bread + hummus spread
crab + corn fritters ($11)
steak frites ($20)
cioppino ($18)
VENUE // I usually place a lot of emphasis on venue and ambiance when dining out, but definitely can overlook this aspect because the food is just so darn good at Franklin Cafe. Franklin Cafe is a narrow space divided right down the middle with a full bar on the left side and ten or so booths along the right side. The atmosphere here is definitely more pub-like than cafe, with an equal number of people drinking and dining. My only knock on this place is that there is no waiting area or hostess stand so you are constantly moving around to avoid the servers walking down the restaurant and standing over other diners. Oh, and be prepared to wait!
FOOD // Great food at great prices. The hummus dip is addictive. The corn + crab fritters are meaty, lightly breaded and served with old bay seasoned sour cream. The steak is tender, juicy and marinated in port. Served with crispy fries and roquefort (blue cheese) butter, the steak frites here might be the best I've ever had. The tomato fennel broth of the cioppino is delicious and perfectly complements the fresh hake, mussels and clams.
DRINK // To be honest, my boyfriend and I came here because I wanted some hot soup to cure a prior night's hangover so we didn't do too much drinking here.
SERVICE // Minus the wait, service here is great, and the food is served quickly.
Overall, Franklin Cafe is a no frills, quintessential South End neighborhood establishment that serves great food at great prices. We will definitely be back for late night dinner and drinks.
Franklin Cafe
278 Shawmut Avenue
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