The Ponte Rouge – Back during the 60’s, when Jackson Hospital expanded and the passageway over Pine Street was built, the new third floor restaurant was appropriately called the Ponte Rouge, complete with red carpet and lavish furnishings.
It was owned and operated by Jackson Hospital and Clinic and served superb food at unbelievably low prices since it was operated on a completely non-profit basis.
The clientele was an unusual combination of the general public and hospital patients in gowns, pajamas and robes.
It operated under the direction of Martha Eagerton who was director of dietary services. Florence Royal was the popular hostess, “Reuben” was the chef, Willy Calhoun was one of the best-remembered waiters and Spencer Carter was the headwaiter that most customers knew on a first-name basis.
Ah, I remember it well. As a young pianist, my nightclub career began in this formal atmosphere with the classic 6-foot grand piano and large brandy sniffer for tips. I would play special requests while patrons came and sat at the piano. Would like to think the music helped with digestion and made many a happy meal.
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