Photos and story by Amanda Sciandra
This weeks featured bartender is Fran Quilter at the Concord Cafe in Avalon. Fran, known by many as “Fran the man,” is somewhat of a local celebrity; he has worked at the Concord Cafe for 31 years. As a result, he knows a great many of the people who step through its doors, and they know him just as well.
“I’ve known these people forever. I’m serving second generations of visitors,” Fran said.
Fran is originally from Overbrook Hills, Pennsylvania and moved down to the shore 34 years ago. His wife’s parents had a house in Stone Harbor and his parents also had a house in South Jersey. This motivated them to move down to the shore as soon as they could make it work financially.
Fran has bartended since he was 18. His dad was a bartender, which encouraged Fran to follow in his footsteps. He got his start as a banquet bartender.
When he’s not working, Fran enjoys going to the beach, fishing, and playing with his grandkids. Fran has two daughters, one of whom is also a bartender in Northfield, New Jersey. He has three grandkids, and one more on the way which he sounded very excited about.
At 67 years old, Fran continues to enjoy working as a bartender.
“My favorite thing about this place is the people. Plus, I get to drink for free,” Fran said.
Fran’s easy-going personality makes him the perfect bartender as he is incredibly easy to talk to. He genuinely cares about his customers and takes the time to get to know them.
For his signature drink, Fran prepared a delicious margarita with absolute ease. With a perfectly salted rim and a lime garnish, Fran’s margarita is definitely worth trying.
If you stop by the Concord Cafe, make sure to say “hi” to Fran. The Concord Cafe is located at 7800 Dune Drive in Avalon. Tell them Do the Shore sent you!