merighi's savoy inn 60th anniversary

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Its possible that 60 years ago Ernie

Merighi, Sr. and Rose Odorizzi

Merighi expected their business to last

for 60 years and beyond because they put

so much inspiration and hard work into it.

Ernie was born into an Italian immi-

grant family in Canada in 1913 and Rose

was born likewise in Vineland in 1917,

where Ernie moved as a child and where

they were married.

They had both worked hard on family

farms and then in factories, but always

had their minds on higher goals. In 1954,

with two teenage sons, borrowed money,

and proceeds from selling their home,

Ernie and Rose left their reliable but rou-

tine jobs and bought an old, unsavory

hotel and bar at the remote corner of

Landis Avenue and Union Road in what

was known as East Vineland.

The former Hotel Savoy was closest towhat we categorize as a biker bar, just

an outpost with a few rooms upstairs

located on a thoroughfare, but far from

commercial centers. It was known more

for its fights than its cuisine; more for its

rowdiness than even for its whiskey.

This didnt deter Ernie and Rose any

more than their lack of experience did.

They actually had no experience, not in

business, not in pleasing customers, not in

restauranteering.

MERIGHI FAMILY DECADES BALL

As a celebration of the longevity andtradition of an area landmark and as acharitable event typical of the Merighifamily, the first Decades Ball in aplanned series is set for Saturday,March 8, beginning at 7 p.m.

Commemorating the 60th anniver-

sary of Merighi's Savoy Inn, the dinnerbenefits Rotary Club of Vineland,YMCA of Vineland, and InspiraHospice. A memorable evening willunfold amidst the homey glamour thatis unique to the Savoy. The MelanieRice Orchestra performsa first-classgroup with a versatile repertoire.

The event is open to the public.Come celebrate with us, said

owner Tom Merighi, Jr. You don'tneed an invitation.

Tickets are $100. In case you're

coming from afar, or don't know whereMerighi's is (unlikely), the address is4940 E. Landis Avenue, Vineland. Areservation is required. Call 856-691-8051 or e-mail [email protected].

First in a planned series? Merighi,referring to the 50th anniversary gala,said he's calling it Decades becausethere will be one every 10 years, to hismind, into the distant future.

Only to mark decades, though.After the 2004 event, people told me

we have to do this every year, Merighirecalled. And I said, no, we don't.

Continued on next page

MERIGHIS SAVOY TIMELINE1954 Ernie and Rose Merighi sell

their house, leave their jobs and buy theHotel Savoy, a troubled roadhouse in thefarming community called EastVineland.

1950s and 60s The couple, withno business or food preparation trainingor experience, gradually builds a suc-cessful business around Rosie's cook-ing and Ernie's entrepreneurial acumen.

1969 Ernie, Jr. and Tom Merighibecome co-owners of the tavern and thefamily invests $300,000 in a massivebanquet hall/ballroom, the first in thearea.

1971 A lounge is added to the bararea, later named Ernie's Place for ErnieMerighi, Sr.

1983 The first of several renova-tions to the ballroom is completed.

1988 Tom Merighi, Jr. formally joinsthe business founded by his grandparentsafter working for years in all capacitiesfrom dishwasher to banquet manager.

1989 The Rose Room, named forRose Merighi, opens for smaller privateparties.

1990s Shifts in cuisine, decor, styleand timing of events, and an emphasison personalized weddings help the busi-ness respond to the needs of a changingmarketplace.

Ernie's Place is transformed into TheBistro, the current tavern and public din-ing area

2002 Savoy Gardens opens, it is anatural ceremonial photography land-scape on the restaurant grounds.

2004 An ornate charity ball marksMerighi's 50th anniversary.

2009 A majestic Grande Ballroomentrance is built.

2012 A 100 kW solar field goesonline, supplying half of the electricity tothe restaurant and ballroom, plusLuna's, a 125-seat outdoor dining spaceand courtyard opens to the public.

2014 Merighi's celebrates its 60thanniversary with the charity Decades Ball.

Sixty years and three generations later, the outpost at Landis

and Union is a place for camaraderie and celebration, an

emotional anchor for the community, where thousands have

marked their personal histories along with the Merighi family.

WRITER: MICKEY BRANDT; EDITOR: DEBORAH A. EIN

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MERIGHI FAMILY UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED


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MerighisSavoyInn60th

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They did have two things, though, that

were invaluable to the future of the tavern

and, thus, the family.

