Franklin Spa — Restaurant in Newport

Not a dumpster but nothing special. These 5 stars reviews are likely just people thriving on nostalgia because the place is branding itself this way, or they are regulars who have been coming here for 40 years and don't know any different. Eat here if you like eggs and if you have young children; they seem pretty kid-friendly and catered to parents with some activities to keep kids busy and items tailored for kids. Service wasn't slow, but one item was forgotten and one item was incorrect (not huge issues though). Bigger operational issues: menu was stereotypical; don't come here looking for good vegan food or creative/unique menu options. I saw a gluten-free item on the menu but I wouldn't trust it if you have Celiac Dz. Expect canned corned beef and hash, Log Cabin corn syrup rather than maple syrup, single serve plastic packaged creamer/cream cheese/butter/etc., and undercooked potatoes. Crab cakes were definitely just frozen patties reheated. Also extremely disappointed to see plastic cups being distributed for water? I'm not sure what is going on in the back but would be curious to hear the reasoning behind that. On that subject, also expect styrofoam for takeout. Price was not worth the quality, but not as expensive as other places squeezing tourist dollars; bill was $75 for 4 adults. TLDR: nothing special, just an outdated, stereotypical American breakfast/quasi-diner. I would suggest looking for something operating in a more recent decade if you want fresh food, something more nutritious, and have any concern for environmental impact of any part of the food...

This is a great choice and a place that is much needed in the area. Definately go and try it.

As stated above Newport really does need a place like this in the area and hopefully this one stays open!

Came here years ago for breakfast and it was enjoyable so I decided to stop by for lunch a couple days ago.

I thought that my desire for a classic diner was crushed when I saw the waitress closing up shop outside. She told me it was closed but to my surprise she called me back and said Rocky will cook me lunch,

This "Rocky" is the owner for 20+ years that I had the pleasure of chatting with and served by. Not sure if he is always in there cooking but my guess would be yes. Very cool guy and glad I had the opportunity. Like he said...I will definately be back.

About the place...old school classic diner with enough booths/tables and the bar. He has the correct taste in music to play. This being old school Motown and smooth R&B.

As far as what I had to eat...I gave a couplke options and he recomended the Veggie wrap that was a nice size as he said and it came with a side of homefries. Homefries were good as they should be in any diner and being fresh as he said they were instead of bagged most likely has something to do with it.

The price for a wrap, homefries, and glass of Cranberry juice was only $11.00! try finding this...

We travel to Newport every year, and have always enjoyed going to the Franklin Spa, it is small, cozy atmosphere, prices are reasonable. However last year they were closed when we were there, so we just got back today, our last day in Newport I had to go to the Franklin for breakfast. Sad to say I was so disappointed. There was one poor gal working all by herself cooking, cleaning up & serving the meals, my heart went out to her. My breakfast was cold, I left half of it, my husband's was warm to cold 21.00 + tip, it sure was a disappointment. A family of 7 came in after us sat at the counter, a work crew of 4 came in after us, all were served before us, we had a ferry to catch so our last day in Newport was a big disappointment. I hope they are able to hire some help, because if they keep up like this, they'll be out of business soon. Good luck to the Franklin Spa, sincerely hope you take this review as constructive criticism, because it use to be a gold...