dressed for the beach, sing some songs, and stay late into the night to win prizes for best beach outfit (men and women)!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With all the fun to be had that night (and any night in Frenchtown, really!), why worry about driving home. Just contact our friendly concierge to make a <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/reservations.aspx" target="_blank">reservation</a> for an overnight stay. We even have special packages for <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">mid-week stays</a>!!! Each week there's consistent programs, but we also have some surprises, such as (again) a beloved musician and patron asking if he could play some jazz once or twice a month on a Tuesday night in The Rat. How could we say no? We have Bi-Weekly Tuesday <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Trivia Night</a>, so this fits in beautifully. Call us at 908.996.3200 if you'd like more information on either of those programs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dxw-35rZsHHrTIKgc_H5cAfMneR_5eqY6EIndJKNu10j1PZIMVVqffp4UelvU-0ELnQa00M9iNfaCQoXQ8gFBHwJY1oGVLR7qTgS1AOPllmY15e28GqV5EG9GqIYPvJz7I7xVZAETFU/s1600/Locals+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dxw-35rZsHHrTIKgc_H5cAfMneR_5eqY6EIndJKNu10j1PZIMVVqffp4UelvU-0ELnQa00M9iNfaCQoXQ8gFBHwJY1oGVLR7qTgS1AOPllmY15e28GqV5EG9GqIYPvJz7I7xVZAETFU/s200/Locals+arrow.jpg" width="200" /></a>And remember, Monday is <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">Locals' Night</a> in The Rat. We learned this week that our <b>House-Made French Fries </b>were declared the winners in Hunterdon Happenings' 2016 Best French Fries competition (thanks to YOUR votes!)--but, since our Restaurant and Bar is closed every Monday, with only The Rat being open, we only serve a liquid diet, so make sure you BYOF (food...friend...fun)! So if you want the award-winning fries, please return Tuesday-Sunday!! </div>
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This bond with our community and our neighbors is exhibited not just in being nominated (and winning thanks to the votes of so many of you) for Hunterdon Happenings Winner of Best French Fries, or in this morning's Easter Egg Hunt, or through the big events that Frenchtown holds (such as Bastille Day in July), but moreover it is often through community service, where area residents come together to help each other and the town. A prime example, and one where you too can get involved is the <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/frenchtown-park-clean-up-day-april-16/" target="_blank">Frenchtown Park Clean-Up Day</a> on April 16th. Every year, volunteers carve out time to remove debris, clean, and refresh our Frenchtown Park. Please mark your calendar and help if you are able.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20.8px;">Please continue to send me your comments via </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="line-height: 20.8px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="line-height: 20.8px;"> or on this blog. I look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20.8px;">Please continue to send me your comments via </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="line-height: 20.8px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="line-height: 20.8px;"> or on this blog. I look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-9448967312499947122016-02-26T19:37:00.002-05:002016-02-27T12:55:58.461-05:00FEBRUARY HAS TURNED OUT TO BE A SUPER MONTH<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgchHxe3IJu28YgmUP5TuQKQl8bsOJafKYRTCraOzJmnP4PvxEA742M-s-IT0RoIvy1uRIxObVI7HaZ54FWBI2QtI7SCy30dYYkxl-ZYjT281Um1sxQRUxAtuAFY-ZSC5S5qv959B4ahdo/s1600/WP_20160226_004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgchHxe3IJu28YgmUP5TuQKQl8bsOJafKYRTCraOzJmnP4PvxEA742M-s-IT0RoIvy1uRIxObVI7HaZ54FWBI2QtI7SCy30dYYkxl-ZYjT281Um1sxQRUxAtuAFY-ZSC5S5qv959B4ahdo/s320/WP_20160226_004.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
We're so proud to be part of the fabric of the Frenchtown community. It's always a rewarding experience to get feedback from guests, and we are so pleased to have a 4-star rating from <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g46454-d2403777-r330032749-The_National_Hotel_Restaurant_and_Bar-Frenchtown_New_Jersey.html#REVIEWS" target="_blank">TripAdvisor</a>!! Even after closing for one week for our annual "re-birth" (in order to make sure we re-do floors, paint, and make the necessary work that ensures an optimal experience for our guests when they enter our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotelHistory.html" target="_blank">historic 19th century building</a>), there is always such good will from the community when we do this, such patience and support, that it buoys our spirits.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPB64xkpbXX6RXESasg2N2vtFCBX49Z3M86RSqWftHlCUgCB9knFNwtpGYTlpp7A36iXdayCAOg0U0QnVoBSnuWpCb-HoCqRTvLJN8ml2VEDyEffoM0wSkqhYlCG2O2QPOtvRCSiKerTI/s1600/hunterdon-vote-badge-2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPB64xkpbXX6RXESasg2N2vtFCBX49Z3M86RSqWftHlCUgCB9knFNwtpGYTlpp7A36iXdayCAOg0U0QnVoBSnuWpCb-HoCqRTvLJN8ml2VEDyEffoM0wSkqhYlCG2O2QPOtvRCSiKerTI/s200/hunterdon-vote-badge-2016.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
We are incredibly grateful to ALL of you who have voted for us in the <a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/french-fries-2016/" target="_blank">Hunterdon Happening List</a> for our award-winning French Fries--<b>and if you haven't, there's still time! </b><br />
<a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/french-fries-2016/">http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/french-fries-2016/</a><br />
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Our dedicated staff also deserves a lot of praise--that so many of you recognize and share with us--each and every one going above and beyond helping us through the process, and returning to <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/index.html" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> when our doors reopened on Tuesday, full of energy and a desire to exceed all expectations.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0DVLnqX2-Sa0hD923MXWsPzIjy8h_16nEfk-GXfZXV_jWZp2V3xC6Rvn3c-V6-rbYOiRwc4gcSYFNwrd7C1S_N_TRGkHgrN2zCd8RCHCVRORbPM98_PqyuNOG8RaETrC2nIlDAp5XnI/s1600/The+Book+Garden.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0DVLnqX2-Sa0hD923MXWsPzIjy8h_16nEfk-GXfZXV_jWZp2V3xC6Rvn3c-V6-rbYOiRwc4gcSYFNwrd7C1S_N_TRGkHgrN2zCd8RCHCVRORbPM98_PqyuNOG8RaETrC2nIlDAp5XnI/s200/The+Book+Garden.jpeg" width="125" /></a><a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a> itself is like that from my vantage point. Each individual and unique business has established that same spirit driven by a communal goal to provide the best customer service experience to residents and visitors alike. This attention to detail and passion is evident day in and day out. Whether you stop by to experience the beauty of the products and well-designed spaces of <a href="http://www.designsfortranquility.com/" target="_blank">Designs by Tranquility</a>; or the thrilling atmosphere of a high-end oil and vinegar shop, <a href="http://www.olivewithatwist.com/" target="_blank">Olive with a Twist</a>, that encourages customers to taste the products, to just STOP time and be in the moment expanding one's palate; or walk up the steps of the quintessentially Victorian building that says, <b>"Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," and "Peter Pan."</b> Walk through its front door to a bevy of rooms intricately organized to include a most delicate collection of books for all ages at <a href="http://www.bookgarden.biz/" target="_blank">The Book Garden</a>. Frenchtown delivers a one-of-a-kind spirit-lifting experience every single day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIaIcAN5mXwIs2AF8Wa3wTsC18b7eklWPX8DAKXsqWvH4coSh2Els0zGx_1asGD2fcupkwkgERlxo9ljhpz1eT2ZlqVl2ynfseDP99ugKgFRnDNUpoipSWifHHnxPEfyUgqENGLQGjQo/s1600/Restaurant+Week+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIaIcAN5mXwIs2AF8Wa3wTsC18b7eklWPX8DAKXsqWvH4coSh2Els0zGx_1asGD2fcupkwkgERlxo9ljhpz1eT2ZlqVl2ynfseDP99ugKgFRnDNUpoipSWifHHnxPEfyUgqENGLQGjQo/s1600/Restaurant+Week+2016.jpg" /></a>It's the townspeople, it's the shops, it's the restaurants, it's the Delaware River...it's all of it. With such close proximity to other river towns, and even to metropolitan cities such as Philadelphia and New York City, Frenchtown offers the opportunity to not just have life, but to <b><i>enjoy</i> </b>it. From live music <b>3 nights/week</b> at The National Hotel (Th <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a>, <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Sat Night Live Music Series</a>, and <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoons</a>), to Wed <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Karaoke Night</a>, and our bi-weekly Tues <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Trivia Night</a>, you'll have additional motivation to come to Frenchtown and also visit our neighboring river towns in March, during our <a href="http://www.glnhcc.org/restaurant-week-16.html" target="_blank">Restaurant Week</a>, March 20th -24th. Each one has a unique Restaurant Week experience waiting for you.<br />
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When you come to Frenchtown, make sure you don't walk down Race Street or Bridge Street in a hurry--there are faces that soon become familiar and there's a joy in greeting each other, and in looking at the store windows, just taking it all in. And of course, there's Harrison and Trenton Streets to shake things up too.<br />
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I hope you'll make some time for yourself, carve out a little piece of every day to enjoy our hidden gem, even if just to stroll through town to enjoy a healthy walk or bike ride on the <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park (a.k.a. town path)</a>. Walking our dog with our daughters now that one is already in college and our youngest will also be off soon, has left an indelible footprint in my mind for which I am forever grateful to Frenchtown.<br />
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I hope you too will join me.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20.8px;">Please continue to send me your comments via </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="line-height: 20.8px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="line-height: 20.8px;"> or on this blog. I look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-50147692717080688282015-10-24T11:13:00.000-04:002015-10-24T11:13:03.671-04:00Halloween Fun Starting Today including a Paranormal Night on Thursday and an Annual Halloween Party Next Saturday<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Have you ever felt like time literally slips through your fingers? How one day becomes one week, and suddenly you are playing catch-up with things? Well, that's the only down-side to life these days, because the flip-side is that life truly is amazing in </span><a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">! There's just so much to do, so many ways to feel connected to the community and be a part of the amazing "fast-casual" and yet, excitingly chic life of our little hidden gem, that sometimes my writing just takes a backseat. Or at least, the writing that I'm willing to post...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So after a long and beautiful summer, the leaves are finally transforming into a museum-quality painting with their beautiful autumn colors. Did you know that when the <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/hurs/hd_hurs.htm" target="_blank">Hudson River School</a> masters first showed their 19th century landscape paintings in Englad, people there thought the paintings were fake? The colors of the leaves in the UK during the fall foliage season do not turn the myriad colors we see from bright orange and red to even purple. Interestingly, <a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/news/celebrating-the-hudson-river-school-of-art/" target="_blank">CBS Sunday Morning</a> featured a story about this less than a week ago:</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/art-show-with-something-old-something-new">http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/art-show-with-something-old-something-new</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsSUqg43z3zGv2gUCdB8Q8x79_pV1eqgOG9NCJFuenYmV8rHqR4JSnJrqcN-HYmUtEaPhF_7XHLN-Zf_QDxHsR4nkXk-OacpgUlHaThyphenhyphenZJ8yuOak6qQuH7Kn5br4P1w1_cTRT2f_9Tb4M/s1600/TNH+Hudson+River+School.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsSUqg43z3zGv2gUCdB8Q8x79_pV1eqgOG9NCJFuenYmV8rHqR4JSnJrqcN-HYmUtEaPhF_7XHLN-Zf_QDxHsR4nkXk-OacpgUlHaThyphenhyphenZJ8yuOak6qQuH7Kn5br4P1w1_cTRT2f_9Tb4M/s320/TNH+Hudson+River+School.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">As beautiful as the Hudson River area is, I truly see beauty that is unparalleled right here, right in our own backyard by just taking a stroll to the <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/" target="_blank">Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park</a> (a.k.a. the tow path) that runs parallel to the Delaware River. Some of the photos that have been posted on facebook that are just minutes from Frenchtown are incredible! There are hiking trails, picnic spots, camping sites, and all are open to everyone. What an amazing place to live!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/gaetano.desapio.7?fref=ts" target="_blank">Gaetano DeSapio</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On a selfish note, we at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>, have a lot happening this week. From live music featuring </span><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Chris Bauer</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> tomorrow from 5-7 pm in our Restaurant and Bar, to the launch of our new fall menu on Tuesday--and to a special homage to our </span><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/wineclub/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">National Wine Club</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> members, by opening up a special selection of our wines to everyone for </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">ONE WEEK ONLY, all at 50% off</span></b><span style="font-family: inherit;">!!--to a special on-site internet broadcast on Thursday, October 29th (8-10 pm) by </span><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Unknown Origins Radio</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, </span></div>
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where everyone is welcome & invited to come in and share their paranormal experiences, memories, and stories, followed by our Halloween-themed Open Mic Night in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat), to, of course, our annual <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Halloween Celebration</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> featuring one of our faves, </span><span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Rainbow Fresh</b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> on </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">Saturday, October 31st</b><span style="font-family: inherit;">! Join us for special drinks and fun starting at 4 pm, with music starting at 9 pm. Prizes for best costumes will be awarded towards the end of the night. These is a Frenchtown tradition now, so make sure to mark your calendars!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And beyond activities at The National Hotel, Frenchtown itself has tons of activities from a <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/zombies-descend-on-frenchtown-and-more-october-fun/" target="_blank">Zombie Crawl</a> in town that kicks off later today, to special events like:</span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.bookgarden.biz/" target="_blank">The Book Garden</a>’s World Explorers Kids Club that welcomes Laurie Wallmark, author of Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine on October 25th. </span></span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Frenchtown kids of all ages are invited to <a href="http://www.earlybirdespresso.com/" target="_blank">Early Bird Espresso & Mercantile</a> on Wednesday, October 28th from 3 - 6 pm to paint pumpkins. </span></span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even our local High School (DVRHS) has a special event, when Emmy-winning CNN correspondent and writer, Tom Foreman, makes a special appearance on Tuesday, October 27th, on his run (yes, on foot) from Maryland to NYC to participate in the NYC Marathon in early November. The event is co-sponsored by <a href="http://www.bookgarden.biz/" target="_blank">The Book Garden</a> and the <a href="http://www.dvrhs.org/site/default.aspx?PageID=1" target="_blank">Delaware Valley Education Foundation</a> (DVEF). <a href="http://www.dvrhs.org/domain/365" target="_blank">Ticket admission</a> includes a signed copy of his book and benefits our local HS kids.</span></span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The events culminate on Friday, October 30th in a Halloween Parade sponsored by the American Legion awarding prizes for best costumes and providing snacks and refreshments!</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is absolute proof-positive that Frenchtown is the center of the universe...in my mind...because we are so accessible from Philly, from Princeton, from NYC, and elsewhere. Just take a look at the <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g46454-d1631581-r310255054-The_National_Hotel-Frenchtown_New_Jersey.html#UR310255054" target="_blank">reviews</a> from our overnight guests who continue to return, year after year. There's truly something special about Frenchtown. And for those guests, boy do we have <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">special activities</a> planned too...</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4667px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And of course, thank you to so many of you who continue to join us every week for our weekly activities, including:</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="line-height: 21.4667px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a> every Thursday</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 21.4667px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Karaoke</a> every Wednesday</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 21.4667px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Trivia Night every other Tuesday</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 21.4667px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Saturday Night Live Music in The Rat</span></span></li>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4667px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We're incredibly grateful also to those of you who have stopped by on Monday nights now that The Rat is open from 5 pm - midnight (drinks only). It's great to have a little time to catch up with friends in a low-stress atmosphere that allows everyone to decompress after the 1st day of the work week has begun: <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Monday Madness</a> at its best! (And Happy Hour from 5 - 7 pm doesn't hurt either!!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20.8px;">Please continue to send us your comments via </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="line-height: 20.8px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="line-height: 20.8px;"> or on this blog. We look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com031 Race St, Frenchtown, NJ 08825, USA40.5271671 -75.0604256000000315.0051326 -116.36901960000003 66.0492016 -33.751831600000031tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-32141593026437979142015-07-11T11:27:00.002-04:002015-07-11T14:11:10.470-04:00'Paris a la Frenchtown' and More During the Month of July!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Paul and Jane</td></tr>
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June came and went--not a minute to put pen to paper. Even now, as I look back at the incredible pace of last month, I am in awe of our General Manager, <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/RestStaff.aspx" target="_blank">Marlon Aranha</a>. He is so loved by our friends in the community; they see his integrity, his honesty, and his immense capacity to make everyone feel welcome at <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>. Whether it's busy at our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Restaurant and Bar</a>, or multiple guests arrive to check-in for their overnight stay--all at the same time--Marlon always manages to make sure everyone is well attended. His warm smile and graciousness know no end. As we approach our 6th anniversary of being a part of this historic establishment, we feel blessed beyond words to have been able to enlist Marlon's help from day one and to continue to rely on him to ensure our patrons return time and again.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of frenchtownnj.org</td></tr>
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With <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/bastille-day/" target="_blank">Bastille Day</a> (a.k.a. <b>Paris a la Frenchtown</b>) taking place today, Marlon will surely be busy--but it's what he likes. That's when you know you're in the right profession, when you are truly passionate about what you do. When I spoke to Marlon last night, we talked about how lucky we are that the weather reports are saying that it'll be a beautiful day for our visitors and Frenchtown residents alike to walk around town and soak in the town's festivities. Those who stay late will be able to enjoy a <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/bastille-day/" target="_blank">"movie under the stars"</a> or can come to The National Hotel to listen to <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Jeremy</a>, who will perform live in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat) from 9 - 11 pm tonight. Truly, today is going to be a magnificent day!<br />
