(REVIEW) Franks Corner Bar & Grill: A Fresh Take on Franschhoek’s Dining Scene
Cape Town’s culinary landscape is ever-evolving, and sometimes a new spot emerges that feels truly special. Franks Corner Bar & Grill, the brainchild of American entrepreneur Frank Rodriguez, is one such place. Opened earlier this year in Franschhoek, it combines the culinary talents of acclaimed chef Reuben Riffel with the hospitality expertise of Alex McCormack.
Location and Vibe:
Conveniently situated on Franschhoek’s main road, Franks is easy to find and within easy reach of popular wine farms. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a charming patio and an inviting interior. Modern furnishings, plush couches, and natural lighting create a comfortable and stylish atmosphere.
Drinks and Starters:
Our experience began with a delightful beer tasting courtesy of Franks’ partners, the Franschhoek Beer Co. At a very reasonable price (R70 for six beers!), this is a perfect way to kick off an afternoon or evening. Franks also boasts a massive projection screen, ideal for catching the game with fellow sports enthusiasts.
Moving on to the food, we were thoroughly impressed by the starters. The tuna tataki, with its black pepper, honey, soy-mirin, and orange dressing, was a revelation – fresh, flavorful, and simply delicious. We also tried the highly recommended salt & pepper squid, which lived up to the hype. Perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, it might just be the best squid we’ve had in a long time. (Just be warned, the hot sauce packs a punch!)
Mains: A Mixed Bag
For the main course, we opted for the waiter’s recommendation: the seafood pasta with chili, basil, garlic, pernod, and lemon cream. While the dish had potential, it felt like something was missing. The flavors didn’t quite balance, and the creamy sauce we expected was absent. This proved to be a slight letdown. In contrast, the “Nashville” hot chicken, while not the intensely spiced version some might expect, was perfectly grilled and a great option for those seeking a healthier alternative.
Sweet Endings and Final Thoughts
No meal is complete without dessert, and Franks offers a tempting selection. We opted for the crème brulee – a classic done right – and the triple chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream. The crème brulee was the perfect finale, a beautiful combination of sweetness, crunch, and pure flavor.
If you’re looking for a break from the typical wine farm fare, Franks Corner Bar & Grill is a welcome addition to Franschhoek. The food is generally affordable, the portions are generous, and the team is exceptionally welcoming. While the “Nashville” hot chicken and a couple of dishes might need some tweaking, the overall experience is positive. For great food, quality entertainment, and a relaxed atmosphere, Franks Corner Bar & Grill is definitely worth a visit.
Location: 42 Huguenot St, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa
The menu: https://franks-corner.com/menu-franks-corner-bar-and-grill/
Website: https://franks-corner.com/
