
Since 2013, the Rallo family has been known in New Jersey for its fabulous Italian restaurants (See NJM faves Undici Taverna Rustica in Rumson and Birravino in Red Bank). But French food?
That’s what Jake Rallo, at only 24 years old, brought to the table when he convinced his dad, Victor, to help him open an American-French bistro in Rumson. And that’s how River Pointe Inn—just named one of New Jersey Monthly‘s best new restaurants—was born.

Owner Victor Rallo and his son, Jake, managing partner of River Pointe Inn. Photo: James J. Connolly
Just out of hotel/restaurant school at Cornell University, Jake first thought he wanted to try his hand at working in the business world, but soon realized what he was missing. “I called my dad and I said, ‘Okay, I miss people. I miss restaurants. You were right. I should have come work for you.’ And I moved back to New Jersey, and I started working for him,” says Jake.

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Now they own and run this stunning new restaurant in downtown Rumson alongside the Diaco family. The concept of River Pointe is oysters, cocktails and contemporary classics. There are booths with genuine leather banquettes, a marble bar top, and antique mirrors. The service is exceptional, and the attention to detail remarkable.
“We wanted to give Rumson that New York City feel in the suburbs,” Jake says. “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.”
It’s the food that keeps people coming back, and the cuisine here is first-rate. Chef Joshua Laurano had a Michelin star when he worked in Manhattan, and it shows. Many of the dishes are spins on classics. “He’s taking French dishes and kind of breaking them down and twisting them into his own version,” says Jake.
Judging from the packed dining room on a recent weeknight, the Rallos are more than succeeding with their new venture.
[RELATED: Proud Jersey Native Eli Rallo Is One of NJ’s Top Influencers]
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