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We'll be ready to welcome our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">overnight guests</a> who will be checking in this afternoon too, as well as our Restaurant and Bar patrons, who will be treated to our weekend <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx#" target="_blank">Additions to the Menu</a>, specially created using the freshest seasonal ingredients:<br />
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<b><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">STRAWBERRY BASIL MOJITO<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Casa Brava Rum, Muddled Basil & Strawberries, Agave Nectar $9<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="IT" style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">GREENS<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Mixed Varieties of Heirloom Tomatoes, Spring Mix, Balsamic Vinaigrette, Burrata Cheese, Basil Sorbet $13<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Malpeque Oysters, Prince Edward Island, Canada – Medium Brine, Light Bodied, Clean finish<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Day Boat Blue Point, Long Island – 2” -3” cup, High Salinity, Classic finish<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">$2.5 each, 6/$13, 12/$25<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">FRENCH DIP<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Slow Roasted Top Round, Thinly Sliced, Horseradish Crème, Served on long roll & Side of Au Jus, Signature House Cut Fries $13<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Pan Seared Monk Fish, Served over a Beluga Lentil & Roasted Vegetable Salad (served Cold), Hoison Glaze $20<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Grilled Pork Tenderloin, Sautéed Broccolini, Purple Sticky Rice, Pear Demi-Glaze $18<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Spaghetti with Grilled Chicken, Roasted Wild Mushrooms, Sweet Green Peas, Wild Mushroom Crème Sauce $18<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake</span></i></b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">ASK YOUR SERVER FOR ADDITIONAL DESSERT OPTIONS</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Not only will you enjoy these dishes, but if you return to Frenchtown tomorrow, you'll be treated to a return <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">live music performance</a> by <b>Waterfront:Blue</b>, 5 - 7 pm in our main Restaurant and Bar.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And of course, thank you to so many of you who continue to join us every week for our weekly activities, including:</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Open Mic Night every Thursday</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Karaoke every Wednesday</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Trivia Night every other Tuesday</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Saturday Night Live Music in The Rat</span></li>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">We're incredibly grateful also to those of you who have stopped by on Monday nights now that The Rat is open from 5 pm - midnight (drinks only). It's great to have a little time to catch up with friends in a low-stress atmosphere that allows everyone to decompress after the 1st day of the work week has begun: <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">Monday Madness</a> at its best! (And Happy Hour from 5 - 7 pm doesn't hurt either!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Please continue to send us your comments via </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.7999992370605px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"> or on this blog. We look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-29162035241197095902015-05-22T18:03:00.000-04:002015-05-22T18:03:29.165-04:00Honoring and Remembering This Memorial Day<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Memorial Day is upon us and as we fire up those grills or hop in our cars to visit friends and family, Pete and I also want to let you know that The National Hotel will be closed on Monday, May 25th, in honor of all our men and women who sacrificed so much for our freedom. We hope that you will enjoy the long weekend and join us as we take a moment to pay tribute to so many who have died in service to their country.<br />
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Our little town has an annual celebration in honor of these men and women, with a <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/memorial-day-parade/" target="_blank">parade</a> starting at 10 a.m. Each year, the streets fill with people waving flags, cheering on the veterans marching down the road, and enjoying a parade filled with nostalgia. The end is as meaningful as the beginning, with a low-flying plane dropping flowers above the Frenchtown cemetery.<br />
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As we collect our thoughts on the importance of carving time to pay homage to these fallen veterans, Pete and I thought it best to close The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat) this Monday, and we hope you'll understand. We'll reopen for <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">Monday Madness</a> the following week and we hope to see you then. We thank you for your understanding.<br />
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May has just been an incredible month of communal cooperation. From patrons stopping by to make<br />
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donations for our Nepal Earthquake Relief fundraiser, to even the <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/" target="_blank">Frenchtown Business and Professional Association</a> (FBPA) donating to this cause. I'm happy to report that the funds were sent to Nepal, and that the National Hotel matched the gifts collected with its own contribution. I can only thank the two individuals, Lulu Rana-Gupta and Neeru Khadka, who were the genesis for this small grassroots fundraiser, because Neeru is on the ground in Nepal doing all she can to organize, distribute aid, and impact change. Concurrently, our other dear and long-time friend, Lulu, is based locally in NJ and is doing all she can to encourage and motivate friends and businesses to also raise money to send to Nepal and help those in need. And best of all, every single dollar contributed was sent overseas.<br />
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This tragedy brought me right back to the 2010 8.8-magnitude earthquake and tsunami in Chile. The human suffering was immense, My cousin, Rolando Ara, and his wife, Fran made their way south to the devastated areas, and together, a doctor and a psychologist, respectively, they raised funds, and distributed aid and first-hand assistance, making a difference in a very personal and significant way. And what about right here, locally? <div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGRLHq5Y0ryV6Lvh2cgOQBWdvtUTYMyZVSEwHhCPadJs2VlMTOD07ATGMDB-30O8hHefAvdyo8Z1Yfdf_EoOfvq7wPVqFFrMIh9JvMz8EP8PVSVwj3n13fOzFmRQcOuCEJXSlFUOUH5k/s1600/Frenchtown+Angels+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGRLHq5Y0ryV6Lvh2cgOQBWdvtUTYMyZVSEwHhCPadJs2VlMTOD07ATGMDB-30O8hHefAvdyo8Z1Yfdf_EoOfvq7wPVqFFrMIh9JvMz8EP8PVSVwj3n13fOzFmRQcOuCEJXSlFUOUH5k/s200/Frenchtown+Angels+2012.jpg" width="200" /></a>How about all the good work that the <a href="http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2012/11/frenchtown_angels_send_two_tru.html" target="_blank">Frenchtown Angels</a>, including Dawn from Country Chic, Frenchtown Police Chief, Al Kurilka, Officer Paul Murphy from our Frenchtown Police Department, and so many other volunteers, did after SuperStorm Sandy left absolute devastation south of us? Even we at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> tried to help with those efforts, as well as blocking off some rooms so that our community members whose homes were affected and had no water, could use our facilities and have hot showers. There are countless tales of selfless souls in our area who took in neighbors who lost power and who provided car trips to school for children who had no access to school bus transport with roads blocked or homes damaged during that difficult time. Our vibrant community showed that we care about that single solitary individual and we will do what we can to help him/her, even through personal sacrifice.<br />
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It is an honor to live in this community, to be a part of the fabric of Frenchtown, and Pete and I are always grateful that we have been embraced and included. There really is no better place in which to live!<br />
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On June 8th, Frenchtown is also holding a <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/events/" target="_blank">blood drive</a> and we hope to see you there. On our end, we have our weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Saturday Night Live Music series</a> tomorrow, featuring Marc McManus, and Alan Wilcockson on Sunday, May 24th, part of our <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/events/" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoon series</a>. We hope you'll join us this weekend for our weekend Additions to the Menu, some music, and some much deserved pampering by our staff. It's going to be a great weekend together!! Don't forget about the rest of the week's programming, including our weekly Wednesday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Karaoke Night</a>, Thursday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a>, and more!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please continue to send us your comments via <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a> or on this blog. We look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-29489215843075045832015-03-31T18:13:00.001-04:002015-03-31T18:23:38.699-04:00Special Easter Brunch Planned and Huge Milestones this Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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April is promising to be an exciting month already, following on the heels of March, that has been quite a month in and of itself. Between Frenchtown's FIRST Restaurant Week, to the re-opening of our <b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Monday Madness</span></b> nights in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a., The Rat), to working diligently on creating our spring menu that will go live this coming month, to planning for what is sure to be an incredible rest of 2015. Here's are 3 huge milestones for The National Hotel:<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>We will celebrate the 165th anniversary of <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> since it broke ground in 1850 to establish the beautiful and gracious edifice we see today.</li>
<li>We are celebrating the 125th night of Bi-Weekly Tuesday Trivia, thanks to the unstoppable creativity and ingenuity of its founder, Russ Coen, and our General Manager, Marlon Aranha.</li>
<li>We look forward to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1579986888884644/" target="_blank">250th night of Open Mic Night</a> on April 9th! FIVE YEARS!!! And that is thanks to the many wonderful musicians and artists who take the microphone week after week, as well as to this special night's hosts--and in particular, to the night's creator, whose vision to create a legacy of music at The National Hotel has stood the test of time: Mr. Alex Wolfson.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEyKMIpo7G4429fgHt3QAucGE1PoiU6gy3EKxzbYs-KyNfoHqbqc_kg1zSJYPEcVh0ZCcMiAxGzlnJeCqoeUl60zA1UJD5Yq7Kd93cJSY091tnBnSS5T8uXjZecfG4-yhMGl3M-pkGLk/s1600/Hunterdon+Happening+List+2015+winner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEyKMIpo7G4429fgHt3QAucGE1PoiU6gy3EKxzbYs-KyNfoHqbqc_kg1zSJYPEcVh0ZCcMiAxGzlnJeCqoeUl60zA1UJD5Yq7Kd93cJSY091tnBnSS5T8uXjZecfG4-yhMGl3M-pkGLk/s1600/Hunterdon+Happening+List+2015+winner.jpg" height="181" width="200" /></a>As you can see, this year is a celebratory year, and YOUR voices have also been heard through social media, resonating state-wide and area-wide. From being nominated and making it to the very final cut of <a href="http://www.nj.com/jerseysbest/2015/01/njs_best_hotel_and_restaurant_bars_vote_for_your_f.html" target="_blank">best NJ bars</a>, to making it into <a href="http://ediblephilly.com/magazine/spring-2015/road-trip-exploring-frenchtown/" target="_blank">Edible Philly's</a> travel section along with other Frenchtown establishments, to continuing social media competitions (where we are pleased to report we won in the Food and Drinks category of <a href="http://hunterdon.happeningmag.com/happeninglist/2015-food-drink-french-fries/" target="_blank">Hunterdon's The Happening List</a>, as having the area's best signature fresh-cut fries!!). And we know there will be many other opportunities for your opinions to be heard and for your love of this grand old establishment to spread to far-away places. We saw that in several recent <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g46454-d1631581-r262476354-The_National_Hotel-Frenchtown_New_Jersey.html#UR262476354" target="_blank">TripAdvisor reviews</a>, and the generous words used to describe our staff's attention to detail helped us forget about the frigid temperatures outside from sheer happiness and pride. Why not experience this yourself with an <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">overnight stay</a> with us now that spring is finally here? We have terrific special packages and <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">rates</a> that will make this get-away truly wonderful. Please all our knowledgeable concierge for more information: 908.996.3200.</div>
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Last night's re-launch of our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerHours.aspx" target="_blank">Monday Madness</a> after too long of a winter, proved to have been worth the wait. Friends turned up for <b>Happy Hour</b> (5 p.m. - 7 p.m.), and enjoyed the warmth of the area's "late night destination." Being open on a Monday exclusively to serve our bar patrons creates its own vibe, and we are excited to be able to add this to our weekly schedule.<br />
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This first weekend in April will also allow us to showcase another FIRST for us: <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">BRUNCH</a>!! We've created an <span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>Easter Brunch menu</b></span> that is sure to please, filled with favorites and uniquely crafted dishes that will include a glass of champagne, as well as coffee or tea. <span style="color: #a64d79;"><b><i>All for just $20 per person</i></b></span>!!!! Please make sure to call us at 908.996.3200, because reservations are filling up quickly. Brunch will be served 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.<br />
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In addition to our Easter menu, we will also continue to feature our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">weekend Additions to the Menu</a> (Thursday - Sunday) that takes advantage of the beautiful area where we live, sourcing the freshest ingredients to bring succulent dishes to the table. These special menus will be posted on our website by Thursday evening, April 2nd. Do make plans to join us.<br />
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We're also excited about our <b>new wine list</b>, where we'll feature some of the best wines available at prices that are sure to please. You'll notice some terrific new wines in our White Wine section of our menu that will complement the new spring and summer dishes on our menu. We hope you too will agree.<br />
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The same goes for our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/wineclub/" target="_blank">National Wine Club</a>. This just keeps growing and growing and we're so pleased, because we have the ability to create a more robust member night that will surely be in demand in the future. If you're curious about the benefits and/or interested in joining (just $10/month), please take a look at our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/wineclub/" target="_blank">webpage</a> for information and fill out our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" target="_blank">inquiry form</a>. Pete and I will be happy to send you information (or create this membership as an exclusive gift certificate for someone special). You can always call us at 908.996.3200 with any questions too.<br />
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Moreover, now that April is knocking on our door, it's wonderful to reflect and remember why we do what we do. Not a day passes that Pete and I (together with our incredibly dedicated staff) don't discuss this or that about The National Hotel, our patrons, upcoming opportunities, ideas for future projects, etc. It's also been such a labor of love to continue to meet with local farmers and merchants, who are eager to create that "farm to table" experience through collaboration and cooperation. Our Executive Chef, <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/chefBio.aspx" target="_blank">Geoffrey Thomas</a>, makes this a priority, especially as he crafts new menu ideas alongside Pete, whose vision for each new menu selection is always inspired.<br />
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We owe much of the direction we take to you. Your feedback, your patronage, and your support continue to boost our spirits and propel us forward. Thank you for everything you do.<br />
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Please remember to check our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheNationalHotelNJ?fref=nf" target="_blank">facebook updates</a> so you can mark your calendars for our weekly and bi-weekly events, including:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Bi-Weekly Tuesday Trivia (8-10 p.m.);</li>
<li>Weekly Wednesday Happy Hour (4-7 p.m.): Ladies' 1/2 off drinks;</li>
<li>Weekly Wednesday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Karaoke</a> Night (8 p.m. - midnight);</li>
<li>Weekly Thursday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a> (9 p.m. - closing);</li>
<li>Weekly Saturday Night Live Music series (9 - 11 p.m.);</li>
<li>Weekly Sunday Musical Afternoon series (5 - 7 p.m.);</li>
<li>and now, weekly Monday Madness in The Rat (Happy Hour 5 - 7 p.m.; bar closes at midnight)</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWt0PLHvARdPEckAwwE0Fmh49xGSGy6l0GgkBOid91fL372KufbozcYMewIbbgsEl9QEUkumTz6rcdPfoftfTfDSPqrlBrdndCRyJGm0TVVqPLC9VgwEk8i0Xvx8LqpX_n9WVyrsxUBk/s1600/Forks+and+Corks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWt0PLHvARdPEckAwwE0Fmh49xGSGy6l0GgkBOid91fL372KufbozcYMewIbbgsEl9QEUkumTz6rcdPfoftfTfDSPqrlBrdndCRyJGm0TVVqPLC9VgwEk8i0Xvx8LqpX_n9WVyrsxUBk/s1600/Forks+and+Corks.jpg" /></a>There's always something special happening at The National Hotel, thanks to your patronage. Please also join us for our weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">Wednesday Forks and Corks dinner</a>, where for $25 pp, you'll savor a 1 lb. 100% grass-fed Porterhouse steak with mashed potatoes and vegetable and/or 50% off a bottle of wine of YOUR choice. Now that's a great way to fight the Wednesday Hump Day blues!!</div>
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In addition, we have to recognize and thank the Frenchtown Business and Professional Association (FBPA) that worked diligently to put <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/frenchtown-restaurant-week-march-23-29th-2015/" target="_blank">Frenchtown's Restaurant Week</a> on the map. This was an example of a town coming together and honoring what each restaurant contributes, because as a community, we stand strong together. If you walk along the streets of downtown Frenchtown, you'll see how we're growing, from businesses relocating to other parts of the town bringing new energy to the new location, to new businesses working to open their doors in time for the busier spring and summer seasons. We can't wait!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please continue to send us your comments via <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email</a> or on this blog. To all who observe, we wish you a very Happy Easter and Chag Sameach. We look forward to seeing you soon at The National Hotel. Thank you for your continued patronage.</span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-61261597524291109472015-02-14T20:27:00.002-05:002015-02-14T20:27:18.519-05:002nd Annual Valentine's Day Essay Contest<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's such a difficult thing to have to choose just 3 winners from all of the submissions we received at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> this year, and yet, we made a commitment to our participants and we are sticking with it. So tonight, we announce that we have our top 3 writers who have shared stories from the heart. They are meaningful, they are truthful, and they help de-commercialize this annual celebration of love and family.<br />
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Our winners are Skye, Ann, and Lauren</b></span>. We cannot thank them enough, and all our other participants, for taking the time to put pen to paper and share their stories. Pete and I don't need to write another word on this month's blog, because their words say it all:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Skye (Frenchtown, NJ): </li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif;">"My
mom married at 18 in the middle of World War II. They rushed, before my dad who
joined the Army Air Corps before Pearl Harbor, was shipped out again. After the
wedding, my dad had to take a troop train to Florida and snuck my mom on board.
Two weeks later he was overseas and didn't see my mom again until she was 20.
