The Frankies – Frank Castronovo and Frank Facinelli – opened Frankies 457 Spuntino at 457 Court Street in Brooklyn and then quickly expanded to the Lower East Side. This was a risky decision, since Clinton Street was already clogged with well-regarded restaurants like WD-50, Alias, and Clinton Street Baking Company. Guess their decision paid off; they’re already planning a third Frankies on Manhattan’s west side. After tasting their food, it’s obvious they’re on to something with their reasonably-priced spuntino (“snack” in Italian). Décor-wise, this charming restaurant features a brick South wall, a pressed tin North wall, and numerous wine shelves. The place is bathed in low light, but was surprisingly lively. Swing music, Zydeco, and seldom played legends like Townes Van Zandt and Waylon Jennings emanated from the sound system.
There was a sprawling Italian menu, plus a separate brunch menu of non-Italian dishes. We were served a complimentary plate of Sullivan Street Bakery bread with Nutella, but preferred to preserve stomach space.
To drink, we ordered a soothing pot of red chai tea that came with a tiny pitcher of cool milk and honey.
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