Frankie’s Westlake knows pizza

Frankie's Italian Cuisine serves up award-winning pizza and authentic Italian dishes at their Center Ridge Road location in Westlake.

In our country where democracy rings true, politicians like to state “the people have spoken” when it comes to voting.  This could never be more accurate when describing Frankie’s Italian Cuisine. 

The Plain Dealer recently completed their Pizza Playoffs, and Frankie’s was voted best pizza by the People’s Choice for the Northwest Region beating out the judge’s ultimate winner, Angelo’s of Lakewood. Who’s the real winner? You are, if you order the pizza.

Their made-fresh-daily sauce and dough is the base, along with shredded provolone. We topped our large with pepperoni, sausage, onion and green pepper ($13.95). Every ingredient was just delicious and the crust was golden brown with a great firm texture. It’s no wonder why it was the people’s choice. 

This small, yet quaint, restaurant has an air of Italy with the décor that adorns its walls. Come summertime, the outside patio nearly doubles the size of this establishment.

Let's get started with some Chicken Wings ($8.50 for 10). I know what you’re saying: wings at an Italian place? Trust me. These sauce-free, breaded, spicy wings are crispy and delicious. I’ve gone to many a party to find catered wings from Frankie’s, that speaks for itself.

My daughter's favorite is the Fried Ravioli appetizer ($6.95). Ricotta cheese-filled raviolis rolled in seasoned bread crumbs then fried to a golden brown with homemade tomato sauce for dipping.

There’s only one salad to order in my book, Frankie’s Famous House Salad ($6.75). A traditional mix of iceberg lettuce, carrots, red cabbage and then served with the fantastic house sweet and sour dressing. What makes it unmistakable is the enormous mound of shredded provolone that almost hides the whole salad. It’s big enough to share and then some.

When it comes to their pasta, there’s nothing better than the Fettuccini Alfredo (12.95). A wonderful blend of al dente pasta and the creamy rich Alfredo sauce that for some reason I just couldn’t stop eating until my plate was clean.

If veal is to your liking, go with the Veal a La Francesca ($18.95). Milk-fed veal perfectly seasoned, dipped in egg and then sautéed with fresh spinach, roasted red peppers and finished with a garlic white wine sauce. A real winner.

Try Frankie’s Taste of Italy ($18.95). It’s a great sampling of Homemade Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan and your choice of Fettuccini Alfredo or Linguini with Clam Sauce. The only problem you have is which pasta to choose, but don’t worry both are very good.

There is only so much one can eat, but our server recommended the next time we come in to order the Chicken Tosca ($16.95). Floured with Parmesan cheese, dipped in egg and sautéed with garlic then finished with a lemon white wine sauce. Sounds tasty, I’ll let you know.

The service is always friendly and knowledgeable about their menu.

One of the best services that Frankie’s offers is that after 4 p.m., they deliver. Not only do they deliver, but they are very timely. I’ve been told the they’ll deliver anywhere within reason.

Frankie’s, which has been family owned and operated since 1967, also has a location on Great Northern Boulevard in North Olmsted. The Harris family is waiting to serve you some true Italian favorites.

Rating: three stars out of four.

Frankie’s Italian Cuisine; 27828 Center Ridge Rd., Westlake; 440-892-0064