He always joked he heard the first year of marriage was the hardest so he
thought he'd stay away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif;">"Five
years ago last November, my parents were moving to Frenchtown ahead of the
movers so they became the second guests at the D’Costa’s newly renovated
National Hotel. Almost exactly three years later, they drove to a routine appointment
in Flemington. They sat down side by side in the outer waiting room and he, as
usual, dropped his head and fell asleep. My mom watched the clock and nudged
him when it was time. There was no response. She rushed into the cardiologist’s
office and they all came running, working on him for an hour, but he never woke
up. He was 94. My mom was 87. That day was the first in 68 years that she was
alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif;">"A
year and a half later, at lunch at Homestead General Store, Bucks County, PA,
we spotted a very tall man wearing an Air Force Veteran baseball cap across the
room. My mom bumped into him at the lottery machine and asked about his cap. Soon
the conversation got to their both being widowed. A few days later they got
together and I don't think there’s been a day since that they haven't been. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs_4srWqkXWuFzCwGLz2dHj__0wIhBtM0a3nQVkDWUuuqiegcLpi8QxdEtLL1Dzt0YOxlMttOPIbyLTMeSCE4wzgZ6cN0zd3rQQRUdCOZo1OGDiST48LmQ7S4wCMrLwm2y4cN2nS3XO5o/s1600/skye+v-day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs_4srWqkXWuFzCwGLz2dHj__0wIhBtM0a3nQVkDWUuuqiegcLpi8QxdEtLL1Dzt0YOxlMttOPIbyLTMeSCE4wzgZ6cN0zd3rQQRUdCOZo1OGDiST48LmQ7S4wCMrLwm2y4cN2nS3XO5o/s1600/skye+v-day.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Times, serif;">"John,
a former bomber pilot and 35-year airline pilot, is two years younger than my
mom who delights in calling herself a cougar. They hold hands, she rides in his
pickup, he calls her last thing at night and first thing in the morning, and when
it snows, he stays over. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, serif;">"Their
most meaningful romantic moment is a daily occurrence because they don’t take
any for granted. Even more special is the joy they bring to everyone else, the
smiles as “the lovebirds” walk through town. The fact an almost ninety-year-old
woman and eighty eight year old man can serendipitously find each other is the
very symbol of love – and that it’s never too late to find it."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, serif;">Ann (Bucks County, PA):</span></li>
</ul>
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"This year George and I will be sharing our 22nd Valentine’s
Day together. Sometimes I think it is a
miracle we met at all. He lived in
Pennsylvania and I lived in NJ. We met in March 1993 thanks to a winter storm with
a foot of snow that forced the rescheduling of many St. Patrick’s Day Parties
including the one we both ended up attending the following weekend. The delay of the festivities meant that I was
now free to drive across the Delaware River and attend the party I would have
missed. That night I met the kind,
handsome man I would someday marry. I’m
still amazed that this wonderful person I admired from the other side of the
room chose me. </div>
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"Our first date was a disaster. Open mic night at John and Peter’s in New
Hope where a friend of his hogged the conversation. George was never going to call again but when
he dropped me off I, accidently and unknowingly (I swear), left my wallet in
his car. He HAD to call me the next day
and we decided to try again. Despite me
leaving on two long trips and moving back in with my parents, we made it out on
a real dinner date where I impressed him by not only eating my own dinner but
some of his as well. Surprisingly, he
asked me out again. </div>
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"We were engaged in December 1994. His family lived in Pennsylvania and mine in
NJ so we had to find an in-between place to first have our parents meet and
eventually to be married. We treated
our parents to dinner in Lambertville at a place which was probably the
fanciest restaurant I had ever been in.
Ever since then, I love to go walk along the Delaware and stop for
drinks and dessert. We were married at
St. John’s in Lambertville with a reception at Peddler’s Village. Now, 20
years later, we live in Bucks County. This
past Mother’s Day my husband and kids told me they would do anything I
wanted. My choice was Frenchtown and we
spent a beautiful spring day walking around the shops. Even though there were six of us, it was
memorable and romantic. Choosing to
spending time with someone you love is romantic even if you are not alone and
when you have four kids you never seem to be alone."</div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Lauren (Phillipsburg, NJ):</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"My name is Lauren , this is just one of those moments that made me realize how lucky and in love I am with my husband. Back in 2009, last week of September my husband and I had an argument over god knows what. His way of fixing it, a delivery of flowers my way was a card, a greeting card. About a week later, I found out I was pregnant so I was so excited and couldn't figure out how to tell him. Our thing has always been cards, greeting cards for everything. I found the perfect card, it stated how he didn't have to be nervous I knew he would be a great father even if he couldn't get the crib together on his first try. He would have Nine months to figure it out. Well I had to run out and FORGOT the card on the kitchen table, he got home and saw it was for him. Assuming he was in trouble for something else he hesitated to open it, but did. Unfortunately I was not there to see his reaction. When I returned he was just standing in the kitchen so excited smile ear to ear and then he tried to ask me a question but just started to cry and held up the card. Eventually got the word "really" out. I nodded yes."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To all of our contestants, THANK YOU!! You made this day truly special for all of us. Pete and I hope that you will continue to participate in this annual contest, and continue to enjoy our beautiful little corner of the world. There just isn't anywhere else we'd rather be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">I'd like to close with a simple reminder about our annual "cleansing," when we close The National Hotel for a week (Monday, February 16 - Monday, February 23, reopening on Tuesday the 24th), in order to necessary maintenance work that will sustain this historic establishment for the rest of the year. We hope that you understand, and that you will return on 24th and thereafter to continue to make memories in Frenchtown. </span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please continue to send us your comments via <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email</a> or on this blog. Happy Valentine's Day weekend!!</span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-45790468511912465392015-01-31T19:12:00.002-05:002015-01-31T19:12:09.003-05:00MAKING PLANS FOR A GREAT VALENTINE'S DAY<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIooCjtifGs3t5dts76r0I0T9cq5thhyphenhyphenupke8-vYX66jvwZoXfBaXXxRwXak1Vs8sQhWb8oBUi1uEQ0wfybbGDANF09IY8eM7hMCnSS_ZLCzh4U6omMpDbcRrbw4fTvV1sKWKapAnI8uA/s1600/original+photo+from+the+1800s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIooCjtifGs3t5dts76r0I0T9cq5thhyphenhyphenupke8-vYX66jvwZoXfBaXXxRwXak1Vs8sQhWb8oBUi1uEQ0wfybbGDANF09IY8eM7hMCnSS_ZLCzh4U6omMpDbcRrbw4fTvV1sKWKapAnI8uA/s1600/original+photo+from+the+1800s.jpg" height="265" width="320" /></a></div>
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The New Year arrived with new convictions and an invigorated spirit. <b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">This year marks the 165th anniversary since The National Hotel broke ground</span></b> and transformed itself from a 'Rooms for Rent' small inn, the <i><a href="http://www.njskylands.com/at_national_hotel_112" target="_blank">Sign of the Dove</a></i> (built by blacksmith Samuel Powers), to the beautiful edifice that still makes Frenchtown proud. 165 YEARS! Now that's a celebration woth having!! Check back monthly to see what we have in store for you to commemorate this special day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3qOmxT414w4guoB_iMtYkt40gUy_EQA3GoGWbFwEKOBjXdPf_e93kNZoeHscWjrcDLMxGVBlEd20hXyMSP_GPsTAUonBFLT7chVinuW-BJdB4Z_mZQP9JFVjjFSvQlhA2uIVhSYBTxs/s1600/TNH+2015+homepage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3qOmxT414w4guoB_iMtYkt40gUy_EQA3GoGWbFwEKOBjXdPf_e93kNZoeHscWjrcDLMxGVBlEd20hXyMSP_GPsTAUonBFLT7chVinuW-BJdB4Z_mZQP9JFVjjFSvQlhA2uIVhSYBTxs/s1600/TNH+2015+homepage.jpg" height="251" width="320" /></a></div>
2015 brings new updates too, like our newly revamped <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">homepage</a> based on feedback from friends like you. It's a "work-in-progress," b/c we're updating the photos and improving the interactivity. It's pretty neat to be able to upload new content and new special offers right onto the homepage, so we look forward to announcing when it's fully operational. We're also excited to do some maintenance and sprucing up of The National Hotel the week of February 16th. Although that means <b><span style="color: red;">we'll be closed on February 16th for the week and reopen on Monday the 23rd</span></b>, it is our annual commitment to the very community we serve. It provides us with the opportunity to refurbish, paint, and do the necessary touch-ups that sustain us for the entire year.<br />
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This "cleansing" of The National Hotel's heart and soul will follow on the heels of our annual Valentine's Day celebration, from a special menu to a <b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><i>Lovers' Essay contest</i></span></b>. Just like last year, the contest is open to Hunterdon and Bucks County area residents with the #1 prize being a complimentary overnight stay at The National Hotel. The rules are very simple:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Submit your story--at least 250 words, no more than 400 words via <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email</a></li>
<li>Story/essay must be about you and your loved one, sharing your most romantic moment as it relates to Frenchtown, or any of the surrounding Hunterdon County, NJ or Buck's County, PA areas</li>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Three prizes will be awarded: </span></span><br />
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">One overnight stay at The National Hotel for two</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">Dinner for two in The National Hotel’s Restaurant and Bar</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">Dessert and after-dinner drinks for two in The National Hotel’s Restaurant and Bar</span></li>
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<span style="color: #141823;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">Last year's entries had such beautiful stories, we wish we could have featured all of them. So, if you weren't a finalist, or simply forgot to submit your essay, please send it in now. Check our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheNationalHotelNJ" target="_blank">facebook page</a> for more information and for the announcement of the winning essay. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">Best of luck to all of you who might participate!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13th.</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">Don't forget to plan your Valentine's Day with us, and make your <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/reservations.aspx" target="_blank">reservation</a> early. We're finishing up our special <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Valentine's Day menu</a> with you in mind--check back this week on our webpage. Stay up to date by liking us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheNationalHotelNJ" target="_blank">facebook</a>, regarding Valentine's Day and also our upcoming <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">music programming</a> (and other special weekly events), so you don't miss anything. Here's just a glimpse:</span></span><br />
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<li style="color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Monday weekly <span style="color: teal; line-height: normal;"><b style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">Happy Hour</b></span>, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.</span></li>
<li style="color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bi-weekly <b style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><i style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">Tuesday Trivia</i></b>, 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.</span></li>
<li style="color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wednesday weekly <span style="color: teal; line-height: normal;"><b style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">Happy Hour</b></span>, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.</span></li>
<li style="color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wednesday weekly <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9f070a556aecc3946482d403b&id=6a82f75152&e=bc99246d9a" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 22.7199993133545px;" target="_blank"><span style="color: grey; line-height: normal;"><span style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><b style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><i style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">Karaoke Night</i></b></span></span></a>, 8 p.m. - midnight</span></li>
<li style="color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thursday weekly <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9f070a556aecc3946482d403b&id=dcb01edd0f&e=bc99246d9a" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 22.7199993133545px;" target="_blank"><span style="color: grey; line-height: normal;"><span style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><b style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><i style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">Open Mic Night</i></b></span></span></a>, 9 p.m. - closing</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #202020;">Weekly </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.us9.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=9f070a556aecc3946482d403b&id=eef86e50cf&e=bc99246d9a" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 22.7199993133545px;" target="_blank"><span style="color: grey; line-height: normal;"><span style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><b style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><i style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">Saturday Night Live Music Series</i></b></span></span></a><span style="color: #202020;">, 9 p.m. - 11 p.m.--</span><b><span style="color: red;">The Good-Frost Project performs 1/31/15</span></b></span></li>
<li style="color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; margin: 0px 0px 3px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Weekly <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.us9.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=9f070a556aecc3946482d403b&id=f4a6514d58&e=bc99246d9a" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 22.7199993133545px;" target="_blank"><span style="color: grey; line-height: normal;"><span style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><b style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;"><i style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">Sunday Musical Afternoon Series</i></b></span></span></a>, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; text-align: justify;">Join us every week for these </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9f070a556aecc3946482d403b&id=8cf372ebb1&e=bc99246d9a" style="background-color: white; color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; text-align: justify;" target="_blank"><span style="color: grey; line-height: normal;"><span style="line-height: 22.7199993133545px;">special programs</span></span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; line-height: 22.7199993133545px; text-align: justify;">. There's just never a dull night at The National Hotel!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #141823;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">I can say this with complete confidence, because many of these programs are in place because of friends like YOU, friends who have taken the time and interest to work on the programs, create the content, and implement their vision. Pete and I are so grateful to all of you for your support. We hope that 2015 is already off to a great start for you, and we look forward to chatting more with you in person, via <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email</a>, or through the comments you leave on this blog. Here's to a great year together!!</span></span><br />
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-60505531307078625792015-01-01T16:12:00.002-05:002015-01-01T16:12:18.113-05:00Looking Forward to this New Year with YOU!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_tI5a6nmq24r5_ZwZQiQjgOp2E6YO7YBoXelIHiEDE7hZ7mkCyaKhMjB0jBQpWvVG4o8VoHUGRtqynLZYsfNkwKm40qR-0EML0_1W1LoGNjc_wzNYmHPYNtphSjlTKEHqvwqP6Ws22Y/s1600/TNH+Happy+New+Year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_tI5a6nmq24r5_ZwZQiQjgOp2E6YO7YBoXelIHiEDE7hZ7mkCyaKhMjB0jBQpWvVG4o8VoHUGRtqynLZYsfNkwKm40qR-0EML0_1W1LoGNjc_wzNYmHPYNtphSjlTKEHqvwqP6Ws22Y/s1600/TNH+Happy+New+Year.jpg" height="121" width="320" /></a></div>
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Our 6th New Year's celebration came to a close in the early hours of 2015. Thank you so much to those of you who came out to share the beginning of a new year with us at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>--and thank you to all those of you who made 2014 an absolutely memorable year because you were a part of it!! Everything we've accomplished has been thanks to your support and the dedication of our talented staff. Spending time with you and seeing you return to our establishment just propels us forward more than you can ever imagine, and we are grateful beyond words.<br />
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Although we are closed today, we will reopen our doors tomorrow, January 2nd, and be fully energized after spending a day with our respective families. And, we've got a lot <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">planned</a> for the next few weeks:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpVrLefNylctTiFav99RnVycIRLfv5wkVJLsetIQW3yPNGyo6_6BkvIlAETClAAvLSkDNeIeRRluFxVVPCW6lm3oY11OjUYUOTw8LCV7hDga0K4slKy5q9OETZ4_nvCxwVO92_zTPCGY/s1600/Happy+Hour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpVrLefNylctTiFav99RnVycIRLfv5wkVJLsetIQW3yPNGyo6_6BkvIlAETClAAvLSkDNeIeRRluFxVVPCW6lm3oY11OjUYUOTw8LCV7hDga0K4slKy5q9OETZ4_nvCxwVO92_zTPCGY/s1600/Happy+Hour.jpg" height="152" width="200" /></a>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sunday, January 4 - Arnie Baird</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Monday, January 5 - Happy Hour, 5-7 pm in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a., The Rat)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wednesday, January 7 <br />- Happy Hour, 4 - 6 pm in The Rat<br />- Forks and Corks Special Dinner (<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">1 lb 100% grass-fed Porterhouse steak <span style="font-family: inherit;">w/mashed potatoes and veg and</span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">/or 50% off a bottle of wine of YOUR choice)</span></span><br />- Karaoke Night, 8 pm - Midnight</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Saturday, January 10 - Mike Jaimeson</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sunday, January 11 - Dillon Taylor</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tuesday, January 13 - Bi-Weekly Trivia Night</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wednesday, January 14<br /> - Karaoke Night, 8 pm - Midnight<br /> </span>- Happy Hour, 4 - 6 pm in The Rat<br />- Forks and Corks Special Dinner<span style="font-family: inherit;"> (<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">1 lb 100% grass-fed Porterhouse steak <span style="font-family: inherit;">w/mashed potatoes and veg and</span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">/or 50% off a bottle of wine of YOUR choice)</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Saturday, January 17 - Jesse Ketchel</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sunday, January 18 - Brian Colburn</span></li>
<li>Check our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">website</a> for additional information please.</li>
