THE AIR IS CRISP, THE SUN IS BRIGHT, AND THERE'S NO BETTER TIME TO VISIT FRENCHTOWN

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.  

  

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 Frenchtown Business and Professional Association (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.

There's nothing better than making plans to visit 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 Restaurant and Bar guests, as well as our overnight guests, who take the time to share their recent experiences at The National Hotel.  I had the pleasure of reading this review recently posted on TripAdvisor ("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.  

We learn of the many beautiful activities that they have been able to experience--from renting a bicycle from the Cycle Corner and riding down the beautifully maintained tow path that runs parallel to the Delaware River, to seeing a polo match right across the river in Tinicum Park, 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!

That same night, The National Hotel will again host Mike Pfeiffer, 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!

And there's a lot more music planned for October (and into November) in The Rat:

• October 12th - David Turner
• October 19th - Ray McGeehan
• October 26th - Mike for The Good/Frost Project
• November 2nd - annual HALLOWEEN @THE RAT, featuring RAINBOW FRESH THE BAND

We also have music every Sunday afternoon in our main Restaurant and Bar:

• October 6th - Scott and Paige
• October 13th - John Sonntag
• October 20th - Dennis Mascarone
• October 27th - Arnie Baird

Don't forget about our Bi-Weekly Tuesday Trivia 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.

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 activities 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 Horseshoe Bend Park 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 Yoga Loka, pilates classes at HardCore Pilates, and even spa treatments at Euphoria Studio.  Our concierge is always ready to make arrangements for services in our rooms, or at the studios themselves.

There'll be more to share next month, but as a "sneak peak," I'll mention that we will launch our new Fall menu 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 National Wine Club members...and, mark your calendars for November 2nd, for The National Hotel's annual HALLOWEEN PARTY in The Rat!!

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!

 

Please do email 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 guest inquiry page on our website.  Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for the summer:

      

SUMMER FUN IN FRENCHTOWN NJ

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 Farmer's Market, 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.  

 

At The National Hotel, 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 Restaurant guests.

Visitors to our little town continue to return to Frenchtown, 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?  Linger.  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 Delaware River Tow Path (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?

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.

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:

• Sunday, June 30th:  Frenchtown's Farmer's Market, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Kathee's General Store parking lot area)
• Sunday, June 30th:  Tiffany Blues (and Tea on the Rocks) 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)
• Sunday, June 30th:  Tiffany Blues book signing continues at Frenchtown's Book Garden, 3:45 - 4:45 p.m.
• Sunday, June 30th:  Sunday Musical Afternoon series featuring David Turner, 5 - 7 p.m. (The National Hotel Restaurant & Bar)
• Wednesday, July 3rd:  Annual Pre-Independence Day Celebration with live music, featuring Rainbow Fresh, starting at 9 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)
• Saturday, July 6th:  Monthly Music Themed Night, featuring live music by Mike Pfeiffer, 9:30 - 11:30 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)
• Sunday, July 7th:  Sunday Musical Afternoon series featuring John Sonntag, 5 - 7 p.m. (The National Hotel Restaurant & Bar)
• Tuesday, July 9th:  Bi-weekly Tuesday Trivia night, 8 - 10 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)
• Thursday, July 11th:  Weekly Thursday Open Mic Night, starting at 9 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)
• Saturday, July 13th:  Frenchtown's 15th annual Bastille Day, featuring special in-store events, outdoor activities, and live music throughout the town, starting at 12 p.m.
• Saturday, July 13th:  Frenchtown's monthly Second Saturdays featuring live outdoor music throughout the town, 4 - 8 p.m.
• Saturday, July 13th:  Weekly Saturday Night Live Music series, featuring Gary Reed, 9 - 11 p.m. (The National Hotel's cellar pub, The Rathskeller)

We're especially excited about our annual Pre-Independence Day Celebration, featuring the return of Rainbow Fresh 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:

This will be a good follow-up to last night's Tinicum Park fireworks after the annual Concert Under the Stars 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!

Maybe these are some of the reasons that we received such a wonderful review by ICON magazine.  Robert Gordon's Restaurant Review 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.

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.

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 overnight guests.  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:

For this and for so much more, Pete and I are incredibly grateful.  Thank you again!