They had a work ethic, honed in facto-

ry and on farm and nourished by proud

Italian tradition, that allowed them to

work from early in the morning until late

at night, seven days a week, learning and

doing and striving, and dreaming.

And they had Rose.

She may not have met the profile or

standards of a Top Chef, in todays hard-

charging restaurant business where glam-

our and reputation often supplant simple

skill in knowing whats good for body and

soul, but she became a legend nonetheless.

Culinary excellence was instinctive in

Rosies Kitchen, as it can be only in the

arena of a grand old Italian matriarch.

Long after she was gone from the Savoy

and later, from this life, some older Savoy

guests have still been heard to say,

I wish I could have her ravioli.

Before she finally retired, her

grandson, Tom Merighi, Jr., made it

his calling to learn her recipes.

What he learned is that, while she

had some, a lot of her cooking was

described as making something

out of nothing, and just knowing

how to put it together, using freshingredients, spices, and techniques

that couldnt be exactly duplicated.

She wrote them down for me,

Merighi recalled, but I couldnt

follow them.

(There will be a Grandma Rose

station at next weeks Decades Ball

featuring some of her treasured

recipes.)

The place remained plain, not

elaborate. Simple, not fancy. But the

food was great, and the atmosphere

had become friendly, safe, and

popular.

With a well-established and

eventually thriving business,

including a 30-seat serving area, the

founders were anxious to share it with

their sons, Ernie, Jr. and Tom (Tom, Sr.

now). The boys, though, with careers,

maintained that they had other plans.

Only when their parents were on the

verge of selling, did the inn become a gen-

erational business.

Ernie and Tom expanded significantly,

both capitalizing on the proud, past tradi-

tion of the Savoy and anticipating what

they knew would be the developing,

demanding nature of food service, as it

came to be called. Mimicking the early

days of the Savoy, they expanded with a

ballroom/banquet hall, even with no

experience in such a large enterprise,

working very hard and learning by trial

and error.

They fulfilled their parents dream and

Continued on page M4

Continued from previous page

Ernie and Rose Merighi bought the Hotel Savoy in 1954 and moved in upstairs.


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carried the old bar into the 1970s and 80s.

Then, it was easier to continue the unfold-

ing family dynasty. Tom, Jr. was ready.

In 1988, he became co-owner with his

dad, and then president and operating

manager. He said there was nothing else

he ever imagined possible, nor did he

want it any other way.

I always dreamed of it, he said recently.

It was in my bones; I had done every job

here and I still love it.

What about the next evolution of the

enterprise? Tom, Jr. and his wife Leanne

have four children and each one has aworking role at the Savoy. They are Tom,

known as T.J., 18; Juliana, 17; Timothy, 13,

and Alaina, 11, who worked her first time

two months ago checking coats during the

New Years Eve party. One can draw his or

her own conclusion, I guess.

From that old rural bar, the Merighi

family has built not just an enduring edi-

fice, but an emotional anchor for the

community. Its a place where people

mark their personal histories and over the

decades, thousands have. Their birthday

parties, graduations, reunions, honor ban-

quets and, what the Savoy is so widely

known for, their weddings, have formed a

far-flung tapestry of enjoyment and

meaning.

Happy 60th from your people, who are

treasuring the Merighis of the past, laud-

ing the Merighis of the present, and antic-

ipating the Merighis of the future.

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Continued from page M6

TALKING WITH TOM, JR.

Can one go out every night with a dif-

ferent crowd, feel right at home, and

always have a great time? Tom Merighi

does.

I had asked the Savoy Inn owner whathis favorite aspect of work was and he

said, essentially, chillin with his cus-

tomers, but in his generations language.

I love talking to people, he said.

Generally, people come here when

theyre happy and I love being a part of

that.

Not unlike the garrulous, popular (and

tough) bartender at the Savoy Hotel in

the 1950s, Ernie Merighi, Toms grandfa-

ther, who started the business 60 years

ago in a small, rough-and-tumble water-

ing hole in the sticks of East Vineland.

Now, Tom gets to mingle with lounge,

dinner and banquet guests by the thou-

sands in the spacious (and safe) environs

of the inn that bears the familys proud

name and, now, innovative tradition.

