Franco's Ristorante

02/05/08

so-so, nothing that stands out but good food. husband loved it!

by luvtodineandtravel at Citysearch

We were looking forward to eating at Francos, because he happened to be in the shopping center several weeks before and thought Franco's looked very interesting. The atmosphere is nice and dark and intimate. I love the colors used. The one server actually told me they tried somewhat to make it like Sensi on Cary Street (our fav). Bread was TERRIBLE, so save your calories. Wine list was average. The caesar was bland to me, but my husband ordered a garden salad that he devoured. For the entree, I ordered my weekly filet, and my husband- the swordfish. I thought my steak was good. Was happy that it came with mashed potatoes and veggies without it being ala carte. The steak was above average, but not over the top. I enjoyed the demi glace sauce. We had to ask for a few things several times, so they felt bad and gave us a free dessert. We had cannoli which in my opinion, had too much citrus feeling, not enough cheese. But it was a nice gesture.

My husband would go back in a heartbeat, and I would go back. However, it will take some convincing, since we have a lot of other options I would like to try.

• Pros: garden salad, fish
• Cons: bread! service

12/06/05

Great experience

by millerrt at Citysearch

We recently went to Franco's and while we neglected to make a reservation, they still went out their way to seat us when the place was full. I ordered fettucini alfredo, which was excellent. My companion had a crab fettucini dish that was out of this world. The service was prompt and courteous. I will definitely go back to Franco's. It is also a ggood pplace for the family as well as on a date. Great job, Franco's!

08/21/05

Fantastic!

by tlopez99 at Citysearch

I had high hopes for Franco's after reading rave reviews in two local Richmond magazines, even if it is in a strip shopping center. I was not disappointed.

Upon making reservations, as suggested on their website, and upon being greeted at the door we were met with friendliness by the hostess. The decor was unique and definitely much trendier than I had expected from a location in a strip shopping center with a sort of dark, tuscan uniqueness.

Although our waiter left a bit to be desired, our meal was absolutely incredible. From appetizer through dessert, we were delighted with everthing ordered Simply outstanding food is all we could say! The only unfortunate part of our dining experience was our waiter's lack of enthusiasm, he didn't even offer dessert, we had to ask for it! Otherwise, really outstanding food!

• Pros: food, ambience, hostess
• Cons: waiter