Please continue to email 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 guest inquiry page on our website.  Stay up-to-date with all of the activities and programs we have planned for the summer:

      

MOVING INTO THE HOLIDAY SEASON, BUT REMEMBERING THE LAST MONTH

It's December 1st already!  I know the holiday season was upon us even before we put the turkey on the table, with all the shops everywhere promoting holiday gift ideas.  For us, at The National Hotel, we spent the last month trying to catch our breath after Superstorm Sandy hit our area.  But tonight, we're in a celebratory mood, bringing  back Mike Pfeiffer, who has surprised us even further by announcing that he will perform tonight with his wife, Donna, and brother, Wex, with their own mix of great music (original songs and some classic), that will follow a performance by Rich Cashman starting at 8:30 p.m.  We've never had a night like this, so you can imagine our excitement.

To top off an already exciting music extravaganza, we have Carol Thompson and Friends performing tomorrow afternoon, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. in our Restaurant and Bar.  If you were here when she last performed, you know why she is a Grammy Award-winning musician for her work with Paul Winter on Celtic Solstice.  

Together with all of the celebrations, holiday parades in our area, and holiday events, it brings me back to the absolute humanity that I witnessed first-hand right here, in Frenchtown, NJ, following the catastrophic events that Sandy brought to our are.  There's been so much press on this though, on the wonderful humanitarian efforts by so many, that I won't repeat what has already been said so often.  The only things that I would like to highlight, actually take me from the moment that we realized just how horrible the aftermath of Sandy was to present day.  Not only have I witnessed incredible volunteer efforts by individuals, but also tremendous conviction by those affected by the storm who were left with little--and some without homes.  

Photo Credit:  Renée Kiriluk-Hill, Hunterdon Democrat

It goes without saying that even in our own backyard, we witnessed people coming together to help, right here in Frenchtown, NJ.  Even yesterday in the news, there was an article about how, while working to restore a damaged creek after Sandy, the crew helped rescue a threatened species, the reclusive wood turtle.  As it turns out, it was reported today that it was a snapping turtle after all--but how wonderful that the crew erred on the side of caution and tried to help.  Even the littlest beings matter!

And others helped rescue other animals in our area and in the more affected areas.  What impressed me the most, was the impromptu group, led by Dawn Taylor, the owner of a Frenchtown shop, Country Chic, that formed what is now known as the Frenchtown Angels, collecting clothes, food, cleaning supplies, and more, from local residents.  They've taken truck loads to Staten Island, NY and more recently, to Toms River, NJ.  The devastation that they saw inspired them to continue this effort.  And, people have continued to donate goods.  Thank you to all of these wonderful volunteers, who spent countless hours collecting donations, sorting the different goods, and then delivering them to those in need.

Photo Credit:  Rick Epstein, Hunterdon County Democrat

We were so lucky to be able to count on Dawn for organizing this, and just be able to drop off some goods, while we, at The National Hotel, took care of so many people in our area who had no electricity and came in for a little respite from the cold.  We blocked one of our hotel guest suites and kept it open for many in our area who needed a warm shower, or a warm room in which to change, or even something as simple as a flushing toilet, not to mention charging the electronic devices that are now very much a part of all of our lives.  The gratitude these local residents expressed to us is still a vivid memory.  I've been reminded of the good in people here at home, as well as while wearing my other hat working for a not-for-profit in NYC.  I have seen the remarkable hands-on work that the Visiting Nurse Service of New York (VNSNY) has done.  We had 5,000 nurses visiting their patients after the storm hit.  Someone I know personally, was unable to return to her home in the Far Rockaways, but continued to care for her patients, and put her own personal situation to the side, in order to make sure that no one went without care.  And like her, there are countless others who lost their homes and still continued to care for their patients.  Even Diane Sawyer accompanied one of our nurses climbing 17 flights of stairs to visit a home-bound patient.  

New York City saw many of those stories, because without electricity, there was no way for these individuals to climb down to pick up groceries or fill prescriptions.  Thank goodness for the great relief work of so many not-for-profits, but on a personal note, thank goodness for VNSNY--I mean that from the bottom of my heart...it's not a plug for this wonderful, nearly 120-year old not-for-profit community-based and home health care organization.  I am grateful to be associated with this organization, just as I am grateful to be part of this wonderful Hunterdon County community that is blessed with its own non-profits doing great work in our area, and individuals lifting others' spirits by visiting those who are home-bound, those who were without power for so long, and even our local churches, synagogues, and other religious institutions providing food and other goods to those who were in need.  