He wanted it no other way when he

had the chance to go into business with

his father, Tom, Sr., in 1988 after being a

dishwasher, busboy, server, bartender, and

banquet manager. I always dreamed ofgetting into the business, Ive done every

job here and I love it, h e said. I knew I

wanted to do it since I was 12 years old.

I asked about the differences over 60

years and learned that Tom lives in a dif-

ferent universe than his forebearers.

My grandparents had no experience

at all when they opened, he said. In that

time, hard work got you by and they

learned as they went.

Now, this is one of the toughest busi-

nesses going, he continued. You have to

This old photo of the corner of East LandisAvenue and Union Road shows Hotel Savoyin the background.


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PO Box 335 1257 Harding HwyRichland, NJ 08350

856-697-2421

Fax 856-697-9288

Congratulations60thAnniversary

From the Orlandini family andall your friends at

be an expert in everything. (Economic

studies peg the failure rate of restaurants

at 80 to 90 percent.)

He noted success involves being

versed in management, finance, market-

ing, customer service, purchasing, humanresources, health regulations, food safety,

and even allergies.

Plus, you have to have a good person-

ality and know how to schmooze, he

went on. Its just the way it is.

Okay. As this litany ended, an old

friend looked into Toms walk-in-closet-

sized office to ask how he was. Im living

in tall cotton, the schmoozer replied.

Then, he revealed that he heard that

phrase from an older couple, but neversaid it before and wasnt sure exactly

what it meant. Not unlike Ernie and Rose

keeping up and improving an unfamiliar

business by listening, trying, and being

eternally optimistic.

(Ernie and Rose would have had to ask

friends about living in tall cotton

instead of using Google, but my search

told me its southern in origin and

describes wealthy landowners with boun-

tiful cotton crops. Its also the name of an


TOP: Co-founder Rose Merighi in 1991, twoyears after the opening of the Rose Room inher honor. ABOVE: The Savoy lounge as itwas around the 1970s.

888-223-GOBC (4622) Bcprocessing.com

258 N. Main Rd. Vineland, NJ 08360

888-223-GOBC (4622) Bcprocessing.com

258 N. Main Rd. Vineland, NJ 08360

Congratulations to the Merighi Family

On the cutting edge for 60 Years!


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assisted living center in L.A.)

Listening and trying has helped

Merighi change and adapt to the sea

changes in his industry that contributed

to the demise of so many fine local estab-

lishments, such as the New York Inn,

Midway Tavern, White Sparrow, and

Neptune.

He has overseen several expansions of

the banquet hall, creation of Savoy

Gardens, building of a classic grande ball-

room entrance, opening of the Rose Room

(named for Grandma Rose), installation of

a solar power field, and creation of

Lunas. Menu changes, new entertain-

ment options, developing wedding

options for todays market, and dealing

with customer demands are all part of thetorturous ballet of building and maintain-

ing the brand.

I asked for tales from the Savoyall

that liquor and schmoozing and those

uncountable events including, I imagined,

at least some unruly weddings, probably

yielded dozens of anecdotes that would

make my story both longer and more

interesting.

Niente. Maybe there was a groom or

two who didnt make it through, but no,

talking about happenings wouldnt pleasesome people and Tom wasnt going to do

it. But I do get to write a few paragraphs

that retreat from the hazards of the food

service trade and revert to the roots of the

stalwart Savoy Inn of Ernie and Rose.

Tom lived in a family home that is now

a restaurant parking lot until he was five.

Its all we knew, he said. It was the

fabric of all our lives.

The fabric encompassed Dad not being

around much because of the business. Butit also encompassed important life and

livelihood lessons.

Learning about food service and how

to get along with people was invaluable,

Tom said. And of course, we ate well.

Toms children benefit in both ways,

too. He said they have the ability to deal

with adults respectfully and that will

serve them well in whatever they end up

doing.

I asked what he thinks they will end

up doing. He was a bit tight-lipped on this

one, too, but seemed to be suppressing

excitement.

T.J. (oldest son, now in college) has

become a great server, he allowed.

The notorious old Savoy Inn had rooms

on the second floor (hence, Hotel) and

the original Merighi clan used them for

the first family homestead. Theyve been

vacant for decades. The innovators nextoptimistic try may be to renovate them for

private dining areas.

At least I can say were moving up,

he deadpanned and pushed back from his

desk to go to work as a bar back for a few

minutes.

