Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/856465
268 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R / F A L L 2 0 1 7 And Russo gets a customized Vodka Press with ginger ale, a splash of soda, and no lemon or lime. "That's called 'clean'" Russo says. He comes in about once a week and is greeted more enthusiastically than Norm from "Cheers." The 36-year area resident, clad in a flat cap just like his por- trait, has high praise for the Rio Grill. "Tony has a PhD in hospitality," he says, his blue eyes twinkling as he reminisces about the earliest days at Rio Grill. "And this," Gahn says, motioning ceremoniously to a striking full-length image of a woman in a bikini just behind him, "is Allison. She's a financial advisor and she comes all the time with her clients for lunch, and she knows everyone here." Allison Ryan does indeed know everyone; she's been coming to Rio Grill for about 28 years, and held her 21st birthday celebration at the bar. When locals are about to be featured on the wall, they provide a photo of themselves. Ryan hadn't provided one, so a bartender friend asked if they could use one posted on her Facebook page from a recent vacation. She said yes, and the rest is Rio history. Many of her friends and clients snap a photo of themselves at the bar, with her image in the background and post it to Facebook with a caption about how much fun it is hanging out with "her" at the bar. "It's how people let me know they're in town," says Ryan, laughing. Ryan's affection for Rio Grill and its people is evident, as she names several wall-dwellers and tells stories about each. Tollner's best friend Terry, also on the wall, was instrumental in nudging Ryan toward financial (Clockwise from top left) Betty Boop showcases the wines by the glass; Dennis the Menace, created by Carmel artist Hank Ketcham, has a drink with Mr. Wilson; Gordo cartoon characters toast; and the Flintstones party with locals.