Our Past Is Present August 14, 2017

August 14, 2017

            This is “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.

 At the turn of the 20^th Century, William Frey was a well-known and enterprising owner of Frey’s Restaurant located at 607 N. Washington Street.  Later it was the Good Eats Café and several other restaurants.  It is now the home of Bella’s Italian Restaurant.  This address is also identified as the Rialto Building.

A souvenir booklet published in 1910 titled “Junction City Past and Present” described Frey’s Restaurant as having seen many changes and additions over time.  Mr. Frey moved into the location of 607 N. Washington Street in 1905.  It was here that the most modern facilities and arrangement of artistic as well as expensive fixtures had created a great deal of interest.  Courteous waiters attended the customers who dined at the restaurant, the lunch counter and the soda fountain. Twelve to 18 employees were required at all times to take care of customers.  Each customer received individual attention and their wishes were catered to with courtesy whether the customers were local people or those visiting. 

            A number of rooms were also available for rent. Regular meals were served as well as short orders of anything customers requested. There was a complete line of imported and domestic cigars, smoker’s supplies and tobacco.

Stop by 607 N. Washington Street and spend some time not only dining, but imagining what that restaurant would have been like in the early 20^th century.  Before you enter the restaurant look up at the top of the building and see the word “Rialto” carved into the limestone.