Things are always uphill when some-

body doesnt show up. he said.

Then, he took my empty breakfast

plate and we said goodbye.

Continued on page M8

www.edcostantetire.com

480 S. Delsea Dr. Vineland

856-696-3206

Happy 60thAnniversaryto Merighis Savoy Inn

from

Your HometownFlooring ExpertsSince 1971

1309 Harding Hwy.Richland, NJ

(856) 697-3041

Congratulationsto the Merighi FamilyWishing You

Continued Successfrom

Phil and Jeanne Marie Brunozzi


Three generations of Merighi restaurateursRose Rosie Merighi, her son Tom Merighi,

and her grandson Tom Merighi, Jr.


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THE BATON

In 1969, Rose and Ernie Merighiwere selling their beloved Savoy.The new owner was scheduled tobring his deposit on Saturday. But,on an extraordinary Wednesday, afateful conclave with their sonsErnie, Jr. and Tom cemented the innas a lasting family enterprise whenall agreed the youngsters wouldtake over.

Tom Merighi, Sr., now 76, and hisbrother, who passed away in 1979,didnt initially want the restaurant.

It was a weekend business; Iwas a young man, I wanted datesand dancing, not work, Merighisaid last week from his winterhome in West Palm Beach. Aftercollege, he worked for the U.S.Department of Defense at the

Vineland Armory.I grew up in that three years,

he said. I decided that running therestaurant would be right.

But, despite the Savoys populari-ty in the community, there wasn'tenough money for three families.That led to another fateful decisionthe Merighi's built the banquet hall.

We took a chance and made ahuge investment because wethought there was a need in the

area, Merighi said. We madesome mistakes but, fortunately, itcaught on.

That expansion was essential tothe stable success the enterprisenow enjoys, even though. restauran-teering has one of the highest fail-ure rates of any business.

I worked seven days a week, 14hours a day, Merighi said. Wesimply refused to quit, it wasn't anoption, and we finally started mak-

ing money.Ernie Merighi didnt want to stay

in the business and Tom Merighibecame principal owner.

In all the years we were in business together, we never had an argumentand you know how hard that is in a family, Tom Merighi said.

As the 1980s economic challenges unfolded, Tom Jr., born at the time ofthe first generational shift, eagerly followed family tradition and began hisapprenticeship.

I put him everywhere, the senior Merighi said. He was a dishwasherfirst, then busser, waiter, bartender, cook; I wanted him to know all of it sohed be ready.

By his college graduation in 1988, he was indeed ready and assumed co-ownership as the legacy passed to its third generation.No one has to tell either father or son why a restaurant even existed for

them to own.My parents did all the hard workthey started it, the senior Merighi

said, We just carried it on.Through my few days last week with the Merighi family and their creation,

I deduced there are three reasons they are able to celebrate next week their60 years in business. Those are work, work, and work. Allowing, just maybe,for a little luck.

Tom Merighi, Sr. paused in his pattern of rapid-fire answers to my ques-tions when I insisted there must be more.

Maybe we were blessed, I dont know, he said. MB


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~ Happy 60th Anniversary ~

WILHELMROOFING COMPANY

Preventive MaintenanceOur Specialty

QUALITY SINCE 1926

INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL

CERTIFIED BONDED INSURED

(856) 691-6161 www.wilhelmroofing.com

Free Inspection & EstimatesMaterials & Workmanship Assured in Writing

We Stand Behind Our Work

TOP: Ernie and Rose Merighi at therestaurant circa 1960.MIDDLE: Tom Jr. filled every role at theSavoy Inn as he prepared himself to takethe reins.BOTTOM: On New Years Eve, the wholeMerighi family worked together for thefirst time, including their youngest, Alaina,who worked the coat room.


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MERIGHIS ROLE IN THE

COMMUNITY

Tom Merighi, Jr. has been a very active

member of the Board of Directors on the

Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA for

more than a decade, served a recent term

as president of the board, and has chaired

dozens of committees. The YMCA is hismajor charity at this time and one of the

beneficiaries of the Decades Ball.

He worked to establish the 7th Grade

Initiative Program, promoting healthy

lifestyles and positive role models to this

age group. They receive free YMCA mem-

berships to help combat childhood obesity

and sedentary lifestyles.