Frenchtown is truly a magnificent part of our country.  It encompasses all the natural beauty of the Delaware River area, the individual unique styles of artists who have flocked here, and the historic beauty and charm of a quaint and hidden country town.  Some of the individuals who are making this town so special are also the shop and gallery owners, who continue to strive to showcase hand-crafted or one-of-a-kind goods.  The town has put together quite a winter shopping experience, featuring prizes and special in-store events that truly live up to the name "Shopping Just Got Better."  Pete and I hope you'll continue to support these local merchants who put their heart and soul into everything that fills their shops.

It is our fondest wish that you will make Frenchtown, NJ one of your favorite spots to frequent.  There is truly something for everyone here, and at The National Hotel, we certainly hope to be able to welcome you to the town soon.  We hope you'll join us for dinner, drinks, come for our bi-weekly Tuesday Trivia, Open Mic Night, and/or our weekend musical programs, become a member of our monthly National Wine Club, or prolong your visit and make it an overnight trip.  For information, please continue to leave comments here, email me, visit our website, call us at 908.996.3200, or:

      

Thank you for your continued support and patronage.

JULY SHOWCASES SUMMER IN FRENCHTOWN, NJ

These days just couldn’t get any hotter…and yet, when I stand on the front porch of The National Hotel and see children running to the river or coming up from Nishisakawick Creek next to the Frenchtown Borough Park, where they’ve been enjoying a hot summer afternoon, I have to agree that we’re lucky to be right on the Delaware River, where we can cool off with a quick dip, a kayaking trip, or even enjoy a lazy summer day tubing down the river.

Even our patrons often choose to sit and enjoy a cool summer drink on the porch rather than be indoors with the air conditioner.  There’s something about that porch.  People just love being able to sit there, enjoy a great meal and drink, while they look at the people walking by, the vintage cars, the sports cars, the motorcycles, and of course, the cyclists that pass by Race Street. 

July is a really BIG month for us, and Pete and I have to thank those of you who have encouraged us for so long to take the plunge and create a monthly wine club featuring a distinctive and exclusive selection of quality wines that are affordable and varied, from around the world.  Truly, you were our inspiration.  Through these last few years that we've gotten to know each other, you have given us your feedback on what you like the best, what you’d like us to try, and what complements the intricate and delicate flavors of our dishes best.  Well, we've done it.  We've created our very own National Wine Club.

Each month, our National Wine Club members will be able to pick up one bottle of the featured wine as well as receive:

• 10% off their ENTIRE lunch, dinner, or overnight bill on the Wednesday of the month that they come to The National Hotel to pick up their purchase;
• discounted prices on additional purchases of additional bottles of wine or spirits at discounted prices;  
• exclusive members-only wine tastings;
• free tasting notes and information on the specific featured wine;
• and more.

All this, for $10 per month.  We’re so excited about this and we’re sure that those who join will be proud to serve these selections at home and share them with their closest friends and family.  If you’re interested in joining, please call Pete at 908.996.3200 or email us for more information. 

This month Frenchtown will honestly be able to provide visitors and residents alike, with numerous opportunities to enjoy the area.  There’s the 3^rd annual Gay Pride Flotilla tomorrow, that will surely be a fun way to spend the day, and you can follow this with an afternoon of shopping or strolling down our lovely Frenchtown streets, and to finish off your night, why not celebrate summer while staying cool by going downstairs to The National Hotel’s cellar pub, The Rathskeller Pub (a.k.a. The Rat), where you’ll be in for a treat, because we’ll be welcoming back Mike Pfeiffer. 

Mike has put together quite a menu of songs that are sure to be recognizable, part of our monthly Music Themed Nights series.  Donna Jane Sampler will be pouring our newest beers on tap that were installed just about a week ago in The Rat starting at 4 p.m., but also mixing her own special libations in sync with Mike’s special program, starting at 8 p.m., and Mike will perform from 9:30 p.m. onward.