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We also have our weekend <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Additions to the Menu</a> planned out already, and posted on our website for this 1st weekend of 2015:<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="color: blue;">DRINK SPECIAL</span></span><span style="line-height: 15.3333320617676px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">THE POINSETTIA<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Champagne, Cranberry Juice, Cointreau $8<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<b><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">SUPER FOOD SALAD<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Black Quinoa with toasted Sesame & Pumpkin Seeds, Pomegranate Seeds, Orange Slices, Kale marinated in a Orange & Lime Vinaigrette, Avacado Slices $12<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;">SMALL PLATES</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Taylor Bay Oysters, MA – High Brine, Sweet Finish</span></i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Wild Martha Vineyards Oysters, MA – Mild Brine, Clean Finish<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">West Falmouth Oysters, Buzzard Bay, MA – Briny with a Dry Finish<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">$2.5 each, 6/$13, 12/$25<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">LAMB PIZZA<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">House Made flatbread, Ground Lamb with Mediterranean Spices, Curried Green Tomato Sauce, Garnished with Mint $10<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;">PLATES</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">FISH<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Sautéed Salmon with a Dill Sauce, Salmon Caviar, Sautéed Kale, Red Rice $24<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">MEAT<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Grilled 8 oz. Fillet Mignon, Sautéed Shrimp in a Lemon Butter Sauce, Grilled Asparagus, Black Garlic Mashed Potatoes $32<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">PASTA<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Lobster Ravioli, Lobster Crème Sauce, Diced Tomatoes, Sautéed Spinach $19<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;">DESSERTS</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Rum Chiata Tres Leche</span></i></b><b><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"> – </span></b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Traditional South American dessert made with a moist cake soaked in three (tres) milks (leche) and topped with Rum Chiata Liqueur $8<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Cheese Cake</span></i></b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"> – Sweet Potato & Maple Layered Cheese Cake $6<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Sweet Apple Empanada</span></i></b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"> – house made Granny Smith & Gala Apple turnovers, dusted with Cinnamon Sugar $7<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">ASK YOUR SERVER FOR ADDITIONAL DESSERT OPTIONS<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">CAPPUCCINO, ESPRESSO, FRENCH PRESSED COFFEE</span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Please talk to us if you are thinking of a special occasion or an <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">overnight stay</a> for yourself or as a <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/giftCertificate.aspx" target="_blank">gift</a> this winter--we have special packages that we can customize just for you, including a mid-week escape, and Adventurer's Package, and more. We want to help you create special moments in Frenchtown. Our knowledgeable General Manager, Marlon Aranha, will help craft a memorable experience for you and your loved ones. Call us at 908.996.3200 or <a href="mailto:pete@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email us</a> with any questions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We send you our warmest wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2015. May it be filled with joyous moments and the opportunity to share a day with friends and family. Pete and I thank you for all you do to help us stay the course, better ourselves and improve every day. Do continue to <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email us</a> or post a comment here if you like. <span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Thank you for your continued patronage and support. Happy New Year once again!</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-55782654552115885882014-11-27T08:56:00.000-05:002014-11-27T08:56:08.595-05:00HAPPY THANKSGIVING!! It's a Season Filled with Gratefulness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZVxUrAXTwykZWacp5japsBN8DOxjlQ_1eX3WmmUnTOhNd9NMapDoAYZpBoKVi425cOkmaz2SBTNe0OyLmHcz8wG-csG_4XwsjMb4U6e2vDxFU3pKub8mav56m5K5t8RHBqYXyQbNPYo/s1600/TNH+Grand+Opening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZVxUrAXTwykZWacp5japsBN8DOxjlQ_1eX3WmmUnTOhNd9NMapDoAYZpBoKVi425cOkmaz2SBTNe0OyLmHcz8wG-csG_4XwsjMb4U6e2vDxFU3pKub8mav56m5K5t8RHBqYXyQbNPYo/s1600/TNH+Grand+Opening.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Our <b>fifth anniversary</b> came upon us faster than we could have imagined. It really is unbelievable that on November 3rd, 2009, we re-opened the doors to The National Hotel, and our very first patron, Henry, entered through <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerHistory.html" target="_blank">The Rathskeller Pub</a> (a.k.a. The Rat) entrance. He ran across the street to vote and to share the news with others. And then more of you came in, making it an incredible opening night, <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotelHistory.html" target="_blank">filled with stories</a> about the town, about The Rat, and about <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/index.html" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> itself.<div>
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And on November 3rd, 2014, we celebrated together, by announcing that The Rat would now be <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerHours.aspx" target="_blank">open every single Monday</a>, 5 p.m. to midnight! Our local patrons soon started to drop by and, between the wood burning fireplace that adds warmth to the room while providing a comfortable vibe, the sports programs on the TVs, and the <b>new Monday Happy Hour (5 pm - 7 pm) with 1/2-priced drinks</b>, we just couldn't be happier seeing how many of you are able to carve out a little time to join us. Grateful.</div>
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Last night we had the pleasure of hosting the <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Creek Snakes</a> band once again as they helped everyone unwind and have a little time "off" before today's big day. The music was wonderful, but more importantly, we are so grateful that you made the time to come by, to share with your friends, and to enjoy a night in our little gem of a town. Thank you!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaeG8u76F9JXSMpVopyIPhyphenhyphenBkc9x-Csym2n4UONrmZXi6WPQdH10AsYKQ-_aPQWWr1KnRqNMQWHmYF9AtGEDwJjfHAQZ6_0D-5M2K9yJo2AYkO6ImadjRzRCSThkoUbjQQeVjKycK4w0/s1600/WP_20141104_002%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaeG8u76F9JXSMpVopyIPhyphenhyphenBkc9x-Csym2n4UONrmZXi6WPQdH10AsYKQ-_aPQWWr1KnRqNMQWHmYF9AtGEDwJjfHAQZ6_0D-5M2K9yJo2AYkO6ImadjRzRCSThkoUbjQQeVjKycK4w0/s1600/WP_20141104_002%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a>Today is a special day for us, because we are able to be home as a family and also know that our staff will be able to do the same. They are so dedicated to The National Hotel and have such an incredible drive to be the very best, that we know they'll be back on Friday ready to help cater to our patrons' every need. And your feedback about how well they took care of you, from serving you dinner to helping you make sure your overnight stay is memorable, makes all the difference to us. Yet another reason to be thankful.</div>
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A lot has happened this year at The National Hotel, from launching new programs (like our weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Wednesday Karaoke Night</a>), to our mid-week special <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><span style="color: red;">(<b>$25 FORKS & CORKS WEDNESDAYS: </b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: red;">1 lb.-100% grass-fed-Porterhouse steak w/mashed potatoes and vegetable &/or 50% off a bottle of wine of YOUR choice!)</span></span></span> to continuing to renew our commitment to support local and sustainable farmers, to upgrading some furniture (new chairs in our private dining room; brand new flat screen TVs in each of our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">10 guest suites</a>), and more. This is in addition to all of the other special programs that have become weekly and bi-weekly traditions in Frenchtown (e.g., Thursday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a>, Tuesday Trivia, Saturday Night Live Music Series, and <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoons</a>). None of it would be possible without the continued support of patrons like you. Again, grateful.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbYi0u0rIoEOObBm9hayaA2naS9sztqctsSWH_Pd-uNZWcsugBiQjLNrRxJ38GCpaKMSZaLT5ljFfM3YHtdkMXdTvvD7HYbIo921BLkCIHH7RRsJRCjyQg29fn9guGDD-gPgcgJoac_A/s1600/10431270_10152598411376838_3104173410688899258_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbYi0u0rIoEOObBm9hayaA2naS9sztqctsSWH_Pd-uNZWcsugBiQjLNrRxJ38GCpaKMSZaLT5ljFfM3YHtdkMXdTvvD7HYbIo921BLkCIHH7RRsJRCjyQg29fn9guGDD-gPgcgJoac_A/s1600/10431270_10152598411376838_3104173410688899258_o.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you to Terry Earhart for sending us this historic photo of The National Hotel and Frenchtown</td></tr>
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Love is in the details, and at The National Hotel, it is reciprocated daily, because we know how much you love this wonderful, historic building. Pete and I will continue to do everything possible to honor the trust you have placed in our abilities to take good care of it. </div>
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We send you our warmest wishes for a wonderful Thanksgiving. May it be filled with joyous moments and the opportunity to share a day with friends and family. Pete and I thank you for all you do to help us stay the course, better ourselves and improve every day. Do continue to <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email us</a> or post a comment here if you like. <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Thank you for your continued patronage and support. Happy Thanksgiving once again!</span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-2529439150113474872014-08-30T12:37:00.002-04:002014-08-30T12:37:07.637-04:00LABOR DAY WEEKEND ACTIVITIES IN FRENCHTOWN, NJ<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Argentina's Danisa Fagan</td></tr>
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After a week of Tuesday Trivia, Wednesday Karaoke, Thursday <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a> following on the heels of Argentina's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC01nhErUKgFXCW8n7NDlr2Q" target="_blank">Danisa Fagan</a>'s live performance in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat) last Saturday night (performing sets that included jazz, bossa nova, tango, bolero and French songs), and Rob Lanter's live music performance on Sunday, we have an equally exciting weekend ahead!! Frenchtown, NJ holds its annual <a href="http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2014/08/frenchtown_celebrates_riverfes.html" target="_blank">Riverfest</a> celebration, 10 am - 5 pm. There will be lots of in-store special events around town, music, and food! And, you can start your day by supporting our local farmers, by visiting our <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/frenchtown-farmers-market-opens-sunday-june-2-from-10am-2pm/" target="_blank">Farmer's Market</a>, 10 a.m. - 2 pm. The National Hotel is also ready to welcome you. <br />
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From noon till closing, we'll have a lot of fun in <a href="http://www.njskylands.com/this_week" target="_blank">town</a> and the surrounding areas, and live music seems to be the common thread. Join us tonight from 9 - 11 pm in The Rat, for a live performance by <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Den and Sue</a>, always a crowd pleasing duo. <br />
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And don't forget about tomorrow's Sunday Musical Afternoon performer, <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">David Falcone</a>, 5 - 7 pm. <br />
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Sit on our porch, relax a little from the busy week, and take in the sights sipping on something refreshing, while you enjoy a delicious choice from our weekend <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Additions to the Menu</a>:<br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>DRINK
SPECIAL</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">PASSION FRUIT MARTINI<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Vodka, Rum, Grand Marnier, Passion
Fruit Juice, Served in a Shaker $9</span></span></i><b><i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></i></b></div>
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<span lang="IT" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">GREENS</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">ARUGULA &
WATERMELON SALAD<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Baby Arugula,
Diced Watermelon, Feta Cheese, Yellow Cherry Tomatoes, Cirtrus Vinaigrette $11</span></span></i><b><span lang="IT" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">SMALL PLATES</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">OYSTERS<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Wellfleet Oysters, MA – High
Salinity, Sharp Flavor<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Umami Oysters, Rhode Island –
Intensely Sweet, High Brine<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">$2.5 each,
6/$13, 12/$25<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">ROASTED FIGS<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Roasted Fresh Figs, Topped with Blue Cheese Crumbles, Balsamic
Drizzle $6</span></i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">PLATES</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">FISH<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pan Seared Tilapia, Ripe Mango Salsa,
Black Rice, Sautéed Zucchini Squash $19<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">STEAK<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Braised Beef Short Rib with the Bone In, Black Garlic Mashed
Potatoes, Locally grown Roma String Beans $28</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">PASTA (Vegetarian/Available Vegan)<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Penne Pasta, Mushrooms,
Sweet Peas, Mascarpone Cheese, Vegetable Broth, Drizzled with White Truffle Oil
$18</span></span></i><span style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">DESSERTS</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><span style="line-height: 115%;">Chocolate Truffle Bomba</span></i></b><i><span style="line-height: 115%;"> – Zabalone Crème,
Covered with Chocolate Ice Cream, Hazelnuts & dusted with Coco powder $6</span></i></span><i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">ASK YOUR SERVER FOR
ADDITIONAL DESSERT OPTIONS<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: x-small;">CAPPUCCINO, ESPRESSO, FRENCH PRESSED COFFEE</span><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;">While we're talking about food...mark your calendars to come by on Wednesdays, where you can take advantage of our newest promotion: <span style="color: red;"><b>$25 FORKS & CORKS WEDNESDAYS</b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: red;">(1 lb.-100% grass-fed-Porterhouse steak w/mashed potatoes and vegetable &/or 50% off a bottle of wine of YOUR choice!)</span>. Come earlier and make it a super day: Ladies' Night, 5 - 7 pm in The Rat with 1/2 priced drinks!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And if the night gets long...why not make it a mid-week escape and stay with us overnight? We are so grateful to our overnight guests who wrote these kind words in our Guest Book. THANK YOU!! It means so much to us every time we read these pages, especially when we see that guests return time and again, continuing to enjoy our guest suites, and making Frenchtown their chosen destination, whether traveling from afar or accommodating family and friends who are visiting our lovely little town.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pete and I hope to see you in Frenchtown and at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> in the near future. Please do <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a>. We have a lot coming up this coming month. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you again. Here's to a wonderful, long, & restful Labor Day holiday weekend!!!</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-47812854733451597102014-07-03T22:52:00.000-04:002014-07-03T22:52:01.089-04:00CELEBRATING OUR NATION'S INDEPENDENCE DAY AS A COMMUNITY<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On the cusp of July 4th, I look out the window of our lobby and take it all in: The passersby; the vintage cars that take their time to savor every moment of being on Race Street in Frenchtown, NJ; the visitors carrying shopping bags from our local and unique stores; the families walking with strollers and children being held by their hands. It's so serene, so beautiful, that it reminds me of the very significance of our great nation's Independence Day and all that we have at our fingertips today having built upon that foundation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6eMvjAEUifXgNZfb6cmo93swGfv-9ViaforxObCteJzLSuPTgCgr-K9ZN_LGFlJfN7m8yJfLuvsSnI4qIBS35NJDm82F9g1COIAiLPsHNnPA5ya-ZiHwOjgo2do_CdVRKRuBa7edKi4/s1600/George+Washington+DE+Crossing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6eMvjAEUifXgNZfb6cmo93swGfv-9ViaforxObCteJzLSuPTgCgr-K9ZN_LGFlJfN7m8yJfLuvsSnI4qIBS35NJDm82F9g1COIAiLPsHNnPA5ya-ZiHwOjgo2do_CdVRKRuBa7edKi4/s1600/George+Washington+DE+Crossing.jpg" /></a>I think about the decisive battle on Christmas, fought just a little bit south of where we are, and imagine George Washington crossing the Delaware River--the same river that brings locals and tourists great joy and an escape from "life." When I walk on the <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">Delware and Raritan Canal Trail</a> (or simply the "Towpath" too) that was designed so beautifully to run parallel to this gift of nature, I love seeing the cyclists who ride their bicycles past me, the kayakers enjoying the river, and the families who trek to this little corner of our world, to have a family fun day tubing on the Delaware River. Of course, given the weather yesterday and today, the river was devoid of this activity, with the major tubing company on our side of the river, <a href="http://www.delawarerivertubing.com/" target="_blank">Delaware River Tubing</a>, always putting people's safety ahead of profits and closing during these bad weather days. <br />
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As the storm unleashed it's rapid fury late this afternoon, I looked out the window and was in awe of the majesty of the storm, the calm that followed, and the rapid pace of the night afterwards in our Restaurant and Bar, when guests started arriving quickly, all trying to find a respite from the deluge.<br />
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As the evening winds down on our main floor and activity increases in <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">The Rathskeller Pub</a> (a.k.a. the Rat), I steal a moment to write this. It is during these "quiet" moments, that often allow me to think, to reflect, and to be thankful. I am especially grateful for our staff, who are so genuine, so dedicated, and so conscientious. I watch them talking with our patrons, serving them, and doing all they can to make their day a little better than before they entered <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>. It makes such a difference knowing that they have internalized our vision for this historic establishment. Again, thankful. Simply and honestly, grateful.<br />
