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Franklin Cafe

278 Shawmut Ave
Boston, MA 02118-2125
Phone: (617) 350-0010
Franklin Cafe
Price:
$$
Cross Street:
Hanson Street
Hours:
Daily 5:30pm-1:30am

Editorial Review for Franklin Cafe – by Eric Grossman

The Scene
A consistently cool crowd--does the South End know any other kind?--heads to this acclaimed hipster hangout to drink and dine the night away. After finding the restaurant, which can be a bit of a challenge (it's located on quiet, residential Shawmut Avenue), most patrons face a lengthy wait for one of the dining area's nine tables--no reservations are taken. A dark, stylish bar serves up some of the city's most creative drinks, including a tangy blood orange martini. Given the tres chic atmosphere, knowledgeable waiters are surprisingly friendly.

The Food
The kitchen's ever-changing menu of inventive Modern American dishes is worth the wait, especially considering the reasonable prices. Entrees, all of which cost less than $20, include a flavorful, hefty chicken breast that's injected with lemon, thyme, garlic and white wine, and smoky ribs, slow-cooked all day using three different methods.

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.

Insider Tips

When to Go

Craving post-midnight munchies? The restaurant's full menu is served nightly until 1:30am, making it a favorite of visiting Europeans and off-duty chefs.

Know Before You Go

Look for the unmarked storefront with the martini-glass signage.

User Reviews for Franklin Cafe

Citysearch (28), Judy's Book (2 ), Trip Advisor (2 ), AOL CityGuide (2 ), All (34)

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

12/13/2007 Posted by sjdnoho

The consistent quality of this restaurant makes it a popular, but crowded choice, so arrive early or be prepared to wait. The menu is creative, fresh, and inviting. The staff are attentive, friendly and professional. It is a high quality neighborhood place, not a destination for a relaxed lingering dining experience. Crowds waiting to eat lead to not so subtle pressure to finish up and leave.

Pros: food

Cons: crowded

3 Star Rating: Average

10/08/2007 Posted by jmsresearch

This past weekend I was visiting Boston for 3 rd time, I always hear that this restaurant is pretty good, so we decided to try, we arrived at 7:00 pm, the place was pack, the host told me 30 to 45 minutes, I have a glass of Wine, very good attention by the barttender, the restaurant is very well decorate and located, like the lights and the services of the staff is class A, they really take care of the clients. After 45 minutes I asked the Host in a very nice way, how long do I have to wait, I was told that he did have not idea, at the same time partys of 4 or 6 were sitting and my friend and I just waiting for a table, I finished my wine, he finished his drink, a gentlerman that was next to me arrived and 10 minutes later his party of 8 were seated, I ask again and the Host reply to me I do not have a cristal ball, after 1 hour and 45 minutes, we left no one try to help us, I did enjoyed my wine, but the waiting list is not fear, plus if you go with a big party you will have more possibilities to have a table otherwise good luck.

Pros: nice elegant atmophera, the decoration very simple but clean

Cons: no parking, have to go in large groups to be seated

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Editor's Review

The South End's trendiest eatery provides satisfying Modern American fare to the black-clad masses.  See the full editorial review.

Insider Tips

When to Go

Craving post-midnight munchies? The restaurant's full menu is served nightly until 1:30am, making it a favorite of visiting Europeans and off-duty chefs.

More Insider Tips

Restaurant Information

Smoking

  • No

Parking

  • Street

Hours

  • Daily 5:30pm-1:30am

Dress Code

  • Casual to dressy

Payment Types

  • American Express
  • Visa
  • MasterCard
  • Travelers Check
  • Cash

Cuisines

  • American (New)

Meal Price

  • $$

Amenities

  • Hidden Find
  • Dine at the Bar
  • Late Night Dining
  • Lunch Spot
  • Bar Scene
  • Notable Wine List
  • Romantic Dining
  • Local Favorites
  • People Watching

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