He is serving a five-year term as com-

missioner and treasurer for Landis

Sewerage Authority, appointed byVineland City Council and is a member of

the Buena Vista Township Economic

Development Committee and the

Cumberland County Vo-Tech School

Community Advisory Committee.

He served nine years on the Board of

Directors for the Greater Vineland

Chamber of Commerce, was on the execu-

tive committee and chaired other commit-

tees. He is on the board of the United Way

Greater Philadelphia and Southern New

Jersey in Cumberland County.

The Savoy has won Small Business of

the Year from the Chamber. Last year,

Merighi was awarded the Live United

Award by the United Way.

Merighis active memberships in, and

support of, include these business-support

and community-service groups: Italian-American Benevolent Association,

Continued from page M6

Congratulations onCelebrating 60 Years!

We Wish YouContinued Success

fromSt. Padre Pio ParishOur Lady of Pompeii

4680 Dante Ave.Vineland, NJ

St. Marys Union Rd.Vineland, NJ

856-691-7526www.pppnj.org

Congratulations to the Merighi family from

Your friends, Betty & Gary Galloway!

What You Need, When You Need It

Equipment For: Contractors HomeownersIndustry Environmental

Major Credit CardsAccepted

Delivery Available

[email protected]

rentalcountry.comGary Galloway,

President

Vineland - 856-692-7510 Cape May Court House - 609-465-7368

Egg Harbor Twp. - 609-646-6666 Sicklerville - 856-227-4242

RENTALS SERVICE SALES PARTS

Toll Free:866-692-7510

Est. 1981

Congratulationsto the Merighi

Family onYour 60th

Anniversary AndContinuedSuccess!

3600 E. Landis AveVineland, NJ

856-697-2444

Tom Merighi Sr. (left), Congressman FrankLoBiondo and Tom Merighi, Jr. at the restau-rant in 1996. PHOTO: JOE PROFETTO


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Sicilian-American Club, Vineland

Dandelion Festival committee (past chair-

man), International Game Fish

Association, New Jersey Licensed

Beverage Association, and RecreationalFishing Alliance.

Hes a member of the St. Augustine

Prep Board of Governors and was its Hall

of Fame Cultural Award recipient in 2011.

The Merighi family has supported

innumerable organizations through cash

donations and, more importantly, through

in-kind contributions through the Savoy.

The family has raised money for, amongmany others, the American Cancer

Society, Hendricks Halfway House, St.

Marys School, The Dream Foundation ,

and the Boys and Girls Club.

A decades-long tradition at the Savoy is

the complimentary hosting for Tiny TimNight each Christmas season. Volunteer

carolers assemble to warm up with snacks

and hot beverages

after a night of rais-

ing funds for med-

ical services for

needy area children.

Toms passion for

fishing and boating

is well-known and

he works ferventlyto protect the sport

and promote safe

access to oceans and

waterways for gener-

ations to come. Tom

and Leannes children adopted the hobby,

too. In fact, Juliana holds the

International Game Fish Association jun-

ior female world record for a striped bass

she caught on her dads boat in 2011; it

weighed 58.8 lbs. and measured 54 inches.

Congratulationsto the

Merighi FamilyonYour

60thAnniversary

Frank Jr. and Liz

GuaraciniFamily

Joan & Joe

Marandino

22 W. Landis Avenue

Vineland NJ 08360

856-691-0741

FAX: 856-691-4655

www.sirspeedy.com/vineland

Congratulationsto the

Merighi Familyon the

60thAnniversaryof


Merighis Savoy Inn staff in 2004.

Congratulations to

Anniversary!60thon theirSydney L. Tyson, MD, MPH

OTHER LOCATIONS: Cherry Hill (856) 482-5797

Blackwood (856) 227-6262 Hammonton (609) 567-2355

Mays Landing (609) 909-0700 Toll Free 1-800-922-1766

www.sjeyeassociates.com

856-691-8188

251 S. Lincoln Ave., Vineland, NJ 08361

SOLAR GENERATES HALF OF SAVOY ELECTRICITYShortly after Luna's opened, after two years of research and construction,

the Savoy lit up with solar power generated by a $500,000 array behind theparking lot. It has an output of 100kW from 442 panels. While his hopes forthe cost-cutting aspects of the move haven't been realized, Tom Merighi, Jr.said he was primarily motivated by environmental concerns in any case.

