Franklin Ave Cocktails & Kitchen

Whether you’re coming for booze, a bite, or both, Franklin Ave Cocktails & Kitchen is one of the hottest spots in town. Built inside the revamped Franklin Avenue Variety Theatre building, its basement feels like it’s giving the finger to the minimal aesthetic trend by going big and bold—there’s art on every surface, exposed historic brickwork, walls lined with plaid banquettes, and leather-trimmed bar seats. Grab two spots at the upstairs bar, or head underground to a basement booth that fits your whole crew. 

When it comes to the menu, they do a lot with simple ingredients—take the snap peas, which they dress up with Fresno chiles, fresh mint, Thai basil, crushed cashews, and coconut cream. All the entrees are showstoppers, like the hearty wagyu burger and housemade pappardelle pasta, but the Raspado dessert is something you need to save room for. It’s basically a sweet scoop of cheesecake ice cream topped with tart raspberry hibiscus shrub, shaved ice, condensed milk, and a pile of fresh berries.