Hanging at Frank’s Corner

Franschhoek has a new kid on the block! Literally on a corner and right in the centre of main road, Frank’s Corner is a warm, contemporary restaurant that offers American cuisine – a bold, but welcome choice among some of the best restaurants in South Africa.

While no one denies the incredible cuisine of the Franschhoek valley, hankering for something simpler among a weekend of decent meals offers a pause in sensory education.

And what’s better than American cuisine after a day of wine tasting? Americans eating American cuisine; a promising sign as we entered the restaurant for the first time.

Styled like a modern barn with comfortable, padded green velvet seating down the left side and interior shutters down the right, the centre tables offer ample seating without making the restaurant stuffy.

With greenery hanging from the ceiling and a full, warmly lit centre bar with beers on tap, Frank’s Corner is personable and comfortable, without being out of place in Franschhoek.

Let’s Tuck In!

We tried the non-alcoholic lemonade and cherry lemonade. The cherry was more beer-ish than we had anticipated so we mixed them together and wow! What a combo! It’s not “the thing to do” but try it – you won’t regret it – especially on a hot Franschhoek evening.

Even though I’m gluten-intolerant, there was no way we could pass up a corn dog. Layered with ketchup, mayonnaise and sweet pickles – fluffy and tangy with the unmistakable crunch of the inner sausage, it’s an American delight and a steal at R85 (for two).

I also couldn’t resist the Buttermilk wings (R105) – another American classic. I requested the ranch sauce on the side (I’m not a big sauce person) and loved them just as they were – crunchy, juicy, spicy (they had a lashing of Scirica). This is a very satisfying combo so if you’re a light eater – it’ll be easy enough to stop here or add a veggie side dish to round it off.

For mains we tucked into a pork chop (R185). Seen so many times on Gordan Ramsay shows filmed in America we thought we’d give it a go. And a t-bone steak: where America and South Africa intercept perfectly.

The pork was juicy and quite different to what I’d expected. The cabbage added a sweet element to the dish, which would have been more balanced by the blue cheese sauce – but I had it on the side and a mustard cream.

Next time I won’t order the corn ribs – not because they weren’t good, but because I didn’t enjoy switching from fork to fingers mid way. Go with a mash or something a bit more complimentary to the dish so you can lap up the mustard cream.

The 500g T-Bone steak (R325) with chips hit the mark and ensured my fussy-eater hubby left satisfied and slept well. The BBQ had split so only oil poured out initially – be sure to stir it up before pouring for the best flavour. Overall, a great steak though.

Final Thoughts

The service was attentive without being invasive at Frank’s Corner. We loved seeing various guests engage with the new restaurant; from families with young kids, American tourists, British tourists and locals. It was an easy, relaxed dinner and one we can easily return to in the future.

Sit inside and enjoy the aircon or take a chance in the balmy evening air (it can be very hot in Franschhoek).

Official Word on Frank’s Corner

South Africa, Franschhoek, 11 March 2024; In a valley famous for its haute cuisine, starched tablecloths and multi-course tasting menus, the buzz around Franks Corner Bar and Grill has swept through the Cape Winelands town of Franschhoek like a breath of fresh air. Located slap-bang in the heart of the village, Franks is the passion project of American entrepreneur – and proud Franschhoek resident – Frank Rodriguez, who tapped into the culinary skills of his close friend, acclaimed chef Reuben Riffel, and the hospitality acumen of his business partner and co-owner of the restaurant Alex McCormack, to create a contemporary dining destination serving up a fresh and simple take on modern American cuisine.