photo: Courtesy of Nick Flandro
Take one step into this cozy lounge on Clark Street and you'll know why it's named after Ol' Blue Eyes. While the music selection doesn't always fit the swingin' mood, Frank's offers its clientele some of the finest martinis and cocktails on the North Side—not to mention an atmosphere as smooth as "Fly Me to the Moon."
As Sinatra was notorious for knocking back more than a few into the wee hours of the morning, this 4 a.m. bar also supports late-night libations. Frank's interior is classically cool, like Sinatra himself decorated it. Album covers from Sinatra, Elvis and Dean Martin are scattered throughout the space. Everything's bathed in warm, orange-ish hues, courtesy of the candles at every table and decorative lighting. Space is hard to come by, so your best bet is to snag a seat at the bar or one of the two booths up front. The tables lining the long hallway are incredibly small—even for two people. Get here early to enjoy the relaxed mood and specialty drinks before the rowdy, decidedly un-sophisticated late-night crowd stumbles in. Go for the Chocolate Cherry, made with Effen black cherry and Godiva liqueur, or toast the bar's namesake with an "Ol' Blue Eyes" ($9). For the beer drinkers, your best bet is bottles (there are only four beers on tap). Typically, drinks aren't cheap, but hey, neither was Sinatra.
Can't miss the game? Franks has a handful of TVs, so, don't worry, you’re covered.
Centerstage Reviewer: John Kristoff