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To all of you, Pete and I wish you a wonderful July 4th. Those of you who braved the rain storm and came, we hope you enjoyed the <a href="http://www.brinleygoldshipwreck.com/" target="_blank">Brinley Shipwreck Rum</a> Tasting event with Zack Brinley this evening. And, if you're still here enjoying our Pre-Independence Day celebration featuring a live music performance by <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/dennismacaronemidtowndirect" target="_blank">Midtown Direct</a>, thank you for your continued patronage.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pete and I hope to see you in Frenchtown and at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> in the near future. Please do <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a>. We have a lot coming up this month, from this Saturday's live music featuring Mike Pfeiffer, to live music with Arnie Baird on Sunday, and much more. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for this special season:</span></div>
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Thank you again. Here's to a wonderful July 4th!!!</div>
The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-42779855235077719532014-05-31T19:23:00.000-04:002014-05-31T19:23:00.391-04:00END-OF-MAY BLISS LEADS TO A GREAT MONTH OF JUNE AHEAD<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkByrf98LwVJekzBfXCmGEfa6NJcBdjNp7oJ_GDrE_0HGGXOn2FcC_OqkSnw0gZbOgUCls4DBQr-XBUGik5kMsCHcXK42tTJHDEu9qPrQrTzlLsrKfFRJP2EkUrJDn3lc9DgWU_y6FOs0/s1600/WP_20140525_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkByrf98LwVJekzBfXCmGEfa6NJcBdjNp7oJ_GDrE_0HGGXOn2FcC_OqkSnw0gZbOgUCls4DBQr-XBUGik5kMsCHcXK42tTJHDEu9qPrQrTzlLsrKfFRJP2EkUrJDn3lc9DgWU_y6FOs0/s1600/WP_20140525_001.jpg" height="236" width="320" /></a></div>
We definitely received a gift: An incredibly beautiful spring day!! I love the way the sun shines over <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> as you come down the hill from Route 12; it never ceases to take my breath away. Having our front porch open and filled with smiling faces from satisfied customers just absolutely completes this picture!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39mOZhxdrKKaifAuqyASGoTKHMN063-53fdP-Iy3WMPBMo3yK_FE9fjoqEwWF8W1kcnjJkEWALVAFLDEYpB0qn15Ago2YiFgRk8TZ4Qde9hH8EXkHuGm8ondkNIV1o0q0VjBrE4B_b9o/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39mOZhxdrKKaifAuqyASGoTKHMN063-53fdP-Iy3WMPBMo3yK_FE9fjoqEwWF8W1kcnjJkEWALVAFLDEYpB0qn15Ago2YiFgRk8TZ4Qde9hH8EXkHuGm8ondkNIV1o0q0VjBrE4B_b9o/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" height="320" width="270" /></a>Tomorrow is supposed to be a picture-perfect spring day & we couldn't be happier! We have a special musical group lined up to entertain our dining guests, 5-7 p.m. in our main Restaurant and Bar: <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">El Bandito</a>. They will surely create a special way to close out this gorgeous weekend that will have you <i>"chomping at the bit"</i> for next weekend's line-up that will soon be posted on our website...pun intended, given that it'll be the <a href="http://www.belmontstakes.com/" target="_blank">Belmont Stakes</a> and even if you don't follow the races, this will be yet another reason to get together Saturday afternoon and share our lives together. Make sure to mark your calendars for June 7th and cheer on your fave, even if it's not California Chrome! The 3rd and final leg of the Triple Crown is, after all, "the test of the champion." Can you say, "exciting?!"<br />
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And another reason to say thank you, is the recent award we received from TripAdvisor that absolutely floored us, because we know we OWE IT TO YOU!!! Thank you for your feedback and for continuing to support us and share your experiences with TripAdvisor, Yelp, facebook, and other online forums.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-0ABsHIKyke7xTJHpu0wg22-uA4aUfcZVXDrM0SAgjS5-gL5R2UaegtS_TdJpVmjGR1pRKG68-kePjM0TjaFPSGc0s_KkI35BxVZjPbuNF8Xfx7b_OW7YHKji93_8D0HdQQ3wYktDfc/s1600/TripAdvisor+2014+Certificate+TNH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-0ABsHIKyke7xTJHpu0wg22-uA4aUfcZVXDrM0SAgjS5-gL5R2UaegtS_TdJpVmjGR1pRKG68-kePjM0TjaFPSGc0s_KkI35BxVZjPbuNF8Xfx7b_OW7YHKji93_8D0HdQQ3wYktDfc/s1600/TripAdvisor+2014+Certificate+TNH.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's also unbelievable how quickly May is winding down! Maybe it's because of all of the activities in our area, from the local schools' proms, graduations, teacher-talent nights, and plays, to the area's myriad activities, ranging from cycle clubs touring our area's local roads to new initiatives that keep tourists and locals in town. <br />
<a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJi3PUCT9g3t_2A7hAK6olT6AuBSR9V8YVRnSBgjQRv-rHJjxEg5iHwcrHGhJUvhZir9kb9qtoFhFMsDnYLK2Yl7ZSE7DfZBx6zCvk1OZxg8nwXvJYyQwrUOyJ2RU9KsfNRSaTr_2kNUI/s1600/Karaoke.jpg" height="200" width="155" /></a><br />
From next weekend's Farmer's Market opening in <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a> on June 2nd running through October 27th (10 a.m. - 2 p.m.), to our very own NEW Wednesday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Karaoke Night</a> that launched last month, featuring DJ Papa Gs repertoire of hundreds of songs (with on-screen lyrics), this little corner of the world has an invitation card all crafted & carved with your name engraved!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwsxAVRlHSks7klVu08CsuOcw0Wx4Cnm0swx5cENot0CRSREB9T0VXHAsT4YqPvDEI1zjlHECgKZIsevNyx5qhwkGeX-tCdj6zU5XN-0cFKI8cuOJRg6h0Yb-wcL-ikPTPpnegG-j6n-Y/s1600/TNH+Gift+Voucher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwsxAVRlHSks7klVu08CsuOcw0Wx4Cnm0swx5cENot0CRSREB9T0VXHAsT4YqPvDEI1zjlHECgKZIsevNyx5qhwkGeX-tCdj6zU5XN-0cFKI8cuOJRg6h0Yb-wcL-ikPTPpnegG-j6n-Y/s1600/TNH+Gift+Voucher.jpg" /></a>But let's not forget about <b><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;">Father's Day</span></b> too...The National Hotel has an entire <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">weekend menu</a> planned for that special day (that we'll post next week) so that YOU can decide when you'd like to celebrate: Friday, Saturday, or Sunday!! Make the special man you are honoring truly feel special as you choose the special day, time, and activity. Call us at 908.996.3200 or <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/reservations.aspx" target="_blank">click here</a> to make your reservation, be it lunch or dinner, or even an <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">overnight stay with special add-ons</a> to make it an unforgettable Father's Day experience. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1miYqZ2qM7wxWy_usikEW50Afg_J14sxhBp4IJLoqnNUv0BFoN8z2hjjJZfjlLeWq_K-SAc7jSSB5eRvbMGjSpmhFGdnbuSYtIQFXeVv9K4AFONxS1hqfuHzrOQzH1wQohEpS5pbWCU/s1600/tnh+wc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1miYqZ2qM7wxWy_usikEW50Afg_J14sxhBp4IJLoqnNUv0BFoN8z2hjjJZfjlLeWq_K-SAc7jSSB5eRvbMGjSpmhFGdnbuSYtIQFXeVv9K4AFONxS1hqfuHzrOQzH1wQohEpS5pbWCU/s1600/tnh+wc.jpg" height="320" width="204" /></a><br />
How about giving that special person a gift that will make him think of you and thank you <i>EVERY SINGLE MONTH OF THE YEAR?!</i> Why not give him a membership gift to our monthly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/wineclub/" target="_blank">National Wine Club</a>? And if you'd prefer something a little different, why not just give him a <b><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/giftCertificate.aspx" target="_blank">Gift Certificate</a></b> that will allow him to choose the many options available? Call us at 908.996.3200 or <a href="mailto:pete@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email us</a> to talk to our knowledgeable staff.<br />
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With everything we've just mentioned, I don't want to forget about the many other options that The National Hotel offers our patrons:<br />
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<li>Bi-Weekly Tuesday Trivia</li>
<li>Weekly Thursday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a></li>
<li>Monthly First Saturday Music Themed Night</li>
<li>Weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoons</a></li>
<li>and more!</li>
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All of this is complemented by Frenchtown's list of upcoming activities, from the Farmer's Market in June to Bastille Day in July. Even beyond the planned activities, our area offers a ton of options, from kayaking to tubing to bicycling and hiking--not to mention shopping, spa treatments, yoga sessions, pilates training, etc. As we clear away the winter blues and see the extended hours allowing us to spend more time outdoors, Frenchtown comes alive! </div>
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Thank you for all that you continue to do to make Frenchtown your chosen destination. Whether you are a local resident or someone who enjoys visiting our area, make sure to visit our website for updates on things to do while you plan your time in Frenchtown. It will be our pleasure to serve you and to make your stay with us memorable and something that you will long treasure.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Pete and I hope to see you in Frenchtown and at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> in the near future. Please do </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="background-color: white; color: #999999; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;"> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="background-color: white; color: #999999; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;"> on our </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #999999; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for this special season:</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you again.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-81522714388827169742014-04-28T11:44:00.000-04:002014-04-28T11:58:32.216-04:00FROM FLOWERS TO NEW PROGRAMS, EVERYTHING IS BLOOMING AT THE NATIONAL HOTEL<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Spring arrived but <i>old man winter</i> has had a hard time letting go this year. Still, seeing the flowers starting to bloom and lawns starting to turn green, refreshes the senses and lifts one's spirits. It inspired us to plant some flowers in front of <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>'s main entrance, to replace all the beautiful flowers that had been planted back in 2009 by Kristine Gryl Marinelli (<a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/friends.aspx" target="_blank">KM Interior Design</a>), after we took ownership of this historic building. It seemed like a minor inconvenience losing all those flowers after SuperStorm Sandy, compared to all the damage and destruction that storm brought with it. But it was time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV44yG06alqyjRYotXtb5paPSvQ3bfxMXlVnKY4UoT1HAzb77y4eSJrbDbHyQ4wLOtId-sNdPYg8_Kmbb0izpe3IesWPaR1UA71iBtuVvR3FDA1ySrjpq4sKVpFFLrOcpH1FddprCG1lw/s1600/WP_20140414_003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV44yG06alqyjRYotXtb5paPSvQ3bfxMXlVnKY4UoT1HAzb77y4eSJrbDbHyQ4wLOtId-sNdPYg8_Kmbb0izpe3IesWPaR1UA71iBtuVvR3FDA1ySrjpq4sKVpFFLrOcpH1FddprCG1lw/s1600/WP_20140414_003.jpg" height="200" width="112" /></a>It became a "family affair," as so much of our personal lives are intertwined with the love and respect we hold for The National Hotel. Even on Mondays, when only the <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">Hotel</a> is open, we are often in Frenchtown, NJ tweaking this or that, replenishing supplies, deep cleaning carpets or tending to the beautiful, original pumpkin pine floors that welcome our guests. Last week we weeded and planted; the week before that we spent Monday resetting computers with our new <span style="color: #38761d;"><b><i><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Spring Menu</a></i></b></span> that was unveiled on April 15th, as well as doing a full staff training that very night. The latter is an essential ingredient that helps us deliver the quality of service that our patrons demand. It's our attentive, friendly, and caring staff that continues to amaze us. We are so appreciative of all of their hard work and their dedication to The National Hotel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWq9cLbgpId-qdeBlXoLFaiYzpnWw9sgYsLPG43J4qVis_d7fnG6wCss_N9qlxN26Y_60c7S8aGVtyOypJ7ry3S1tWAO8isbwngf-DomK3yxMF66-q2gwBa7q2S_vUimn4nZwobKzvR-I/s1600/tnh+gc.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWq9cLbgpId-qdeBlXoLFaiYzpnWw9sgYsLPG43J4qVis_d7fnG6wCss_N9qlxN26Y_60c7S8aGVtyOypJ7ry3S1tWAO8isbwngf-DomK3yxMF66-q2gwBa7q2S_vUimn4nZwobKzvR-I/s1600/tnh+gc.bmp" /></a>All I can say is that with their help, <b>WE ARE READY FOR <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">MOTHER'S DAY</a>!!!</b> That all-important day where we have the opportunity to honor our mothers, the mother of our children, or women in our lives who are nurturing and who make all the difference. We're planning a special menu that weekend that will definitely say to that special lady in your life: <b><i><u>I VALUE YOU!</u></i></b> Make your reservations early; call us at 908.996.3200 or <a href="mailto:info@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email us</a>, or if you'd prefer, present her with a <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/giftCertificate.aspx" target="_blank">Gift Certificate</a> to The National Hotel.</div>
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And speaking of ladies, following on the heels of our weekly <i>Wednesday Ladies' Night</i> (with 1/2-priced drinks for ladies, 5-7 pm in The Rathskeller Pub, a.k.a. The Rat), which has become a ritual for many, meeting up with friends and often, making new ones, last week also marked the launch of our brand new <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerKaraokeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Wednesday Karaoke Night</a>--something many of you have asked us repeatedly to establish. We needed to wait to find the right person to host the night, the right music selection, etc. We have established a long tradition of making sure that we take care of our guests and allow many of our programs to develop organically. But with your encouragement, we found the right person, as anyone who attended last Wednesday's launch night can attest:<br />
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And while The National Hotel offers these great opportunities for community connections often on six nights of the week, Frenchtown itself has been busy creating many such opportunities, from getting neighbors involved to help clean up <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/local-government/boards-commissions-committees/green-team/frenchtown-park-community-clean-day/" target="_blank">Frenchtown Park</a> earlier this month, to planting trees at <a href="http://www.kingwoodtownship.com/parks#Horseshoe Bend Park" target="_blank">Horseshoe Bend Park</a> (a 450+ acre preserved park with some of the best views of the Delaware River and wonderful hiking trails), to "<a href="http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2014/04/fit_frenchtown_starts_april_27.html" target="_blank">Fit Frenchtown</a>" which kicked off yesterday, focusing on a campaign for wellness created by the town's mayor, Warren Cooper. Fit Frenchtown activities included participation from <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/aroundFT.aspx" target="_blank">Yoga Loka</a> offering a free yoga class yesterday, engaging students from the Frenchtown Elementary School Running Club, and will continue for the next few months with a women's wellness series planned, a softball game, walks along the bike path (<a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park</a>), and more.<br />
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And there's a lot to look forward to if you're planning to visit our area from out-of-state, or are a resident in search of new activities, including a <a href="http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2014/04/world-class_archery_center_lik.html" target="_blank">world-class archery center</a> that is likely to be built in Union Township across from the entrance to <a href="http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/spruce.html" target="_blank">Spruce Run Reservoir State Park</a>, and could be used by would-be Olympians. There are currently only 3 such centers in the entire country.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7VOXVFgdV9l_hJYubFSlSze4lB7BsKL042yX3HtaiV2XOsMnCC4qqoCX7upq1r4f8Bz6JQjw0aKLxSo6TK324gj9HMlXvgFkEr7b-5TXqFEp5fkGIUooSoGpfhUpcxa0ydQUxUSQuVs/s1600/WP_20140414_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7VOXVFgdV9l_hJYubFSlSze4lB7BsKL042yX3HtaiV2XOsMnCC4qqoCX7upq1r4f8Bz6JQjw0aKLxSo6TK324gj9HMlXvgFkEr7b-5TXqFEp5fkGIUooSoGpfhUpcxa0ydQUxUSQuVs/s1600/WP_20140414_005.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a>As you can see, there's a little something for everyone in our little corner of the world, from sports, to health and fitness, to shopping, to finding that sweet spot when you look to escape from the daily grind. Our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/amenities.aspx" target="_blank">Hotel</a> guests often share that what Frenchtown offers is different from anywhere else they have traveled; a unique and <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">special experience</a>. At <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>, we'll continue to bring you exceptional programming, wonderful lunch and dinner experiences, fresh and delicious signature drinks, continue to explore new wine and beer choices to complement your meals, and provide you with attention to detail during your overnight stays. This is at the very core of everything we do, always challenging ourselves to improve and to bring you innovative programs that will help make <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/reservations.aspx" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> part of your weekly plans.<br />
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One of the best outcomes from the programs we schedule is the feedback we receive from those in attendance and the enthusiasm you demonstrate when these special nights come around. If you've been to our Bi-Weekly Tuesday Trivia Nights (next one is scheduled for May 5th), then you know first-hand just how much time and effort <b>Russ Coen</b> (the night's creator) and our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/RestStaff.aspx" target="_blank">General Manager, <b>Marlon Aranha</b></a>, put into each of Russ' unique and well-developed trivia questions. Everyone is welcome to join and "first-timers" are always embraced. I have always loved that about The National Hotel's loyal patrons--they are the first ones to welcome you into the group, making it easy for anyone new to feel right at home, especially in the more relaxed Rathskeller Pub, the area's "late night destination," also dubbed "The Frenchtown Underground" by Alex Wolfson back in 2010:<br />
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[July 2010 Open Mic Night]</div>
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And from that to our regular music that continues to captivate us, from our weekly Thursday <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a> (which, by the way, was also created by one of our loyal patrons, <b>Alex Wolfson</b>), to our Saturday Night Live Music series, to our Sunday Afternoon Music series; we live in an exceptional part of the country, where the appreciation of and for art is palpable. The musicians who sign-up for Open Mic Night are joyful to perform, while those of us who can sit and enjoy their music, are in awe of their talent and appreciate the gift they bring each and every week. Thank you to all of these artists, and to you for supporting them too.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pete and I hope to see you in Frenchtown and at The National Hotel in the near future. Please do <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for this special season:</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you again.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-46888502716709702342014-03-02T14:46:00.002-05:002014-03-02T14:46:16.764-05:00THERE'S SO MUCH THAT FRENCHTOWN OFFERS!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
February came and went leaving us all craving a little bit of spring. Today, we were given a little respite from the cold temperatures of the last week of February, only to be reminded that winter is not yet over; there's a storm heading our way. Hopefully, we'll be spared the magnitude originally predicted. All I hear at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> from our patrons, is that they are "DONE" with winter; the shoveling; the ice; the treacherous driving conditions. We have to agree. It's time for a little bit of spring. However, I also remind myself that one of the reasons we live in the northeast of the US, is precisely because we love experiencing each one of the four seasons. There is an absolute beauty to winter that is just breathtaking.<br />
