Our Story
Franklin Spa is owned and warmly run by life and business partners Brittany and Nick. Brittany is a native Newporter and worked at the Franklin for 12 years before taking over; Nick has served our community as a Newport firefighter for 12 years. Breakfast has always been central to our lives — we met at the Franklin and had our first date over a morning meal. When the chance to purchase the Franklin Spa came in September 2023, we were thrilled to make it our own.
We hope you feel at home here. We welcome every guest as if they were family and are happy to help make your stay comfortable and memorable. Please let us know if there’s anything we can do to enhance your time at the Franklin.
A Brief History
Background
The Franklin Spa has been operating in the same storefront at the corner of Franklin Street & Spring Street in historic Newport, RI since the 1840’s.
One of the most populars trolley stops in Newport was at the corner of Spring & Franklin. Commercial Wharf sits at the bottom of Franklin Street, making the Franklin a natural spot for everyone from fisherman to the wealthy to gather for a hot meal.
What is a Spa?
The word “spa” comes from the acronym for the Latin “Salus per Aquam” meaning “health from water”. Similar to an apothecary, a spa served up drinks from a soda fountain as a cure for common ailments. Over time, these places started serving more beverages & food - which is why you see many diners with their origins in soda fountains.
Paving the Way
Each of our previous owners grew the business for nearly 30 years apiece. This commitment to the Spa is reflected in our menu, customer service, and experience. Most recently, “Rocky” Bothelo ran the Franklin Spa for 27 years. During this time, he refined the menu & made the Spa a staple for breakfast amongst locals and tourists alike. Prior to Rocky, the Franklin Spa was owned for nearly 30 years by Tish Warner.