FROM the moment the breadbasket arrives, it’s clear that Franco’s takes its carbs seriously. Sundried tomato and rosemary rolls, focaccia, grissini, multi-seed loaf, green olive ciabatta and pan carasa are crisp, fragrant and perfectly baked. Each piece feels thoughtfully prepared, a welcoming start that hints at the care behind the rest of the menu.
Starters continue the promise. Hand-dived scallops with garden peas and n’duja are a highlight, their sweetness perfectly balanced by the gentle heat of the sausage. The dish is vibrant and precise, a refined introduction that doesn’t shy away from flavour. The wild rocket and aged Parmesan salad adds contrast with a peppery lift, its simplicity allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. These small dishes set the tone for the more substantial courses to follow, showing restraint while maintaining elegance.
Franco’s
Mains are where Franco’s truly demonstrates confidence. The baked seabass with agretti, fennel and brown shrimps is delicate and bright, with every element singing without overpowering the others. Roasted lamb cutlets with broad beans and Sardinian artichokes are tender and deeply flavoured, rich but never heavy. Each plate is thoughtfully composed, with seasonal ingredients treated with respect and a light touch, resulting in a menu that is consistently well executed and balanced.
Dessert delivers with the classic tiramisu, the texture’s creamy yet airy, the flavours layered without being sweet to the point of cloying. Paired with a glass of Recioto Classico della Valpollicella Allegrini, the meal ends on a note that is indulgent and satisfying, leaving a lingering sense of completeness.
Franco’s
Franco’s strikes the rare balance between authentic Italian warmth and a refined London sensibility. The atmosphere is understated, the service attentive, and the food polished without ever feeling overly styled. Every dish shows a respect for ingredients and technique, making it clear that thought and care go into each choice. It is the sort of restaurant that feels timeless, a place you want to return to not for novelty or trend, but because everything, from bread to dessert, is simply done right.
by Adina Ilie