Bloomfield Bridge Tavern Farewell
A real Pittsburgh experience. Bittersweet evening. After three decades of successful business, a favorite institution was closing and we were there for the final night. Gracious owners and hosts Steve and Lynn Frankowsi ensured we felt like adopted family.
SATURDAY night we drove over to Bloomfield, We got there early as by the end of the evening it was standing room only. We ate a Polish Platter, sipped some drafts and listened to some lively music by Ploughman’s Lunch.
We purchased our souvenir BBT t- shirts to commemorate the evening.
I took photos to document the farewell party to Bloomfield Bridge Tavern.
Our hosts Steve and Lynn Frankowski
On the left, Mr. Stanley Frankowski, original owner of the Bloomfield Tavern . John Hayes wrote in Mr. Frankowski’s obituary “Mr. Frankowski had a soft spot for struggling artists, and the tavern became and continues to be an important entry-level venue for local rock bands. Many of Pittsburgh most popular bands, including Rusted Root and The Clarks, played at the tavern in their infancy. Years before musical concept artists Squonk Opera took their show to the Broadway stage, they took it to the Bloomfield Bridge Tavern.”
Since 2005, John Hayes has organized and emceed every Tuesday Open Stage Night helping many young singers and songwriters get started on their musical careers.
Drummer Dennis Childers and the band Ploughman’s Lunch.
Karl Mullen Frontman of Ploughman’s Lunch and John Hayes
First date at BBT over twenty years and two kids later. Meet Cynthia and Michael O’Shea.
Performance Artist Phat Man Dee has some wild light up shoes from Amazon. They kept changing colors and oh say can you see, she sang a crowd pleasing number with the band.
Sister-in-law Mary Jane wore the Bloomfield Bridge Tavern party Underwear to her Father-in-law’s funeral twelve years ago. She held it to the light for me to take a photo.
On thing is certain. This popular local treasure and venue is going to be missed.
Lovely tribute. They don’t make too many places like that anymore.
Wow! Looked like a fun, but sad, evening.
Amazing place and story!
Great post Ruth. 🙂
Last evening we passed the restaurant. I thought it was unusual that it looked vacant especially on a Steeler Sunday. I wondered and now I know. Thanks for the update. I remember this statement written somewhere on the building: “The Only Polish Restaurant in Little Italy.” Somebody has a great sense of humor. Makes me smile even today.
Oh Ruth, what a beautiful tribute and great photos! Love the light-up shoes! I just learned today that another Pittsburgh institution is closing soon: James Street [Tavern] on the North Side. It’s been a popular Jazz hang-out for decades! YOu’ve probably been there!
So sad. Why is the place closing after so many years? 🙁