It's always the right time to grab a seat at the Vera bar. In fact, the spots closest to the large, often open, street front window are some of the most coveted in the entire restaurant. Enjoy antipasto plates (literally, “before the meal”) from our daily selections and a drink while you wait for friends, or join us for a full meal and sample our numerous Wines by the Glass or Frank's Wine Choices. Seats at the bar also come with access to extensive Wine List, which boasts over 750 Italian labels, and an expert bartender who can guide your choices. Oh, and for those of you who aren't that into “grape juice,” don't worry, we've got a full bar and a great selection of Beers. We're happy to keep you company.

Vera, short for Elvira, was Frank's paternal grandmother. A matriarch to her family, Elvira inspired Frank to respect simplicity and stay true to time honored methods from dishes as complicated as lasagna or as simple as veal cutlets. "Frankie, you must concentrate, you must love your food, and you must love watching people eat it." Elvira's lasagna, manicotti, calves liver and many other handmade specialties are perennial favorites at all of Frank's restaurants.

Carmela, Frank's maternal grandmother, who is pictured on the Frank dinner menu with husband Carlo Panella, was as influential on Frank as Vera was. She was an incredible cook, and took Frank to Italy when he was just 12 years old. Carmela was chosen by her mother to carry on their family recipes and in turn, Carmela chose Frank. Their relationship was of teacher and student. On her deathbed, she reviewed recipes with Frank to ensure he had them committed to memory. Thankfully she was able to see her recipes come alive at Frank's Restaurants before she passed away at the age of 93.