Photo of the Day: Locals Dined for a Dollar

The Hotel Suburban on South Harrison Street in East Orange, just blocks from South Orange, once drew celebrities such as Spencer Tracy to the area. Built in the 1920s, the hotel became a hot spot when it added restaurant "Paris in the Sky" to its eleventh floor. South Orange residents went to the Hotel Suburban for a night on the town; recently this Patch editor found matchbooks and a spoon in a South Orange home bearing the restaurant's name.

The Manhattan skyline view attracted diners who could choose from entrees such as Fresh Caught Sea Trout, Roast Stuffed Long Island Duckling, and Braised Ox Tongue. A meal included appetizers, soup, entree, vegetables, "shredded lettuce," a choice of beverages and desserts. The sweets on offer included Banbury Pastry, Pineapple Boston Cream Pie, and Camembert Cheese and Crackers.

And the grand total for such a meal? According to a menu dated Sept. 26, 1941, the priciest meal -- Minute Steak -- cost $1.50.

Bon Appetit!