I know what you’re thinking: It’s a chain, it can’t be good. But Frankie & Johnnie’s Steakhouse is no ordinary chain. Theater-goers know the name from the Broadway institution that has been serving up mouthwatering steaks since 1926. The same formula has been successfully duplicated in Hoboken, NJ, and, most recently and most happily, in Rye, NY.
The spacious eatery, with soaring ceilings, stunning stained glass windows and decorative chandeliers, fills two floors. The first is dominated by a bar and lounge, although there are several intimate booths discreetly tucked underneath the balcony. The main dining area, upstairs on a large balcony, overlooks the bar area. As you’re led upstairs, you get a nice view of the large wine cellar, which explains Frankie & Johnnie’s extensive wine list.
Frankie & Johnnie’s raw bar offers Blue Point oysters and little neck clams. The kitchen can also whip up shrimp, lobster and jumbo lump crab meat cocktails. Indeed, the restaurant’s appetizers are a seafood lover’s dream: tuna tartare, shrimp scampi and crab cakes. The lobster ravioli are served in a flavorful tomato vodka sauce that compliments the ravioli perfectly.
But let’s get to what really matters at Frankie & Johnnie’s—the steaks. The restaurant serves only USDA Prime dry-aged cuts of steaks—sirloin, T-bone and porterhouse. The meat is so good, so tender, Frankie & Johnnie’s doesn’t do anything to dress or disguise it; it is grilled as you like and brought to the table without any frou frou additions to interfere with its delicious flavor.
Not in love with steak? Blackened tuna, broiled salmon and Chilean sea bass are offered as is the grilled breast of chicken that comes with a tangy honey
Dessert? The tiramisu is a perfect combination of coffee and chocolate flavors accented by rich mascarpone cheese, while the fresh fruit served in an almond basket makes for a lighter end to a wonderful meal.
FRANKIE AND JOHNNIE’S STEAKHOUSE
77 Purchase St. Rye
(914) 925-3900
