Franco's Ristorante

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. \r 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.\r Pros: garden salad, fish Cons: bread! service more

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! more

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 more

what can u expect from a place located next to a supermarket and dry cleaning place? i would say not much. well, Franco's is a nice surprise that charm u with very good food, prompt service and delightful atmosphere. Would love to come back there again more

My favorite restaurant in Richmond. I now live in Charleston, SC but we still talk about Franco's tiramisu- the best I have ever had!! I have even been to Italy and not found tiramisu as good as Franco's. Excellent- can't wait to get back!! Pros: worth the money, good parking more

We had a great experience!! I had the penne alla vodka - which I heard was a popular item and now I know why!! I would recommend this restaurant to everyone. more

Worst Italian food I've ever had- maybe that's because it tasted like the stuff you buy out of the box at the grocery store. Service was good, the atmosphere was fine, but all in all a forgettable experience. more

before the old man left town. Not it's just an overpriced, fancy restaurant with VERY mediocre food on a good day. more

good food, nice atmosphere, hospitality is great. Overall value is great. Large parties are perfect there. more

Wonderful place to get away and be intimate with your signficant other. Delicious food and drink takes you away to Italy where you have no cares. Just relax and get away! Pros: romantic, delicious, great wine selection Cons: parking more

The food is not bad - it just caters to Richmond tastes I think... Not adventurous. more

Having eaten northern Italian food all my life, I can verify the authenticity of the food. The food is prepared perfectly and is presented in a very appealing manner. The waitstaff is knowledgeable and courteous and very accessible. The general manager, Gary, is very concerned about the diner's opinion and makes the rounds of tables to confirm that all is well. Overall, it is the only restaurant in Richmond I have ever recommended to friends. I have had my son's wedding rehearsal dinner there, as well as several parties; and everyone who atteneded raved about the food. more

Very, very enjoyable and delicious food. Everyone was very pleasant which made the entire evening fun. more