In 60 years, not every decision is a home run, he said. It's good we canstand a few bunts.

Construction of commercial solar fields has slowed due to changes in the

marketplace. Greater solar output by utilities has limited financial incentives tosmaller installations and government subsidies are gradually being withdrawn.

Economically, Merighi said, It was quite a disappointment, but it's just asrisky as any other part of my business. Customers want to know about thewhole process and how it works; they like it.

Technically, it's working fine. Financially it didn't work out.Environmentally, of course, it is a home run and Merighi is proud of being

able to reduce his restaurant's carbon footprint. It is also fitting that thebusiness is in Vineland, which is a pace-setting community nationally insolar power output. Officials have said that upon completion of the next gas-driven turbine, the city will be able to generate all of its power needs andwill be grid independent.

The solar field was installed by ASC Solar of Buena. Partners in creatingthe project included Capital Bank of Vineland, Lawn and Garden Landscapingof Vineland, and General Fence and Concrete of Millville. MB

2012 ribbon-cutting ceremonyfor the Savoys solar array.


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AN EXCITING DAY AT LUNASThe latest expansion of Tom Merighis vision is

Lunas Outdoor Bar and Grille, which opened in April,

2012. Its a deck dining and bar area built on the west

side of the Savoy.

I wanted to give the property an option for folks who

value a lighter, less expensive night out, Merighi said. I

predicted customers would want to be outside in fair

weatherand boy, do they!People come both long distances and around the block

to enjoy Lunas and a good part of the crowd parties there

regularly.

July 1, 2012 was a surprisingly bright day for Lunas in

the midst of frightening darkness. One of the most

destructive and fast-moving severe thunderstorm com-

plexes in North American history roared through the

Mid-Atlantic states the night before and the new word

derecho entered the lexicon.

But the groom said the wedding at Merighis Savoy Inn

had to go on.

We went into double-panic emergency mode, Tom

Merighi, Jr. said. He called on his family, his employees,

and his suppliers for a superhuman effort. With everyone

working in the dark and 90-degree heat, the receptionwas moved to the new Lunas deck. Employees called in,

not to say they couldnt come, but asking if Tom needed

more help. He used the 58 years of his familys goodwill

and community building to get all the professional help

he needed to get the entire property cleared and supply

lights and refrigeration to his restaurant with a makeshift

generation system.

I only needed enough power to keep the beer cold,

run the DJs sound, and operate a couple fans, Merighi

said. We all agreed early in the day that we could have

scowls and say it was too hot and too inconvenient, or we

could just dial it up and put it on.

They put it on. And it

worked. It seemed normalin most ways.

But it was the hardest

12 hours of my life,

Merighi said.

Best Wishes on Your60thAnniversary!

856-794-8625

517S. East Ave.

Vineland

Joseph DAmato

License# 8315

Congratulations...on Making Memories for 60 Years!

Congratulations...on Making Memories for 60 Years!

wedding receptions

corporate functions bar/bat mitvahs

www.VIPDJs.com

856.293.0475

Congratulations to the Merighi Family on their60th anniversary! Thank you for your business.

Est. 1963

Call 1-800-642-9124Vineland, New Jersey

SA L ES SER VI C E R EN T A L S

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Congratulations On Your 60th Anniversary!

Steve Heck, Owner/Operator525 Elmer Street

Vineland, NJ 08360

Phone: 856-692-7378Fax:856-691-1936

E-mail: [email protected]

Congratulations Merighis Savoy InnOn Your 60thAnniversary

Commercial Residential Auto Marine

QualityA Family TraditionSince 1960

WALTS CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY

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Congratulations to the Merighi Family OnYour 60thAnniversary Donna and Rich

OAK& BREWSTERROADS VINELANDNJ 08361-2507

856-691-9060

Lunas Outdoor Bar & Grill opened in 2012. An exterior shot from the rear parking lot isabove. Below is a peek at the lower seating area. The eaterys logo is at right.



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EVERY DAY AT LUNAS

Think summer, as hard as it may be

right now. Lunas is surrounded by green

fields and open spacesa fine environment

for laid-back enjoyment and a reflection. A

large bar area has everything from Bud

Light to Blue Point Toasted Lager to Lunas

favorite: Blue Moon. Signature drinks

include cucumber and pineapple martinis,

mojitos, blue moons, Sweet Melissas, and

the unique Luna-tic (made from vodka,limoncello, agave, blue curacao, and ginger

ale). Its hard to get your mind around this

right now, but soon you can enjoy the

house vodka infusions quickly made

famous at Lunas.

