I'll Meet You at Franky & Johnny's Place

• Review
• Thursday, February 07, 2008

Nestled in a residential neighborhood near the corner of Tchoup, you can’t really get more local than this rickety old house with the creaky floors and the vinyl red checkered tablecloths.  The “Miller High Life” sign hangs larger and higher than the plain letters reading “Franky & Johnny’s,” one of the only indications that signal its existence, other than the gravel lot full of cars and rich smells emanating from the back.

No exception to the general rule, a bar is the first thing a traveller sees when they step into the restaurant, but the food is the real attraction.  Featuring Cajun-inspired, richly-seasoned food, it’s hard to make a decision from their simple-seeming menu. The Cajun country influence can sampled in the  boudouin balls, delectable fried balls of rice and pork, and offerings like alligator soup and crawfish pie.  The onion rings have a subtle kick, and the portion is almost enough for a meal.  

Moving past appetizers, one of the best things one can do is treat themselves to a fried shrimp po’ boy.  The crusty bread can barely contain the piles of cleaned, fresh batter-fried shrimp that spills out  onto the plate  Do yourself an even better favor and order it fully dressed.  The roast beef comes steaming hot, swimming in gravy, and the platters are sizeable and allow you to try their crispy fries or potato salad.  Cold sandwiches are also available, and the famous New Orleans muffuletta makes an appearance on the menu as well.  Their crawfish, when in season, is not to be missed, and is their pride and joy, along with the homemade bread pudding.

For once, you wallet can be nearly as empty as your stomach, too.  The prices are as neighborhood as the spot, and the portion sizes can’t be beat.  Don’t expect service to be anything close to white glove, but come hungry and you’ll be as satisfied as if you just left your Southern grandma’s kitchen.