Last night was a really great night downstairs in The Rat, where we met new musicians who made it up to Frenchtown, NJ to participate.  It’s always exciting to welcome our local artists who come week after week, and even more so when we have the opportunity to showcase our beautiful and historic establishment to new artists who come from outside our area.  Our weekly Thursday Open Mic Night has become an absolute “must attend” night for many of our local artists, and it’s a favorite of many who love to support them, and also enjoy a great night out.

On Sunday, we’ll feature John Sonntag who will entertain our Restaurant and Bar guests on the main floor, 5 – 7 p.m.  Even if they’re announcing storms on Sunday, we’ll be nice and dry inside while we close out the weekend together.  I can already taste some of the special dishes that our Executive Chef, Lisa Frederick, has created for our weekend Additions to the Menu.  This special menu always adds something exciting to our already extraordinary (if you don’t mind my boasting a bit) roster of distinctive dishes that range from the traditional to the exotic with flavors from around the world.  So if you’re in the mood for a fabulous meal to accompany the musical entertainment, why not enjoy a dish from our weekend Additions to the Menu, like:

• Thai Watermelon Salad (watermelon, feta, arugula leaves, mint, cilantro, radish, red onion in a finger lime vinaigrette)
• Pan-seared Halibut & Jumbo Shrimp over a coconut basmati rice with a spicy pineapple sauce and grilled scallions
• Tofu and Eggplant marinated in a spicy Thai basic sauce, over vermicelli noodles and braised bok choy, drunken noodle style
• And more!

Don’t forget to join in the fun on Tuesday by visiting The Rat, from 8 – 10 p.m., as we host another night of Tuesday Trivia, every other week.  This night was created by our very own Frenchtown resident, Russ Coen, who creates the questions and tallies results with the help of our General Manager, Marlon Aranha.  Whether you come by yourself and join a team, or come with friends and create your own team, make sure you put your thinking cap on!  And with Donna Jane Sampler behind the bar, even if you don’t wear your thinking cap, she’ll come up with one of her specialty drinks that will help your inhibitions disappear.

Courtesy of the FBPA & Icon Magazine

Well, we’re not done though…Frenchtown is putting on its best summer face on Saturday, July 14^th, celebrating Bastille Day from 12 – 6 p.m, with a "Let Them Eat Cake" theme.  It also coincides with the town’s Second Saturdays music program ( 4 - 8 p.m.), which means there will be musicians around the town performing and entertaining our local residents and visitors alike, including Tony Kovatch and Kim Sorenson, BLISS featuring Sara Dalen and Morgan Fisher, Volcanic Eruption, Amy Rivituso, and Skye Van Saun.

Stop by The National Hotel for an evening meal and then head on over to the Frenchtown Borough Park to catch an outdoor showing of the movie "Marie Antoinette" starring Kirsten Dunst.  Bring your own chair, blanket, etc., and enjoy some snacks and refreshments that will be sold by Girl Scout Troop 1308 there...and when it's over, head on over to The Rat, for some adult refreshments to close out the night.  You might even make it to the tail end of our Saturday evening's performance that will run through 11 p.m. downstairs in The Rat.

Add to this Frenchtown’s own Green Team Bring Your Own Cup film series, featuring "Bag It" on Friday, July 20th, at 7 p.m., the 3^rd Friday of every month through September.  Americans use 60,000 plastic bags every five minutes, disposable bags that are thrown away carelessly.  Where do these bags end up?  What's the human and environmental cost?  Tara Shepard, Executive Director of Sustainable Hunterdon, will lead a discussion following the film.  This is a free event that welcomes you to bring your own cup, bring treats to share, or even donations to contribute.  Sustainable Huterdon is also sponsoring a great event, www.bikehunterdon.org, that will highlight all kinds of year-round opportunities for cyclists to enjoy relaxing as well as challenging bicycle rides in our area.  Truly, only in Frenchtown, can these programs grow out of pure inspiration and determination.  Pete and I stand in awe of what our neighbors create day in and day out.

We started the month of July with a fabulous performance by RainbowFresh who helped us celebrate July 4^th a night early with a pre-Independence Day musical night.  And what a night it was!  People were dancing, moving, talking, sharing stories, and just having a great night in The Rat.  I'm editing the webclips now, so check our YouTube page to see some great future next week.  And, make sure you stay on top of all of our upcoming programs and special events by visiting our music page.