A spacious terracotta-hued space of

covered seating is adjacent and outside is

an airy al fresco patio with umbrellas

shielding the tables. Some of the deck was

made from reclaimed pickle-barrel wood,

in keeping with Merighis efforts to be asgreen as possible in his business.

The deck fare menu matches the bucol-

ic surroundings and includes ribs, seafood,

salads, and sandwiches. You can also get

gourmet flatbreads, pita with hummus,

and edamame. A recent addition is a

Mexican menu.

A Lunas favorite is New Italy Po Boy,

which is grilled sausage dressed with broc-

coli rabe, sharp provolone, and sliced


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Vineland, NJ 08360

(856) 697-1234

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PATRONS

AND PARTY-GOERSMerighi's Savoy Inn was a dissonantscene on Saturday night. On the patio ofLuna's, dozens of 20-somethings,dressed for PJs and Parkas Night,mingled and flirted in their casual fash-ion or sat with friends amid pitchers ofgood beer, free hot wings, and what was

to me blasting music, but to them wasprobably just background ambiancetheir version of Frank Sinatra. With cell-phones prominent, lest someone missthe latest tweet, they partied on oblivi-ous to the 40-degree temperature andthe staid ensemble gathered in the shel-ter of the indoor Bistro.

There, I don't know, 50-60-some-thing-or-others listened to the realChairman of the Board, dressed to thenines (or at least the eights as HansLampert put it), dined on oysters andfine pastathe regulars, the oft lifetimefriends, La Famiglia. All of it is part ofthe 60 years of sacrifice, survival, andsuccess that is the Savoy.

The din and distraction of the deckdidn't foster my doing interviews. In thedining room, though, patrons werehappy to share their feelings on theSavoy experience and the Merighi family,both dear to them.

Robert Odorizzi, nephew of co-founder

Rose Merighi:I've been here since I was abouteight years old. My dad, Albert (Rose'syoungest brother), was a plumber whohelped them every weekend and Itagged along. I was a kid but I wasworking like an adultthere was nosuch thing as child labor then. OnSunday night, old Ernie would put afive-dollar bill in my hand. Wow.

My aunt and uncle worked 18- to 20-hour days, sometimes going upstairs torest briefly and then coming down

again. They turned aroadhouse into ashowplace.

Enrico Collini, lifetime friend of theMerighis, whose father Enrico workedwith co-founder Ernie in the blow shopat Kimbles before the restaurantopened. He's with his wife, Cathy, whotaught all of Tom Jr.s children at St.Mary's School.

Everybody comes here because it'swarm here, this is family. And TommyTommy tries to keep up with what theyoung people are doing, he touches allthe bases to make sure all generationsare welcome. Hes on top of everythingand he has a great staff, people he canentrust things to. That's the key to hav-ing a good business.

That, and the way he appreciates hisfriends, thats why this place has lastedand will last.

Hans Lampert, related to no one and

not a native, but a gourmet and bonvivant right at home in the MerighiBistro. Also, he's with fiance, LoriDiMatteo-Fiocchi, who as a child often

played at Merighi's while her mother,Alice, worked in the banquet hall.They've driven the three older Merighichildren home from work many times.

Alaina will be the last, when she's oldenough to have a shift:

Tommy keeps the place current andrelevant to the times. He's personallyinvolved in the staging of everything and

each event is as important to him asany other. We come here every Saturdaynight, often Thursday, too. This isCheers where everybody knows yourname. We've never been alone at ourtable for the eveningthere's alwayssomebody coming by, often many.

Lori:Good times, it's good timeshere. What can you say? I love it.

Robert Dragotta, who, like many oth-ers, is not a regular, but comes toMerighi's whenever he can. He lives inBridgeton and Manhattan and joinedHans and Lori for this evening:

I know no matter when I come, it'sgoing to be a good meal; even at cater-ing events, you know it'll be good.Consistent and delicious, thats what it isand I appreciate it.

