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ZipPicks Awards
Best Family Friendly Italian in Los Angeles
Best Lasagna in West Hollywood
Master Critic Review
Frankie's on Melrose
8.0
A Fairfax-rooted Italian-American red sauce joint running on family recipes since 1987, built around hearty plates like chicken parm and lobster fra diablo in a Rat Pack-era dining room where Sinatra stays on the speakers. It draws couples and families who want the old New York neighborhood Italian experience without the flight — quiet enough to talk, familiar enough to become a regular.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Parmigiana, Spaghetti & Meatballs, Lasagna Al Forno
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Family-run since 1987 by a New York transplant who built a Rat Pack-era dining room with Sinatra on the speakers and his grandmother's recipes on the stove.
Who should go: Couples and families craving old-school New York Italian
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for an intimate, unhurried experience
What to order: Start with Frankie's Meatballs, split the Chicken Parmigiana or Lasagna Al Forno as a main, and add a seafood dish if the table is sharing
Insider tip: The Competelli family still greets guests at the door — call ahead for reservations since they don't use online booking
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at the restaurant; street parking within a block but competitive during dinner hours on weekends — arrive early or valet on Fri/Sat
Dress code: Smart casual — white tablecloths and soft lighting set the tone; jeans and a nice top work fine, skip the flip-flops
Noise level: Quiet to moderate — soft background music, comfortable for conversation across the table
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection: Eggplant Parmigiana, Fettuccine Primavera, Angel Hair Checca, Ravioli Ricotta, Grilled Vegetable Salad, Bruschetta, Mozzarella Marinara, multiple soups and salads
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - Frankie's has a Rat Pack-inspired, Frank Sinatra-themed ambiance with dim lighting at dinner that sets an intimate, romantic tone. The family-run warmth makes it feel personal without being stuffy. Well-spaced booths offer privacy for conversation. Request a booth for the best date experience, or try the back patio for a more relaxed vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted and you can come in for current availability, but weekends are a different story - a credit card is required to hold weekend tables, so book ahead for Friday and Saturday nights. Weeknight walk-ins are generally easier. For peak dinner hours on any night, calling ahead is smart given the restaurant's 20-year neighborhood following.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - this is a family-run spot that welcomes kids, and the casual-Italian menu (chicken parm, fettuccine alfredo, pizza) has plenty of crowd-pleasers for younger eaters. A dedicated kids menu is not confirmed online - call ahead to ask. The relaxed, home-style atmosphere means kids won't feel out of place. Best for families before the dinner rush when the vibe shifts more toward date night.
Is it good for groups? Yes, up to a point - the largest table seats 12, though booth options are more limited for big parties. Tables of 6 or more are rebooked after 2 hours, so plan accordingly. Automatic gratuity is added for parties of 8+. Book well in advance for larger groups, especially on weekends. They also offer catering if your group outgrows the dining room.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - there is a back patio with views of their pizza oven, offering a more relaxed, open-air dining experience. Specific details on heating or cover are not confirmed online - call ahead if weather is a concern, though LA's climate makes it usable most of the year.
Best For
Better for: Date nights and special occasions — intimate old-school Italian-American with white tablecloths, soft lighting, and the owner visiting tables personally; standout dishes include the gnocchi and shrimp scampi
Skip if: You want lunch (dinner only starting at 5 PM), trendy modern Italian, or a budget meal — expect ~$35-45/person before drinks
Hours
Monday5pm - 10pm
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 12am
Saturday5pm - 12am
Sunday5pm - 10pm