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And let's not forget that this area produced two Olympians who recently competed in the Sochi Winter Olympics: <a href="http://www.nj.com/olympics/index.ssf/2014/02/sochi_olympics_2014_how_two_skaters_from_a_tiny_new_jersey_skating_rink_chased_olympic_glory.html" target="_blank">Kyle Carr and Chris Creveling</a>. Creveling was part of <a href="http://www.nj.com/olympics/index.ssf/2014/02/sochi_olympics_2014_new_jerseys_chris_creveling_part_of_silver_medal_team_in_short_track.html" target="_blank">silver medal team</a> in short track. How proud they must be; how proud this little town is of them, as they both frequented the Frenchtown Roller Rink and participated in speed skating competitions. Amazing!<br />
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Today, as we welcomed our lunch guests to our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/RestPhotos.aspx" target="_blank">Restaurant & Bar</a>, I saw just how grateful they were for the warm winter drinks--Mulled Wine!!--and the hot dishes from our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Additions to the Menu</a> and our main menu that came out of the kitchen. It is such a privilege to be able to welcome new friends and old friends to The National Hotel, to provide them with a little escape from the daily grind, from house chores, from "routine." And, to be located in such a beautiful little gem of a town with all that it offers its residents and visitors alike, is like winning the lottery. There are many small towns all over the country, but there is something uniquely intimate and welcoming about Frenchtown, NJ. It's a place where you can enjoy a day of shopping--or, a day outdoors walking or cycling right next to the Delaware River, or hiking nearby on the 300+-acre preserved Horseshoe Bend Park. In other words, there's a little bit of heaven right here, fulfilling everyone's desires.<br />
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We're featuring <b>David Turner</b> this afternoon, 5 - 7 p.m., part of our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoon Series</a>. There's always something special happening at The National Hotel--and that's probably why we've been nicknamed the area's "Late Night Destination." Between our Bi-Weekly Tuesday Trivia Night, our Weekly Thursday Open Mic Night, our Saturday Night Live Music Series, and of course, our Sunday program, there's always something to do in town.<br />
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Have you had a chance to stop in pick up a book from our town's favorite book shop, <a href="http://www.bookgarden.biz/" target="_blank">The Book Garden</a>? They offer writing classes, meet-the-author events, etc. And it's housed in a beautifully maintained building just a few blocks from The National Hotel. <br />
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What about <a href="http://www.designsfortranquility.com/" target="_blank">Designs for Tranquility</a>, with its lovely paintings, water fountains, jewelry, and small accessories? Owner, Jill Paul, and her husband, Russ Hoge, go out of their way to select items that are meaningful, unique, and handmade. I've always loved entering their lovely shop and chatting with them; they are so passionate about the beautiful items they carry.<br />
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And like these two shops, there are <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/aroundFT.aspx" target="_blank">many others in town</a> that will surely brighten a somewhat bleak day, fill you with ideas, and encourage you to come back. That's the underlying lovely principle that you'll find everywhere you go in Frenchtown: People here want you to visit, want you to linger, want you to stay!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIwug5jCNhUQfvMAWzV-YgqX-h34H5XDi4TjwKN7np7oaNt8_zEmHIIlGaRPChCjudUZ_2kBp1S46GHxSJGo2LK47JlCS0cvU3c2vRX4b_QGiJssV5R_e-736efCNTsHHGysPKw2sIh0/s1600/WP_20140222_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIwug5jCNhUQfvMAWzV-YgqX-h34H5XDi4TjwKN7np7oaNt8_zEmHIIlGaRPChCjudUZ_2kBp1S46GHxSJGo2LK47JlCS0cvU3c2vRX4b_QGiJssV5R_e-736efCNTsHHGysPKw2sIh0/s1600/WP_20140222_001.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a>So if the Frenchtown "bug" has bitten you and you want to make this a place you'll visit more often, give us a call (908.996.3200) and make it an <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">overnight stay</a>. Our knowledgeable concierge will help you select the guest suite that best fits your needs, as well as help you make the most of your stay, including just how to add <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">special packages</a> like yoga sessions, pilates, etc. As a small establishment in a small town, we know how important YOU are, and we will do everything possible to make your stay with us a memorable experience that will make you want to return to Frenchtown.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Pete and I hope to see you in Frenchtown and at The National Hotel in the near future. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Please do <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for this special season:</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you again.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0Frenchtown, NJ, USA40.5262138 -75.06155999999998640.5020753 -75.101900499999985 40.5503523 -75.021219499999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-17832942769195842472014-01-26T14:55:00.001-05:002014-01-26T14:55:06.494-05:00COULD IT GET ANY COLDER?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
January always signifies a fresh start to me--even with these sub-zero wind chill temps. I'm looking forward to listening to <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Rob Lanter's</a> music this afternoon, to help me take the chill off the day and reconcile so much that's happened! Each new year is an opportunity to assess goals and plans. Interestingly, reflecting back is also a part of the process, and one thing that sticks with me is the topic of a meeting I attended last year while wearing my other hat as a fundraiser in the not-for-profit world, where we discussed the concept of "Joy" in the workplace. Even though, I confess, I was somewhat skeptical, it made me think of my work at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>. There isn't a moment when I'm working here that I don't experience a sense of pride, a sense of fulfillment, and the absolute joy of having the privilege of being able to work to bring this historic establishment well into the 21st century, while preserving the legacy of the original family who built it and proudly operated it back in the mid-1800s.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTkxHEps-aS1Y6RSb8ePzRCdzKdFOHKiFbi9cjRpIjTniY5dCh9_OC_vq-W2CGghHc_6uSCOLMav0t2oUsZ-7lJ8ziFA9XORaPl88VErOiMEJ3iZvmwpzrkmwxXg1CdufpmqXnlGe4Ss/s1600/bar+looking+out+adjusted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTkxHEps-aS1Y6RSb8ePzRCdzKdFOHKiFbi9cjRpIjTniY5dCh9_OC_vq-W2CGghHc_6uSCOLMav0t2oUsZ-7lJ8ziFA9XORaPl88VErOiMEJ3iZvmwpzrkmwxXg1CdufpmqXnlGe4Ss/s1600/bar+looking+out+adjusted.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqML53U54hOoCo0JOa-7PLraCDepd1cOvNBUkONZ5arIoYYW8BCjWonosj_fSJy3WDchcf-kXLz_-2i26gVC6YfVsRjGZwYYZsgJ8uUH6yltMfa9HlPam8eA1Lbl9X_FL0Pv_SpHLy4c/s1600/xmas+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqML53U54hOoCo0JOa-7PLraCDepd1cOvNBUkONZ5arIoYYW8BCjWonosj_fSJy3WDchcf-kXLz_-2i26gVC6YfVsRjGZwYYZsgJ8uUH6yltMfa9HlPam8eA1Lbl9X_FL0Pv_SpHLy4c/s1600/xmas+pic.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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Joyful. Yes, that's definitely the correct way to describe how Pete and I feel. Joyful, when we have the opportunity to share our passion with our patrons and friends. Joyful, when we are able to source items from local and sustainable farmers for our menu, allowing us to contribute to our local economy in a meaningful way, while providing our Restaurant patrons with the freshest ingredients, especially as we planned and worked on our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Valentine's Day menu</a>. Here's my plug: <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/reservations.aspx" target="_blank">Reserve your table NOW!</a><br />
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Joyful, when our guests recount stories about The National Hotel from years gone by--this <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotelHistory.html" target="_blank">oral history</a> is an invaluable part of The National Hotel's history. Joyful, when our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">overnight guests</a> write notes in our guest book that describe why they enjoyed their stay, whether it be the food, the hospitality, or the <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">weekly entertainment</a>--and often, how they can't wait to plan their next trip to Frenchtown, NJ and The National Hotel. Just plain joyful!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Borough <br />of Frenchtown website</td></tr>
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And why not? There are so many things to do in our area, so many possibilities of how to add a true quality of life factor to one's experience in Frenchtown, that it is no wonder that guest after guest conveys their desire to return. As a quick example, how about the <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/ice-skating-in-borough-park/" target="_blank">free ice-skating "rink"</a> that just opened in town, thanks to the Frenchtown Fire Department and the town government. Last night's opening night was a huge success, a real old-fashioned small-town moment that brought young and old out, even with the cold temperatures, to enjoy a slice of Americana, with a bonfire to boot! Truly, Frenchtown is a unique hidden gem, filled with artists, one-of-a-kind shops and galleries, activities to please the soul, body, and mind, from relaxation workshops, to a high-end spa right in town, to fitness studios offering <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">yoga</a>, <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">pilates</a>, and more--all with the personal touch and attention to detail that can only be possible by having the proprietors deeply involved in their establishments and in the community.<br />
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And speaking of community, let's take a moment to acknowledge the work the Frenchtown police department did during the storms: They <a href="http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2014/01/frenchtown_police_offer_emerge.html#incart_river" target="_blank">delivered prescription medications</a> to those who couldn't drive in the inclement weather, especially the elderly Frenchtown residents and those whose health prevented them from leaving their homes. There are so many wonderful people in town, helping each other, being "neighborly" to neighbors and visitors alike. We are lucky, really fortunate to enjoy the benefits of being a part of this small town.<br />
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A small town, in fact, nestled in an absolutely beautiful and pristine area. Let's not forget just how beautiful a simple walk on the <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">Delaware Towpath</a> can be--parallel to the Delaware River, peaceful, lovely--especially with the sun setting west of the river. And now, with all the snow (even with the shoveling that goes along with it), the area can aptly claim its name of a "winter wonderland." Those of us who have the privilege of calling this area our home, are blessed indeed, as are those of you who are fortunate enough to have discovered Frenchtown and the surrounding areas, with each season bringing a new dynamic and a different experience to your visit.<br />
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Pete and I hope that 2014 has started for you in a remarkable way, full of promise and renewal. We hope to see you in Frenchtown and at The National Hotel in the near future. <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Please do </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;"> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;"> on our </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for this special season:</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you again.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-56381091656863362592013-12-30T12:50:00.002-05:002013-12-31T01:01:54.799-05:00GOOD-BYE 2013...HELLO 2014!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Pete and I are so excited to celebrate the birth of the New Year with you at <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>! Thank you to so many of you who have already RSVP'd for tomorrow night's celebration in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat), starting at 9:30 p.m.! We have just a handful of tickets left--as in just 4!!--because we are limiting the number of people so that those who registered can truly enjoy our featured musicians, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rainbowfresh" target="_blank">Rainbow Fresh</a>!! If you didn't sign up and are interested, <b>please call 908.996.3200</b> tomorrow morning, in case any spots remain. With a humble door fee of $10 per person in advance and $15 at the door, we knew this would be a sold-out event, and still allow everyone to enjoy a special night with an area favorite.<br />
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And to boot, by popular request: <br />
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<i><span style="color: red;"><b>The National Hotel's main Bar will be open on Wednesday, New Year's day, from 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. </b></span></i> Sorry, but our kitchen staff needs a day off after the 31st, so we will not be offering food, except for the "liquid" kind. Now that's the way to keep the celebratory mood going right into 2014!! <br />
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To bring this full circle, I recently heard someone say that the holiday season is the closing punctuation to the year, where we are forced to stop what we are doing, give thanks, and take the time to breathe and be with friends and family. I found this to be incredibly poignant. How true it is that the month of December captivates all of us, with people of different faiths reuniting with their families, friends, neighbors...building community. This speaks volumes about how Pete and I look at our roles as proprietors of The National Hotel: Community. We thank you for a blessed 2013 that you have made so special for us, for our staff, and for other patrons. Your support has carried us through our 5th holiday season at The National Hotel, and has allowed us to have great expectations for the New Year ahead.<br />
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We look forward to seeing you tomorrow and into the New Year. Don't forget about our "regularly scheduled programs," including:<br />
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<li>weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Thursday Open Mic Night</a></li>
<li>weekly Saturday Night Live music series</li>
<li>weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoon</a> series</li>
<li>bi-weekly Tuesday Trivia</li>
<li>monthly Music Themed Night on the 1st Saturday of the month</li>
<li>monthly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/wineclub/" target="_blank">National Wine Club</a> ($10/month) exclusive selections</li>
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If you'd like to make it a get-away week, be sure to call us at 908.996.3200 or <a href="mailto:info@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email us</a> to make your reservation. We have wonderful <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">overnight packages</a> including one for this special time of year. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv80C-v4h1D6d0ZiJ046jXPx-O2LHxEecpCSE8sucWPoZi2whEQUynNN2YW6_2mXWLEzX4c35B65gUlsn3jxkKxatvdktwQnFy-_ZlGh2DORlvrCCZdTSM6lRxPV9F1OCVJn9Xaz7HJ8/s1600/logo+edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv80C-v4h1D6d0ZiJ046jXPx-O2LHxEecpCSE8sucWPoZi2whEQUynNN2YW6_2mXWLEzX4c35B65gUlsn3jxkKxatvdktwQnFy-_ZlGh2DORlvrCCZdTSM6lRxPV9F1OCVJn9Xaz7HJ8/s200/logo+edited.JPG" width="98" /></a>Overall, whether it's a night out or an overnight stay, our patrons make <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotelHistory.html" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> what it is today--and continue to add to its many years of history. It all comes down to COMMUNITY. And, we are so fortunate to be right smack in the middle of the best group of people with whom we've ever shared our lives, from patrons, to musicians, to neighbors, to staff. Thank you!<br />
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As we approach the very last days of this year, Pete and I want to thank you again for your patronage and support. You buoy our spirits, and we will carry this immensely satisfying feeling well into 2014! Happy New Year to you and yours!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please do <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for this special season:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you again.</span></span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-59685894482750099922013-11-30T12:12:00.001-05:002013-11-30T12:12:05.083-05:00ALMOST DECEMBER...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It feels as if once we get to the end of November, the days just fly by. This week we had such a great time at our annual Pre-Thanksgiving Celebration featuring <i>The Bad Hands</i>, who entertained us through the midnight hour, helping us all get into the right frame of mind as we said goodnight and went home to prepare for Thanksgiving. Pete and I are so grateful to our wonderful staff who are keen to please our patrons and make sure each and every single one has a terrific experience at <a href="https://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>. A well-deserved day off was quite welcome to us all the day before yesterday. Re-energized, we returned to work yesterday, and today, we join our local merchants in supporting the annual <a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/us/content/small-business/shop-small/about/?linknav=us-open-shopsmall-homepage-about" target="_blank">Shop Small</a> initiative. This "fits" Frenchtown, NJ exquisitely. It's as if it was made with <a href="http://www.frenchtownnj.org/" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a> in mind. <br />
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Just take a stroll around the main streets, Race Street and Bridge Street--and continue to explore Trenton Avenue and Harrison Street--and you'll see the unique shops and galleries, each one with owners who are passionate about what they do and what they offer their customers. There are artisans carving one-of-a-kind wood accessories and furniture pieces, there are jewelers with hand-crafted items, home accessory stores that each are different and will transform your home into a completely unique environment, clothing boutiques, and much more. It just never ceases to amaze me, that I am this close to so much talent. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGBDepm8F7MMn0pAMy8Sk-VCQN0c1KdrEdrRO7yqkX2ZTOoBvz0jcGDu38v7GxcJb8FqO8MyX8Lc_vS30BM2FuePP6T3e_Zvy1Ad0dXuFMIWyEB0Cvjuhr2cdJDwy_WdKpMqp_B7ga6sU/s1600/original+photo+from+the+1800s+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGBDepm8F7MMn0pAMy8Sk-VCQN0c1KdrEdrRO7yqkX2ZTOoBvz0jcGDu38v7GxcJb8FqO8MyX8Lc_vS30BM2FuePP6T3e_Zvy1Ad0dXuFMIWyEB0Cvjuhr2cdJDwy_WdKpMqp_B7ga6sU/s200/original+photo+from+the+1800s+cropped.jpg" width="200" /></a>I am truly blessed and fortunate to be part of this diverse and creative community, and I hope that as you do your holiday shopping, you remember to visit and support these local shops. As a small "plug" for us: Why not give the gift of a great meal or an <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">overnight stay</a> to your loved ones, by purchasing a <b><span style="color: cyan; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/giftCertificate.aspx" target="_blank">gift certificate</a></span></b>. That is one gift that you can rest assured will create fond memories far into the future, because nothing can replace the wonderful experience of <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">dining</a> together, sharing a memorable conversation, and letting the time slip away as you are transported to a bygone era sitting in the historic ambiance of The National Hotel.<br />
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Historic and creative are the right words to describe our artistic community, that shares its talent at The National Hotel week in and week out. We have terrific talent from both sides of the Delaware River that perform at our establishment:<br />
