French Fusion Dining Delight at River Pointe Inn
Rumson, New Jersey – Nestled in the heart of downtown Rumson, River Pointe Inn stands out as a beacon of elegant French-inspired dining. Owned and operated by the Rallo family, known for their renowned Italian eateries in the Garden State, this American-French bistro has quickly risen to prominence since its inception in 2013.
A Father-Son Culinary Collaboration
At the helm of this culinary gem is the dynamic duo of Victor and Jake Rallo. Jake, a mere 24 years old, had a vision of bringing French cuisine to the forefront, a departure from the family’s Italian roots. Fresh out of Cornell University’s hotel and restaurant school, Jake was initially drawn to the corporate world, only to realize his true passion lay in the bustling world of hospitality.
“I miss people. I miss restaurants. You were right. I should have come work for you,” Jake candidly admitted to his father, Victor, prompting their foray into the realm of French-inspired dining. The result? River Pointe Inn, recently recognized as one of New Jersey Monthly’s best new restaurants, a testament to their culinary prowess.
The Art of French Elegance in Suburbia
Stepping into River Pointe Inn is akin to being transported to a chic French bistro in a bustling metropolis. The ambiance exudes sophistication, with booths adorned with genuine leather banquettes, a sleek marble bar top, and ornate antique mirrors. The attention to detail is palpable, and the service is nothing short of exceptional, offering patrons a respite from the chaos of the outside world.
“We wanted to give Rumson that New York City feel in the suburbs,” Jake shared. “We wanted people to sit down, forget about all the craziness happening in the world, and feel like they’re in a French restaurant in some bustling city. And I think, based on what our guests have said, we’ve accomplished that.”
Culinary Excellence on Every Plate
While the ambiance sets the stage, it’s the culinary creations at River Pointe Inn that steal the show. Helmed by Chef Joshua Laurano, whose resume boasts a Michelin star from his time in Manhattan, the menu offers a tantalizing array of contemporary French classics with a modern twist. Jake describes Laurano’s approach as “taking French dishes and kind of breaking them down and twisting them into his own version,” a true testament to his culinary ingenuity.
A Resounding Success
Judging from the bustling dining room on any given night, it’s evident that River Pointe Inn has struck a chord with the discerning palates of Rumson locals and visitors alike. The Rallos, alongside the Diaco family, have seamlessly blended French elegance with American warmth, creating a dining experience that transcends mere sustenance.
As River Pointe Inn continues to captivate diners with its fusion of French flair and suburban charm, one thing remains clear – the Rallo family’s culinary legacy in New Jersey shows no signs of slowing down.
