restaurant rec

Dear Foodie Friends;

I just had to tell you all about a truly outstanding meal. Even though Francesco's opened its doors in 2002, this was the first time I had ever heard about it. No surprise, since it's rare when most of us venture out of the 33139, specially for a neighborhood restaurant without the celebrity chef or fine decor and chic ambiance that our palates have been lulled by. But my dear friends, if your palates need a wake up call then you must visit Francesco.

Late on a Tuesday evening I walked in to a packed house at this quaint and tiny Coral Gables restaurant while a viola player who would have been cheesy in any other setting, set a mellow and warm mood with Andean classics. Though Francesco's is not fancy by any means, they have a well managed restaurant with excellent service and a fantastic menu of traditional Peruvian fare with a touch of haute cuisine. Though there is something in the menu for everyone, your choices will be limited unless you are a true seafood lover.

We decided to start our dinner with Francesco's signature Corvina (chilean sea bass) Ceviche served in a trio of sauces, and garnished with onions, Choclo, and Peruvian yams to balance your palate. My favorite was by far the Ceviche in the spicy yellow pepper sauce. Don't expect your ceviche to be rare, as you have come to expect in cross-over fare. This is traditionally made, marinated in lime just long enough for it to develop a little texture. Another great treat was the Papas a la Huacaina appetizer, made with tiny yellow Peruvian potatos in a yellow pepper and goat cheese sauce. To say they melt in your mouth would not go far enough, they are much creamier than the best made gnocci. For me the coup was my entree, a perfectly light and creamy artichoke rissotto with seared scallops seasoned to perfection.

Not surprisingly, Francesco's has received top Zagat ratings nearly every year since it opened its doors. I would say that Francesco's is best for small groups, and definitely a great dinner date spot. It's not trendy or chic, but it is warm, charming, and very conducive to enjoying conversation over a great meal. You should definitely try it some time soon - it's worth the drive, and I am sure you won't be disappointed.

Cheers to all;

Catherine Roman