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<li>weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Thursday Open Mic Night</a>; </li>
<li>bi-weekly Tuesday Trivia hosted by Russ Coen and our General Manager, Marlon Aranha; </li>
<li>weekly Saturday Night Live Music series (don't miss tonight's foot-stomping, crowd-pleasing band, <b><span style="font-size: large;">the Eastern Hellbenders</span></b>);<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/es3nM-6EmRw?list=UU01nhErUKgFXCW8n7NDlr2Q" width="560"></iframe> </li>
<li>weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Afternoon Music series</a> (and tomorrow is NOT TO BE MISSED: <span style="color: #274e13;"><b>Carol Thompson and Friends Holiday Special</b></span>);<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/oKdBCTpDjbI" width="420"></iframe> </li>
<li>monthly Saturday Night Music Themed Night, featuring Mike Pfeiffer.</li>
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Pete and I hope that you are all enjoying the start to the holiday season--and what a way to kick it off, having Thanksgiving and Hanukkah take place at the same time. For those already getting ready for Christmas, we send you our best wishes for a terrific holiday season, as we finish off the month of November today and jump right into December. We are so grateful to you for your tireless commitment to and patronage of The National Hotel. Your feedback is always so encouraging and helpful. Please continue to email us, write in our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" target="_blank">hotel guest book</a>, and fill out our restaurant cards. It is because of you that this chapter in our lives is such a joyous one, every single day filling us with a sense of accomplishment, and the feeling that we are at the right place at the right time, with the best people on this planet.</div>
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I always take this season to heart, and take the opportunity to reflect on the importance of how much my family means to me, and my extended family of friends and neighbors--each of you matter--and how grateful Pete and I are for all that you do to support us and all of the small shops around Frenchtown and our neighboring areas. The <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a> community continues to go out of its way to help the less fortunate, including one today, by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Brokaw.Photography?fref=ts" target="_blank">Bill Brokaw Photography</a>, where $20 gets you a family portrait to benefit the Frenchtown Food Bank. Get more information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/frenchtown/10152052543343147/?notif_t=group_activity" target="_blank">Frenchtown fb Group page</a>, including information on the Menorah Lighting ceremony that happened a few days ago, Yoga Loka's fundraiser, the annual Christmas Tree lighting on December 7th starting at 5 p.m., and more. The Frenchtown Fire Department will also host a special meet-Santa day on December 14th at 7:30 p.m., with goodies given away to kids. </div>
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Pete and I look forward to welcoming you to The National Hotel soon. We thank you again for your support and patronage, and wish you a wonderful weekend and holiday season. <span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.796875px;">Please do </span><a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.796875px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.796875px;"> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.796875px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.796875px;"> on our </span><a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.796875px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.796875px;">. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for this special season:</span></div>
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<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you again.</span></span></div>
The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-54930651912422115982013-10-29T11:37:00.001-04:002013-10-29T11:37:27.994-04:004th ANNIVERSARY AND HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION IN 1 WEEKEND!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We had family from Chile who visited us last week, and I had the great pleasure of welcoming them to Frenchtown, NJ. It was such a treat to be able to show them my little hidden gem of a town--from the natural beauty of the <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">Delaware River</a>, walking paths, and <a href="http://www.myscenicdrives.com/drives/new-jersey/delaware-valley" target="_blank">scenic country routes</a>, to the splendor of the <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/aroundFT.aspx" target="_blank">town's businesses</a> all ablaze with fall colors and decorations. I was inspired by the shops' variety of merchandise, but moreover, by the shop owners themselves. The owners of each unique gallery, shop, and boutique, invited us into their space with warmth and genuine interest in learning about my family. "Where did they come from?" "How long will they be in town?" "Is this their first visit to <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a>?" "Have they already been here or there?"<br />
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There truly aren't too many places where one can be made to feel so special by complete strangers. These inquiries were genuine and their interest in making sure that my relatives enjoy their visit, was authentic. This was an unplanned acknowledgement of everything I had shared with my family all these years about Frenchtown and the joy it brought us after Pete and I took ownership of <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> and became part of the community.<br />
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This coming Sunday, November 3rd, will mark <b><i>FOUR </i></b>years since we opened our doors in 2009. With no advertising, just word of mouth, we quietly opened this grand old building and our first guest wandered into The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat). With a look of true happiness, he had a drink and exclaimed, "Running across the street to vote. I'll be back." And when he came back, others had joined him...and others...and others...Today, we still enjoy the patronage of that very first guest, and so many of you. Thank you for making the last four years an absolute adventure, that allowed Pete and me to build a new life among you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQ2xqWvN-dtsSCkURBwax4AUK51sFDNKv1jy5Mhq6OWgwnfWj0f3ms0xkcwVRh-sYAs1ipryl4J6FgU991vfEnlne_ZjiQgyf0vo2ssj9Noh9ShiKcPJAxaY_lCHtTeAHNFQjSuRtqqM/s1600/483022_10151296093446348_584896249_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQ2xqWvN-dtsSCkURBwax4AUK51sFDNKv1jy5Mhq6OWgwnfWj0f3ms0xkcwVRh-sYAs1ipryl4J6FgU991vfEnlne_ZjiQgyf0vo2ssj9Noh9ShiKcPJAxaY_lCHtTeAHNFQjSuRtqqM/s320/483022_10151296093446348_584896249_n.jpg" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halloween 2012</td></tr>
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I'm particularly pleased with the way the calendar worked out this year. Our annual <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/591433790917469/" target="_blank">Halloween party</a> landed on Saturday, November 2nd. That means, we'll be celebrating our fourth anniversary that night right after midnight--costumes and all! Having booked <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Rainbow Fresh</span></a> for the Halloween party, we are all sure to be in a festive mood all night, and I cannot wait to see what our patrons will wear this year! Remember, prizes will be given out for best costumes (individual and couples). Come early for a great time hosted by our bartender extraordinaire, Donna Jane Sampler.<br />
Last year, she had a terrific mix of music that everyone enjoyed leading up to the live music performance by Rainbow Fresh. Guests ordered <span style="background-color: white;">micro brews and</span> beers on tap, as well as other drinks. I wonder what specialty shots Donna will create this year?<br />
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We'll need to keep up the good spirits on Sunday, because we'll be enjoying the first <i>Additions to the Menu</i> selections since launching our new <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank"><b>Fall Menu</b></a> last week. Thank you to all of you who have already left us feedback on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheNationalHotelNJ" target="_blank">facebook</a> page or told us in person how much you enjoyed your dining experience. We're so glad that you liked the new choices, like the Arugula & Pancetta Salad and the Lamb Shank.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Pwskwp6MirZpoNG7jO7Lp1RXgR8ALLf9Tk8YY3F9QVg4PbusnbaU_6YdwUfqjooX2OrfHo12Do5NaYxhczqn-_WWQU57GYDudl44YZqaEAzhyphenhyphen2o3U1Za5RvjGITVsY-ZGym2CdupQFk/s1600/20131025_162228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Pwskwp6MirZpoNG7jO7Lp1RXgR8ALLf9Tk8YY3F9QVg4PbusnbaU_6YdwUfqjooX2OrfHo12Do5NaYxhczqn-_WWQU57GYDudl44YZqaEAzhyphenhyphen2o3U1Za5RvjGITVsY-ZGym2CdupQFk/s320/20131025_162228.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arugula Salad (Arugula, Pancetta Crisps, Blue Cheese Crumbles, Strawberry Honey Vinaigrette) </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zmmkQyq13ii262luTeDF6ApMHhg3aAEgJvU-oA2f72e1Qb6XzIYscQNdUXyOWpt9uQo3EwfgLSJohcmEmWG5Eyr8PkUKJrGE5SE_h9QGFucB9NtWL-RK7WnXs-pzuA66zyk29VWsM_k/s1600/20131025_162950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zmmkQyq13ii262luTeDF6ApMHhg3aAEgJvU-oA2f72e1Qb6XzIYscQNdUXyOWpt9uQo3EwfgLSJohcmEmWG5Eyr8PkUKJrGE5SE_h9QGFucB9NtWL-RK7WnXs-pzuA66zyk29VWsM_k/s320/20131025_162950.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">16 oz. Lamb Shank (Slow-Roasted with Onions, Carrots, Celery, Garlic and Mediterranean Spices, Couscous with Currants and Dates) </td></tr>
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We also heard you loud and clear, and made sure to keep the favorites untouched (e.g., The National Burger, Fish and Chips, Spicy Tuna with Lotus Chips, and more). You'll have a chance to try these dishes all week, and/or choose something from our Additions to the Menu all weekend. <br />
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There's a lot planned for November, so do check our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">music pages</a> frequently for our calendar of musicians and special events. We'll keep this tradition of music at The National Hotel going throughout the upcoming months, with our weekly Thursday Open Mic Night, our Saturday Night Live Music series, our Sunday Musical Afternoons, our Bi-Weekly Tuesday Trivia (next installment: November 5th), and some special Wednesday events coming up next month and into the new year.<br />
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It's a privilege to be able to write this blog and know that the commitment we made four years ago, is part of the fabric of The National Hotel, with music and special events making it a community center of sorts, an inter-generational meeting spot, with something for everyone. I just love that!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please do <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.aspx" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for the fall:</span></div>
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Thank you.</div>
The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-68052927957944351182013-09-30T10:38:00.002-04:002013-09-30T10:38:59.128-04:00THE AIR IS CRISP, THE SUN IS BRIGHT, AND THERE'S NO BETTER TIME TO VISIT FRENCHTOWN<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtYfuT2oFg4DCmIOrNfarxg26tsSoU1zzcWjVD5QjCC2GIvAnzybm2AqoB4qkv5-ssfSIQ4-uHCbJlAyGSNSFWIp9d_lJoNwfobQOY0yg6s0r5IqwwAiQOl2NpkIzxPMc0sHtoPVvFzE/s1600/IMG-20130926-00230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtYfuT2oFg4DCmIOrNfarxg26tsSoU1zzcWjVD5QjCC2GIvAnzybm2AqoB4qkv5-ssfSIQ4-uHCbJlAyGSNSFWIp9d_lJoNwfobQOY0yg6s0r5IqwwAiQOl2NpkIzxPMc0sHtoPVvFzE/s320/IMG-20130926-00230.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVPmfsWqB0LAAxLkKTHqZBei_mwFxRFJCF02gEOWKG3uiTkcl7-DDITCsn35BjJHJEXsVFIpDp1x-jjHwdz5G_ctvYIGRZDJig9kUiFf8s6xGvUYZ_Jd_1fuSz3iYijsR2zCcEMpqMZ8/s1600/IMG-20130926-00233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVPmfsWqB0LAAxLkKTHqZBei_mwFxRFJCF02gEOWKG3uiTkcl7-DDITCsn35BjJHJEXsVFIpDp1x-jjHwdz5G_ctvYIGRZDJig9kUiFf8s6xGvUYZ_Jd_1fuSz3iYijsR2zCcEMpqMZ8/s320/IMG-20130926-00233.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Fall in Hunterdon County, NJ is an absolute joy! From the hot air balloons that fly overhead and add blazing colors to the skyline, to the beautiful colors that nature provides us wherever we look And, as we get ready to welcome in the month of October, Frenchtown itself has numerous activities that are sure to please everyone, regardless of age. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUOOh-QUODCX6y8qUwYgrA-4Iihm_Q1UkLy845BuSHCmd2BawiQFpK8kMn9Fjo3Fd6uuw9NGBc6QvFO-06Xvt5GtP91Tk54IphNz4U8JwxUbEj497RjTf5l2z3iJrwMaN72UOcfFGgxE/s1600/Frenchtown+in+October.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="88" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUOOh-QUODCX6y8qUwYgrA-4Iihm_Q1UkLy845BuSHCmd2BawiQFpK8kMn9Fjo3Fd6uuw9NGBc6QvFO-06Xvt5GtP91Tk54IphNz4U8JwxUbEj497RjTf5l2z3iJrwMaN72UOcfFGgxE/s200/Frenchtown+in+October.jpg" width="200" /> </a></div>
Every Saturday and Sunday in October, (5-6, 12-13, 19-20, and 26-27), Frenchtown will feature numerous activities and in-store offers throughout the town, sponsored by the <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/events/frenchtown-in-october/" target="_blank">Frenchtown Business and Professional Association</a> (FBPA). The town will be decorated thanks in part to the very children of the town, who are working with their local school to create some of the beautiful displays.<br />
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There's nothing better than making <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/aroundFT.aspx" target="_blank">plans to visit</a> a special part of our area, and having the sights and activities surpass one's expectations. That's what we continue to hear from our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Restaurant and Bar</a> guests, as well as our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">overnight guests</a>, who take the time to share their recent experiences at The National Hotel. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.796875px;">I had the pleasure of reading this review recently posted on </span><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g46454-d1631581-r167560983-The_National_Hotel-Frenchtown_New_Jersey.html#CHECK_RATES_CONT" style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.796875px;" target="_blank">TripAdvisor</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.796875px;"> ("A Delaware River Landmark") about The National Hotel, written by a Frenchtown resident, and it struck me that the warmth with which it is written is exactly what our Frenchtown neighbors share day in and day out, be it with other residents of the area, as well as with people visiting this lovely hamlet. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6NUMs2JM4Ur4jByhEF8sYm003BmUMTHCBH1wA6TEuwUNslC1lWotSSbHkAE9EeH1KRMSBY1k1z3hV7a7Gkxct5BKmD3jqf7fHl0NpHtTav6O-5X1ANk3PsfG50VFa85ew3BpDULnDC0/s1600/IMG-20130907-00173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6NUMs2JM4Ur4jByhEF8sYm003BmUMTHCBH1wA6TEuwUNslC1lWotSSbHkAE9EeH1KRMSBY1k1z3hV7a7Gkxct5BKmD3jqf7fHl0NpHtTav6O-5X1ANk3PsfG50VFa85ew3BpDULnDC0/s200/IMG-20130907-00173.jpg" width="200" /></a>We learn of the many beautiful activities that they have been able to experience--from renting a bicycle from the <a href="http://www.thecyclecorner.com/" target="_blank">Cycle Corner</a> and riding down the beautifully maintained <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">tow path</a> that runs parallel to the Delaware River, to seeing a polo match right across the river in <a href="http://www.tinicumpolo.org/id1.html" target="_blank">Tinicum Park</a>, PA. It's literally a 5-minute drive from The National Hotel, and it's an exhilarating experience to be able to drive in and "tailgate" a polo match! Or, you can also arrange seasonal spots under the white tents near the announcer by contacting them directly. Their last match of the season is this coming weekend, the 5th of October, and they will have a British Car Show to boot!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtd0t5bLMALY9LVhJP9gfA6j9h5lrmgdxMWejVprOqhM8_BNZNWFOSvHpQKV0niQMfLoEVEi4IYf_r_IALw7ue64pVSZPNG2eUdB23XnVmt5jUZLESlgYpXzzS3iQoMqG4R2aqo_5WoYc/s1600/Mike+Pfeiffer+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtd0t5bLMALY9LVhJP9gfA6j9h5lrmgdxMWejVprOqhM8_BNZNWFOSvHpQKV0niQMfLoEVEi4IYf_r_IALw7ue64pVSZPNG2eUdB23XnVmt5jUZLESlgYpXzzS3iQoMqG4R2aqo_5WoYc/s200/Mike+Pfeiffer+2012.jpg" width="200" /></a>That same night, The National Hotel will again host <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Mike Pfeiffer</a>, as he turns its cellar pub, The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat), into a standing-room only music venue, starting at 9:30 p.m. Each month, on the first Saturday of the month, Mike surprises our patrons with a new selection of the type of music that gets your feet moving and your cares disappear. The Rat fills up earlier, because our star bartender, Donna Jane Sampler, gets everyone in the right mood with special drinks, beers on tap, her own mix of music, and great conversation. It's one of our favorite nights of the month!<br />
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And there's a lot more music planned for October (and into November) in The Rat:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>October 12th - David Turner</li>
<li>October 19th - Ray McGeehan</li>
<li>October 26th - Mike for The Good/Frost Project</li>
<li>November 2nd - annual HALLOWEEN @THE RAT, featuring RAINBOW FRESH THE BAND</li>
</ul>
We also have music every Sunday afternoon in our main Restaurant and Bar:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>October 6th - Scott and Paige</li>
<li>October 13th - John Sonntag</li>
<li>October 20th - Dennis Mascarone</li>
<li>October 27th - Arnie Baird</li>
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Don't forget about our Bi-Weekly <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Tuesday Trivia</a> too. This terrific and engaging evening of fun was created by Frenchtown resident, Russ Coen, and with Marlon Aranha's cooperation, continues to be a night that draws new people as well as old friends. It's "on" this week, Tuesday, October 1st, 8 - 10 p.m.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5p65avueBwsn4rhMaLi3NzB8G4asWfrOi391S98_YXJNQ05Wa935WJUjbIKUj_TGGzEl5cA2C5Tm4yzPpT-YHIoN6fuuEOxrkMvLz6zjU6NugvKGkbRzTt1yMk44RIV6zlFnpLKvkaM/s1600/IMG953605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5p65avueBwsn4rhMaLi3NzB8G4asWfrOi391S98_YXJNQ05Wa935WJUjbIKUj_TGGzEl5cA2C5Tm4yzPpT-YHIoN6fuuEOxrkMvLz6zjU6NugvKGkbRzTt1yMk44RIV6zlFnpLKvkaM/s320/IMG953605.jpg" width="240" /></a>Best of all, you can count on an exceptional time whenever you visit Frenchtown. The people are friendly, the shops and galleries are exquisite and unique, and there are so many <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">activities</a> that will fulfill everyone's desires for a special time away from the daily grind. There are river activities, there's hiking (and thanks to the Hunterdon Land Trust, 313-acre <a href="http://hunterdonlandtrust.org/portfolio/horseshoe-bend-preserve/" target="_blank">Horseshoe Bend Park</a> is a quick drive from The National Hotel, and offers some of the best trails and vistas of the area), there are nature trails, there are yoga studios, pilates studios, high-end spas...it's an amazing compilation of things to do, from the micro to the macro, all in this little hidden gem of a town. We've partnered with a few of the businesses that provide some of these services, so that our overnight guests can receive special discounts for yoga sessions at <a href="http://www.yoga-loka.com/" target="_blank">Yoga Loka</a>, pilates classes at <a href="http://www.hardcorepilatesstudio.com/" target="_blank">HardCore Pilates</a>, and even spa treatments at <a href="http://www.euphoriastudio.com/" target="_blank">Euphoria Studio</a>. Our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/specials.aspx" target="_blank">concierge</a> is always ready to make arrangements for services in our rooms, or at the studios themselves.<br />
