Welcome to Franklin Cafe
At Franklin Cafe, nestled in Boston's vibrant South End, culinary passion meets a warm, inviting atmosphere. This New American lounge boasts a menu that artfully combines comfort with sophistication, featuring dishes like Wild Mushroom Duxelle Ravioli and Slow Braised Lamb Shank. The focus on late-night service ensures that diners can indulge their cravings whenever inspiration strikes, while craft cocktails elevate the experience. Customers rave about the relaxed vibe, where conversation flourishes and connections deepen—a true neighborhood gem. With its late-night kitchen and robust menu, Franklin Cafe invites guests to savor life, one exceptional bite and sip at a time.
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278 Shawmut Ave, Boston, MA 02118 Hotline: (617) 350-0010
Welcome to Franklin Cafe, a hidden gem nestled in the vibrant heart of Boston's South End at 278 Shawmut Ave. This establishment seamlessly blends the relaxed vibe of a lounge with the culinary finesse of a New American restaurant and the lively spirit of a cocktail bar. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind with friends or savor a delightful meal, Franklin Cafe is your ideal destination.
As you step through its unassuming entrance, you are greeted by a warm ambiance where conversation flows as easily as the well-crafted cocktails. With a late-night kitchen serving up an impressive array of dishes, Franklin Cafe caters to both spontaneous diners and late-night foodies alike.
The menu boasts an enticing selection of mains, each crafted with precision. One standout option is the 'WHAT'S THE CRAIC?' BURGER, a sumptuous bacon cheeseburger topped with deliciously caramelized onions and served alongside hand-cut fries, all for just $22. If you're in the mood for something seafood-based, the HORSERADISH CRUSTED COD LOIN, served with shellfish-tomato sauce and chive mashed potatoes, will leave your taste buds dancing at $27. Vegetarian diners will appreciate the WILD MUSHROOM DUXELLE RAVIOLI, rich with sherry and thyme for a delightful $24.
For those who want to begin their culinary journey, the starters are equally enticing. The DUCK CONFIT QUESADILLA with a beet-cherry pachadi and tamarind glaze is a must-try, offering a unique twist at $18. Fans of comfort food will appreciate the ROASTED GARLIC & PARSNIP BISQUE, perfect for warming your soul at just $13.
What truly sets Franklin Cafe apart, however, is its ability to foster genuine human connections in a relaxed atmosphere. Customers rave about the late-night vibe with friends old and new, as seen in reviews praising its unpretentious atmosphere and the strong sense of community. The mix of good food, great drinks, and comforting ambiance resonates well with patrons like Baker, Gina, and Hursuong, who appreciate Franklin as more than just a restaurant—it's a social haven.
Franklin Cafe's remarkable dishes, friendly service, and the unmistakable buzz of conversation make it more than a dining destination; it’s an experience. So whether you stop by for brunch on the weekend or settle in for an evening cocktail, know that each moment spent at Franklin is a celebration of good food and even better company. Join us at Franklin Cafe, where the restaurant culture thrives with every delightful bite! For reservations or inquiries, call (617) 350-0010.
I'm not sure I'm even allowed to review this spot. All I'll say is that once I first walked in and saw everyone drinking High Lifes I knew WTF was goin' on. This spot is industry to the bone. Open til it's closed. Great drinks with no fuss. Late night kitchen serving GOOD food. And this is a spot for friends old and new. There is music strictly by the legal sense. All of the conversation drowns it out. You're here to take in life for real and that involves talking to your neighbors and making human connections. I don't know Franklin, but thanks for bringing us this bar, my guy!
Absolutely love this place in the south end. We're introduced to it when we moved here about two years ago and it is our night time go to for either takeout or eat in. Very comfortable vibe, food is excellent, especially the Franklin burger and they are open late so you can get your eats after a show or if you have any midnight munchies. Highly recommend.
We happened into this cafe on our last day in Boston. Wasn't planning on having a cocktail or even brunch as it was just past noon, but the Dark Manhattan was excellent as was the chicken fried steak and eggs. We came in starving and left full and happy. Beautiful little spot, hope to come back someday.
A small restaurant in South End with no sign name just their icon at the entrance. I came here for brunch with a few friends and had a hard time choosing which dish to get. I opted for the eggs Benedict that came in puff pastry instead of an English muffin and thought it was a perfect swap. The eggs were cooked nicely with a runny center and went well with the crispy puff pastry. The service was good and we enjoyed our meal. There are also two single stall bathrooms that are super tiny. Overall, a nice place to grab brunch on the weekends in South End.
Really enjoyed my crostini and risotto. A nice tucked away neighborhood spot for Al fresco dining, although the occasional loud car will still pass by. Friendly service. Able to walk in for Sunday dinner without reservation.
Went back the other night after a bad experience, one of the managers reached out and invited me back for dinner. I gave it another shot and for apps ordered the grilled calamari and wings which were very good. Dinner entrees consisted of the salmon and the sole fish plates. The salmon was my favorites and it was cooked perfectly, also the mango mai tai is a must try Service and food was on point and I thank your for the great night and make it a better experience.