All the while, Tom is circulating.When have you not seen Tom at anyevent he holds? He always will be rightback, is in the Rose Room, or wantsto talk to you, He is frenetic in move-ment, speech, even smile. You have theimpression he's always thinking andwalking ahead of you but at the sametime he's tuned in, giving your concernshis attention and incorporating yourenjoyment into his own fun. You areSavoy. He is Savoy. Savoy is him.

MB

Star sighting at SavoyBistro (their GPS

thought the AcademyAwards were at Unionand Landis), from left:

Robert Dragotta,Lori DiMatteo-Fiocchi,

and Hans Lampert.PHOTO: MICKEY

BRANDT


12/12

A BUSY PLACE: SOMEUPCOMING EVENTSAll atMerighi's Savoy Inn, E. Landis Ave.and Union Rd., Vineland, 691-8051.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Laughing with the Locals Comedy Show.7 p.m. Hosted by Mike KC. Co-headliners:Mike Eagan and Eric Potts. Cash bar and

snack menu. Must be 21 or over. Tickets $20.

SATURDAY, MARCH 8

The Merighi Family Decades Ball.7 p.m. Commemorating the 60th Anniversaryof Merighis Savoy Inn. Dinner, dancing,and cocktails.$100 per person.Proceedsbenefit The Rotary Club of Vineland,

YMCA of Vineland, and Inspira Hospice.

FRIDAY, MARCH 14

6th Annual Hometown Heroes Gala.

6 p.m. Join The Grapevine in celebratingthis years 25 honorees.DJ/Dancing Buffet Dinner Cash Bar SilentAuction 50/50 Raffle.Proceeds go to theRotary Club ofVineland CharitiesFoundation andThe CumberlandCape AtlanticYMCA. Tickets are$70 each, $130 percouple, seating of nine

and 10 per table available. Tickets can bepurchased at The Grapevine officeacross the parking lot from Larrys IIRestaurant & Caf, 907 N. Main Road inVineland or by calling 856-457-7815.

SATURDAY, MARCH 22

Greater Vineland Chamber of

Commerce 41st Annual DandelionDinner and Beer Tasting.A community celebration announcing thebeginning of our agricultural season withan eveniung of dinner and dancing. Musicby Bob Morgan Entertainment. Ticketprice includes craft brew tasting in your

own take-home commemorativepilsner draft. Advertisements

available in program book.Tickets are $50 in

advance and are limitedso reserve early. Call theChamber office at 856-

691-7400 or visitwww.vinelandchamber.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 23

Start a New Tradition Bridal Show.13 p.m. Merighis Savoy Inn presents aRock the Aisle Bridal production. Pre-reg-ister online at www.rocktheaislebridal.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 5Night of Comedy. 7 p.m. Vineland HighSchool Tennis Team fundraiser, hostedby local favorite Gino Bisconte with Louis"Twitchels" Centanni and starringReverend Bob Levy as the headliner.Adults-only event. You must be 21 orolder to attend. Tickets $25. Cash barand snack menu available. Tickets avail-able from any tennis team member orcoach. Funds raised from this event willbe used for team apparel and to pay fora trip to the U.S. Open.

{M1

2}

MerighisSavoyInn60th|

FEBRUARY

26,

2014

Thank you forproviding

60 years ofoutstanding food

and service to the

South Jerseyarea andcongratulations

from your friendsat Mainieros!

Congratulations to the Congratulations to the

Merighi Familyfor 60 years of

Great food, friendshipand community service

2439 N Delsea Drive, Vineland

8566911164

www.donderojewelry.com

tomatoes on a semolina baguette. Another

is fire-roasted wings, based on a recipe

created by Merighis grandmother, Rose,

co-founder of the tavern 60 years ago. Last

year, some Key West-influenced dishes

debuted and this summers plans include

adding a Mexican flair.

There are large screen TVs, an official

cornhole game and live music every

Friday and Saturday beginning in May.

True to tradition, family membershelped in the design and execution of this

new venture: Merighis mother, Jackie, as

a designer and his sister, Danielle, as a

food consultant.

The patio addition provided 18 new

jobs. It opens for one night in February for

PJs and Parkas, and opens for the season

the third week in April.

Lunas opens for real the third week in

April.

People are really ready for it after thisseason of weather, said Merighi.I

Happy 60th Anniversary toTom and the

Merighi Family!

P.O. Box 1121 Vineland, N.J. 08362


PHOTO: AMANDA ERRICKSONDESIGNS

merighi's savoy inn 60th anniversary

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