Rolfe's Chop House

Rolfe's Chop House is a Manhattan eating establishment located at 90 Fulton Street,[1] established in 1848.[2] In February 1924 the store and basement of a Fulton Street edifice were sold to Mary Drake and her son. Following extensive improvements, the restaurant was opened as Rolfe's Chop House. Located in the Financial District,[2] Rolfe's Chop House is memorable to the history of New York City.

Earlier, the eatery was located in the Drake Building, 42 John Street.[1] Thomas C. Innd (died October 13, 1914), a member of the Irish Historical Society and a New York City native, was proprietor at the John Street location.[3]

Melville "Ernest" Fox (Feb 13, 1898 - Oct 1981) was proprietor in the mid 1930s until Rolfe's close in 1967-68. During his tenure he was known for the “Ernest Special Salads” (“Made to order at the table”), which allowed Fox to foster relationships with the restaurant's noted clientele.[4]

Among the beverages served by the restaurant, in the mid-1930s, included Sandy MacDonald scotch whiskey.[5] The New York City Guide, published by the Works Progress Administration in 1939, notes that lunch at Rolfe's Chop House cost 35 cents and dinner sold for 75 cents.[6] A menu from around 1941 shows dinner from 60 to 85 cents, cocktails, long drinks and liquors from 30 to 75 cents.[7]

References
  1. Latest Dealings In Realty Field, New York Times, February 2, 1924, pg. 20.
  2. New York Files, internet article.
  3. The Journal of the American-Irish Historical Society, October 1915, Volume 14, pg. 338.
  4. Melville “Ernest” Fox
  5. Display Ad 21-No Title, New York Times, November 30, 1935, pg. 32.
  6. New York City Guide, Volume 1, Federal Writer's Project, 1939, pg. 21.
  7. Rolfe's Chop House menu, ca. 1941

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