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There'll be more to share next month, but as a "sneak peak," I'll mention that we will launch our new Fall <a href="http://thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">menu</a> later in October, where we will continue to support local and sustainable farmers--we're incredibly excited about this next menu and we hope you'll agree once you try some the new items there that take advantage of the seasonal produce of the area. We'll also feature a new wine selection for our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/wineclub/" target="_blank">National Wine Club</a> members...and, mark your calendars for November 2nd, for The National Hotel's annual HALLOWEEN PARTY in The Rat!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pete and I are always talking about the beauty of the area, and moreover, the beauty of the people. How can we say thank you enough, to those who come from far-away for an overnight stay to this area, as well as to those from our very own town that continue to support our historic establishment. We are just incredibly grateful to you for all your continued support!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please do <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.html" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for the summer:</span></div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-39862355027905317392013-08-31T11:42:00.002-04:002013-08-31T11:42:23.650-04:00LABOR DAY WEEKEND TODAY AND YEARS PAST<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Leaving the rushed streets of the surrounding cities for the tranquil scenes of <a href="http://co.hunterdon.nj.us/" target="_blank">Hunterdon County, NJ</a>. I am thoroughly looking forward to this long weekend!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9NFrTOAtzBSxi8fLq4b6E4k3iU3N3lMnkyVLzmBoFe6jAwy-MiQ5XfGVDDkcvGRbPqwEZe28kB6Nbk3W6j7eZXRAuaTMScgJXHXgX125DtDF53DMYCv1fgEY0qwZFPU32_wHBL0yh7s/s1600/IMG-20130808-00094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9NFrTOAtzBSxi8fLq4b6E4k3iU3N3lMnkyVLzmBoFe6jAwy-MiQ5XfGVDDkcvGRbPqwEZe28kB6Nbk3W6j7eZXRAuaTMScgJXHXgX125DtDF53DMYCv1fgEY0qwZFPU32_wHBL0yh7s/s200/IMG-20130808-00094.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0whsKsNuZik0SUmoZfr3GqBOsImm0eo_tPK5e87zz20MExPA3pZb1-otRa_ut7m36vo9rDWH5KNU_lHLVLrntuZTsBEMcFXlVVHDAji29JRV_qqCU61WdlQtuDtXbFYI7UrG8u-8XgCs/s1600/IMG-20130807-00090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0whsKsNuZik0SUmoZfr3GqBOsImm0eo_tPK5e87zz20MExPA3pZb1-otRa_ut7m36vo9rDWH5KNU_lHLVLrntuZTsBEMcFXlVVHDAji29JRV_qqCU61WdlQtuDtXbFYI7UrG8u-8XgCs/s200/IMG-20130807-00090.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmNM_bviRQrHk3u3Uc-tj-msIvIAJxOp3nhEDezr6W_m_BZ0TnXDHotaVOM9umnYfGxzzC-hZ53BvBYLc5jqPzRZWnCZTpYwpuV_pdVLWT67U-b0GTd-aUN5STYsqE36C6DEgveBWvbA/s1600/IMG-20130609-00900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmNM_bviRQrHk3u3Uc-tj-msIvIAJxOp3nhEDezr6W_m_BZ0TnXDHotaVOM9umnYfGxzzC-hZ53BvBYLc5jqPzRZWnCZTpYwpuV_pdVLWT67U-b0GTd-aUN5STYsqE36C6DEgveBWvbA/s200/IMG-20130609-00900.jpg" width="200" /></a>It's not the end of summer yet, but somehow it just feels like it. Labor Day weekend is always bittersweet, because it's usually the last "free" weekend of the season, when many people travel, visit loved ones, spend more time outdoors, and for many parents and students, it signifies the beginning of the school year.<br />
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One thing I can always count on to buoy my spirits, is Frenchtown's annual <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/events/riverfest/" target="_blank">Riverfest</a>. Each year, it seems to get more and more organized, have greater outreach, and even more live outdoor music throughout the town. It's an all-day festival with fun for the whole family. If you're coming to town, please stop by Frenchtown's weekly Sunday <a href="http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2013/05/frenchtowns_farmers_market_to.html" target="_blank">Farmer's Market</a>. This is a terrific way to support local farmers and purveyors, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. A key element of The National Hotel's vision is to support local and sustainable farmers--you can taste these locally sourced ingredients in all our dishes, especially our weekend <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Additions to the Menu</a> that take advantage of the area's bountiful supply of farm-fresh items.<br />
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With <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a> open for nearly four years, I remember Labor Day weekend of 2009, when Pete and I, along with our General Manager, <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/RestStaff.aspx" target="_blank">Marlon Aranha</a>, were working at a feverish pace to make the renovations and repairs that would allow us to share this <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a> historic anchor business with the community. I remember the people who walked by our front porch as we painted, weeded, planted, etc.--many stopping, genuinely excited about the prospects; many sharing their own personal stories about when they first set foot in the building; and many outside visitors strolling through the town taking it all in.<br />
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One particular memory I have is talking to one such visitor to our little town, Rich Connolly, and catching my breath from the work at hand, we struck up a conversation. He had been friends with Claiborne Cary, former owner of The National Hotel in the 1970s, and sister of actress Cloris Leachman. He shared stories about the days when Claiborne owned the hotel, about the Cabaret Nights she held coming down the stairs in a long evening dress and performing alongside her friends, Valerie Harper, Mary Tyler Moore, and Merv Griffin. He posted these pictures of his friend, Claiborne, on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=107275109306747&set=o.328084846347&type=3&theater" target="_blank">facebook page</a> after Claiborne passed away in 2010. His tribute to her time at The National Hotel was incredibly moving, and I cannot thank him enough for sharing his precious memories with us:<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i>"THIS IS AN INVITE THAT I GOT FROM CLAIBORNE CARY WHEN I WAS 18 YRS OLD TO COME AND VISIT AT THE NATIONAL HOTEL IN FRENCHTOWN (OH AND BY THE WAY, YOU COULD DRINK AT 18 BACK THEN). SHE ALWAYS OPENED HER SHOW BY SAYING..." AND NOW LADIES AND GENTLEMAN, LIVE FROM THE NATIONAL HOTEL IN FRENCHTOWN, NJ, ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE SUNOCO STATION, AND 4 MILES DOWNRIVER FROM UPPER BLACK EDDY, WOULD YOU PLEASE WELCOME".....WHOEVER HER GUEST OR GUESTS MIGHT BE....CLASSIC CLAIBORNE CARY....SHE WAS A BALL OF FIRE!!!"</i></span></blockquote>
Music filled the building during those years. I promised him that our goal was to continue this tradition of music and support of the arts at The National Hotel, albeit hardly at that former scale. And these many years later, I am so glad that our commitment continues with the support, encouragement, and initiative of our Frenchtown and area neighbors. This Saturday night, we'll feature the return of a favorite duo, <br />
<b>Dennis Mascarpone and Sue Hladik</b>, part of our weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Saturday Night Live Music</a> series in The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a., The Rat).<br />
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Dennis, Sue, Pete, and I were invited a couple of years ago to <a href="http://www.wdvrfm.org/" target="_blank">WDVR's Friday Bleeker Street Cafe</a> session hosted by Chris Poh and Ed Petersen, and it was such a treat to watch them perform in the studio--and it continues to be a treat every time they perform at The National Hotel. Our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">schedule of music</a> (from weekly Thursday Open Mic Night--started by Frenchtown's own Alex Wolfson, to weekly Sunday Musical Afternoons, and special Wednesday Hump Day Music) are always posted on our website. Tuesday Trivia Night continues to have a solid following by patrons from both sides of the Delaware River--and it's truly a special night, hosted and organized completely by one of Frenchtown's favorite residents, Russ Coen, and our General Manager, Marlon Aranha.<br />
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I feel like I've come full circle this weekend, remembering all the wonderful people who helped us along the way, who continue to be a part of our lives. From friends volunteering to help us paint, help us clean, help us change the building from years of neglect to what it is now, I continue to be amazed at the absolute love and devotion that the community has for this historic establishment. Come on out this weekend and enjoy this lovely part of our country. <a href="http://thenationalhotelrestaurantbar.fbmta.com/members/ViewMailing.aspx?MailingID=17179966538&StoreCode=001&_X=9k7R4e12APIa0" target="_blank">There's a lot to do</a>, if that's what you choose, but this area is also fantastic for just enjoying nature, the outdoors, the scenic vistas of the river, and taking in "life."<br />
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Pete and I continue to be grateful and in awe of everything our area neighbors continue to give to us, from their patronage to their words of encouragement and support. Having the pleasure of growing our circle of friends to include the many out-of-town visitors who come spend a day near the Delaware River, or who make their visit an <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">overnight stay</a> in Frenchtown, is an added bonus to our involvement with The National Hotel. Thank you again.<br />
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Please continue to <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email me</a> with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.html" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for the summer:</div>
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The National Hotel, Frenchtown, NJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10845008248377084475noreply@blogger.com031 Race Street, Frenchtown, NJ 08825, USA40.5272534 -75.06051839999997815.0052189 -116.36911239999998 66.0492879 -33.751924399999979tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5664158604171446016.post-15613341536384587682013-06-30T10:54:00.000-04:002013-06-30T10:54:13.187-04:00SUMMER FUN IN FRENCHTOWN NJ<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg73BiTOalgIgStIHY1diRygGaKBu6NEa7a7UfGpujrt68EStj7dG86ABTwMEHy7S0VA9wNLerSt4lB2SkKZzoinswz71CzlZpm7Z31k4ne1wLhSjqa-Gr16QEtZghGsXnnG5OeI29VlI/s1600/DSC01839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg73BiTOalgIgStIHY1diRygGaKBu6NEa7a7UfGpujrt68EStj7dG86ABTwMEHy7S0VA9wNLerSt4lB2SkKZzoinswz71CzlZpm7Z31k4ne1wLhSjqa-Gr16QEtZghGsXnnG5OeI29VlI/s320/DSC01839.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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July is knocking at our door. These end-of-spring and start-of-summer weeks always seem to move faster and faster as the years pass. Between the re-awakening of some seasonal programs, outdoor community events, school graduations, etc., the days become a blur. Yet, with this annual transformation, I also see just how much our lives are intertwined with those of our neighbors in Frenchtown. I see first-hand how this community, filled with caring residents and devoted business people, come together to create opportune experiences for residents and visitors alike. Take for example, the newly established weekly Sunday <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/frenchtown-farmers-market-opens-sunday-june-2-from-10am-2pm/" target="_blank">Farmer's Market</a>, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. that sets up in the parking lot of Kathee's General Store. Local vendors and micro-farmers proudly display the product of their hard work, share stories of how they continue to farm in ways that are good for the environment--and even better for the consumer--educating those who stop by and encouraging support for local farmers and businesses. <div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTO_7GqTRBHoYaYl8yuNqjdWByT_mLYTAof64cjBs9_Ggn-BPeZatd87YWgzkBA-gz9gvKRLqMQfRL9nejO9_zkBkJSN2VYjsi3pfOjjJY7HJHnXyTtqh7mvgbkAf1FClYmpUZk3N1EA/s1600/IMG-20130521-00833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTO_7GqTRBHoYaYl8yuNqjdWByT_mLYTAof64cjBs9_Ggn-BPeZatd87YWgzkBA-gz9gvKRLqMQfRL9nejO9_zkBkJSN2VYjsi3pfOjjJY7HJHnXyTtqh7mvgbkAf1FClYmpUZk3N1EA/s200/IMG-20130521-00833.jpg" width="200" /></a>At <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">The National Hotel</a>, we are committed to supporting local and sustainable farmers, and have even planted our own herb garden on our property, that allows us to use the freshest ingredients, as we need them, on the spot, clearly enhancing the dining experience of our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/menu.aspx" target="_blank">Restaurant</a> guests.</div>
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Visitors to our little town continue to return to <a href="http://www.frenchtownnj.org/" target="_blank">Frenchtown</a>, be it for the unique shopping experience, or just to take in the natural beauty of this area--and they linger. Isn't that a beautiful word? <i><b>Linger</b></i>. To me it produces images of strolling down lovely streets, stopping to admire the wares of vendors, talk to the local artists that inspire everyone around them, or to walk leisurely down the <a href="http://www.dandrcanal.com/gen_info.html" target="_blank">Delaware River Tow Path</a> (a.k.a. the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park), taking in the beauty of the Delaware River that runs parallel to the path. Have you given yourself the "gift of time" to take in the natural beauty of this area?</div>
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Pete and I still enjoy going for walks down the path with our daughters and our dogs--almost the identical walk that brought us to The National Hotel and led us to receiving its keys on July 31st, four years ago.</div>
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It has all happened so fast, there's always so much going on in Frenchtown and at The National Hotel, that the honest truth is that four years have flown by. From our various weekly programs, to our special events, together with Frenchtown's own chock-a-block calendar of events, we are incredibly fortunate to be able to contribute a little bit of "us" to the great legacy of The National Hotel. Some of our upcoming highlights include:</div>
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<li>Sunday, June 30th: Frenchtown's <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/frenchtown-farmers-market-opens-sunday-june-2-from-10am-2pm/" target="_blank">Farmer's Market</a>, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Kathee's General Store parking lot area)</li>
<li>Sunday, June 30th: <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/events.aspx" target="_blank">Tiffany Blues</a> (and <b>Tea on the Rocks</b>) book signing and meet-the-author event, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. with special gifts for the first 25 guests, and tea and cookies served (The National Hotel)</li>
<li>Sunday, June 30th: <b>Tiffany Blues</b> book signing continues at Frenchtown's <a href="http://www.bookgarden.biz/" target="_blank">Book Garden</a>, 3:45 - 4:45 p.m.</li>
<li>Sunday, June 30th: <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoon</a> series featuring <b>David Turner</b>, 5 - 7 p.m. (The National Hotel Restaurant & Bar)</li>
<li>Wednesday, July 3rd: Annual <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Pre-Independence Day Celebration</a> with live music, featuring <b>Rainbow Fresh</b>, starting at 9 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)</li>
<li>Saturday, July 6th: <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Monthly Music Themed Night</a>, featuring live music by <b>Mike Pfeiffer</b>, 9:30 - 11:30 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)</li>
<li>Sunday, July 7th: <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/music.aspx" target="_blank">Sunday Musical Afternoon</a> series featuring <b>John Sonntag</b>, 5 - 7 p.m. (The National Hotel Restaurant & Bar)</li>
<li>Tuesday, July 9th: Bi-weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Tuesday Trivia</a> night, 8 - 10 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)</li>
<li>Thursday, July 11th: Weekly Thursday <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Open Mic Night</a>, starting at 9 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)</li>
<li>Saturday, July 13th: Frenchtown's 15th annual <a href="http://frenchtownnj.org/ai1ec_event/bastille-day/?instance_id=10462" target="_blank">Bastille Day</a>, featuring special in-store events, outdoor activities, and live music throughout the town, starting at 12 p.m.</li>
<li>Saturday, July 13th: Frenchtown's monthly <a href="http://frenchtownboro.com/ai1ec_event/second-saturdays-2/?instance_id=4726" target="_blank">Second Saturdays</a> featuring live outdoor music throughout the town, 4 - 8 p.m.</li>
<li>Saturday, July 13th: Weekly <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/theRathskellerOpenMikeNight.aspx" target="_blank">Saturday Night Live Music</a> series, featuring <b>Gary Reed</b>, 9 - 11 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)</li>
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We're especially excited about our annual <i>Pre-Independence Day Celebration</i>, featuring the return of <b>Rainbow Fresh</b> to The National Hotel, for a night of live music that never disappoints, starting at 9 p.m. on July 3rd. Last year's celebration helped us bring in July 4th together, with a party that just didn't want to stop:</div>
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This will be a good follow-up to last night's Tinicum Park fireworks after the annual <a href="http://www.riversidesymphonia.org/" target="_blank">Concert Under the Stars</a> to benefit the Riverside Syphonia, that brought out residents from both sides of the Delaware River, with some of the best vantage points right on the Frenchtown-Uhlerstown Bridge. What a sight!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QSpgzLKVLBa5MwFWysg_UVmYwG5QSr9RhO5sewRL620iUApByBFAO1BePgIeusW3gB82b-V7ltf1IYUl9ooaZEgWwsyDh57PL5VpuPgpAjLUI3AV9jaZWuBmGbOo27Xcc8rUqkSffkU/s936/ICON+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QSpgzLKVLBa5MwFWysg_UVmYwG5QSr9RhO5sewRL620iUApByBFAO1BePgIeusW3gB82b-V7ltf1IYUl9ooaZEgWwsyDh57PL5VpuPgpAjLUI3AV9jaZWuBmGbOo27Xcc8rUqkSffkU/s320/ICON+2013.jpg" width="281" /></a>Maybe these are some of the reasons that we received such a wonderful review by <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/news.aspx" target="_blank">ICON magazine</a>. Robert Gordon's <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/cms/images/content/inTheNews/tn_68.jpg" target="_blank">Restaurant Review</a> about the very unique menu we have crafted with international touches that reflect Pete's Indian and Portuguese heritage, and my own Chilean and Spanish background, was just wonderful. He absolutely captured the essence of our vision for our Restaurant.</div>
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The accolades keep coming...to add to this great review, we have just received TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence, a prestigious award that is presented only to select establishments, based on travelers' reviews! This award communicates to visitors and to us, truth be told, that The National Hotel's level of service and hospitality is ranked among the highest in our industry. We cannot thank our guests enough for all they continue to do to help us receive this coveted award.</div>
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Louder than any certificate, though--and in no way to diminish this truly fantastic honor--is the feedback we receive from our Restaurant & Bar patrons, and from our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/hotel.aspx" target="_blank">overnight guests</a>. Having them continue to return when they visit Frenchtown is humbling. Moreover, it is just the encouragement we need to continue to push ahead, to make improvements, to reassess procedures, and to hire the very best talent in the area. After all, our establishment thrives today, because of the dedicated staff on board, and because of our devoted patrons. Here are just 2 pages from our guest book that speak volumes through the pen and paper:</div>
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For this and for so much more, Pete and I are incredibly grateful. Thank you again!</div>
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Please continue to <a href="mailto:marie@thenationalhotelnj.com" target="_blank">email</a> me with any feedback or questions, or leave a comment on this blog. You can also reach us at 908.996.3200, or fill out our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/guestBook.html" target="_blank">guest inquiry page</a> on our <a href="http://www.thenationalhotelnj.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for the summer:</div>
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