As always, please continue to email us with your feedback, leave a comment on this blog, and stay up-to-date with everything being planned, by checking our website, calling us at 908.996.3200 or: 

      

 Thank you again for your continued support and patronage.

Summer Has Started With the Temperatures Announcing "It's ON!"

Summer is officially here!  June is a hectic month--from wedding invitations, to end-of-the-school-year events, to charitable organizations' events.  And for Frenchtown, NJ, nothing less!  At The National Hotel, we're getting ready to launch our very own monthly National Wine Club, thanks to so many of you who have asked us to put together a selection of wines that you have come to enjoy during these nearly three years that we've been fortunate enough to be a part of Frenchtown.  It's so exciting for us to create something about which we are passionate, and that makes it an affordable and quality addition to one's lifestyle.  We've worked very hard to put this together and we'll be announcing the details very soon.  Email me if you too would like to be added to the list of patrons who have already expressed an interest in joining us.

If I tell you that we've been in the news all month, you'd be hard pressed to believe me, but it's a fact.  From a grassroots artists' movement (yarn bombers strike at sunset),

to an outdoor artist's mural to benefit the Frenchtown Elementary School's art and music program as a way to

"create a porthole back in time to show us the original inhabitants of our river valley, the Lenni Lenape Indians,"

to a cyclists' dream come true of beautiful and winding country roads, to a beautiful write-up about the different shops in town, Frenchtown has truly become a destination location.  Several of our town's establishments held special events that truly help to make Frenchtown a unique hamlet on the Delaware River, including Dions Hitchings Outdoor Gallery's Toyland Exhibition and The Book Garden (which hosted an appearance with author Dom Forker of Milford, NJ about Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams).  We even had great press coverage of an outdoor adventure company, Delaware River Tubing, which embodies summer FUN!!  And of course, being a part of The National Hotel in town, I can only say that I am so PROUD to be a part of this wonderful Delaware River town community.


There's even been a news article about Tama Matsuoka Wong, a financial services lawyer and a Hunterdon County resident who has found a way to harvest "weeds" and has partnered with some of the top restaurants in New York City, including Daniel, to take advantage of the robust flavors of some of the common plants that grow in our gardens that we discard and destroy daily.  Many of our local restaurants harvest their own herbs and greens (including The National Hotel), and this is yet another way that one of our local neighbors has taken a look at her surroundings and truly created a niche market for herself.  We applaud her!

Please forgive us for also patting our own backs, but we were chosen among very few establishments to receive a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 2012!  Thank you to all of you who have taken the time to select us for an overnight experience and who have written reviews and shared your stories about The National Hotel on the TripAdvisor site, which is the world's largest site, that allows travel enthusiasts to plan the perfect get-away with trusted suggestions from other travelers.  During these last few weeks, we  were also mentioned in a couple of publications, including Bergen's Good Living Magazine, as a true family destination spot (Canal-Side Charm Meets Outdoor Adventure), and we were one of just nine areas picked!  We felt equally honored to have been selected as THE place to enjoy a great meal and wonderful drinks by Mano A Vino, as well as to read about the other establishments that help make Frenchtown a hidden gem.

The town has even started a Third Friday of the Month Independent Film Series Night that premiered this month and will continue through September.  And this follows on the heels of the town's Second Saturdays Live Outdoor Music Series where musicians perform outside and entertain visitors and residents from 6 - 8 p.m. through September.  The second Saturday of the month music program is sponsored by the Frenchtown Business and Professional Association (FBPA), that will also sponsor Bastille Day on July 14th.  There will be tons of outdoor artists performing and entertaining visitors to the town, as well as numerous in-store promotions and outdoor vendors.  Every year, the town outdoes itself and we are confident that 2012 will not be any different.

The National Hotel will also be hosting some pretty spectacular events, from a special pre-Independence Day performance by Rainbow Fresh on Tuesday, July 3rd, starting at 9 p.m., followed by our very own Monthly Music Themed Night on the first Saturday of July, the 7th, featuring one of our favorite performers, Mike Pfeiffer.  Join our mailing list and we'll keep you informed of all of the upcoming events being planned this summer.

As always, please continue to email us with your feedback, leave a comment on this blog, and stay up-to-date with everything being planned, by checking our website, calling us at 908.996.3200 or: 

      

 Thank you again for your continued support and patronage.