Nestled in the heart of Franschhoek, amidst the renowned culinary scene of the Cape Winelands, lies Franks Corner Bar and Grill, a refreshing addition that has quickly become the talk of the town. Spearheaded by American entrepreneur and proud Franschhoek resident Frank Rodriguez, in collaboration with acclaimed chef Reuben Riffel and seasoned hospitality expert Alex McCormack, Franks Corner offers a contemporary twist on modern American cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.
The journey to Franks Corner began with Rodriguez’s love for the valley, stemming from a holiday in 2006 that led to a permanent move. His dream of opening a restaurant finally materialized with the perfect location on Huguenot Street, setting the stage for a year-long renovation. The result is a welcoming space adorned with warm wooden floors, plush leather banquettes, and bespoke furnishings, exuding a genuine sense of hospitality and comfort.
Simplicity reigns supreme, with a menu devoid of elaborate tasting menus or extravagant wine pairings. Instead, guests are treated to elevated yet approachable dishes that showcase the essence of American cuisine. Chef Reuben Riffel, alongside Executive Chef Aviv Liebenberg, presents a smorgasbord of ‘New-Style American’ creations, drawing inspiration from the diverse culinary landscape of the USA.
Starters double as shareable small plates, offering a tempting array of flavours, from the classic Corn Dog with homemade ketchup to the indulgent West Coast mussels in a creamy wine sauce. For mains, the spotlight shines on prime cuts of beef, expertly grilled to perfection in the kitchen’s charcoal oven. At the same time, unconventional delights like the ‘Nashville’ Hot Chicken offer a spicy twist on Southern favourites.
What truly sets Franks Corner apart is the meticulous attention to detail evident in every aspect of the dining experience. From hand-cut, triple-cooked chips to house-made mayonnaise and pickles, each element is carefully crafted to enhance the overall flavour profile of the dish. Moreover, the menu is thoughtfully designed to complement the selection of craft beers from The Franschhoek Beer Company, which take centre stage at the bar alongside a curated wine list.
In essence, Franks Corner Bar and Grill embodies the spirit of Franschhoek—a fusion of quality ingredients, warm hospitality, and culinary innovation. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite spot or a traveller seeking a taste of authentic American fare, Franks Corner welcomes you to indulge in a dining experience like no other.
Franks Corner Bar and Grill is located at 42 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek andoffers an all-day menu from noon until 10pm daily.
