Frank's Restaurant, New Orleans

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New Orleans like all tourist towns has its share of institutions cum tourist traps. When it comes to food doubly so. The Muffuletta is New Orleans answer to Philly's Hoagie, an Italian sandwich made with cold cuts and a very tasty olive salad. The Central Market right in the French Quarter gets credit for inventing them as well as serving the best. I had one 14 years ago and was looking forward to having another on my recent return trip but unfortunately found myself there on a Sunday when the store is closed. Dying for one we were glad to find a shop a few doors down tauting the Muffuletta as well. With it being our last day in town we didn't have much choice but to give it a shot. Frank's Restaurant is right out of a Godfather movie, with slovenly droopy eyed waiters that seem more suited to knocking someone off than serving food. But we were happy to see a big Italian family chowing down and obviously enjoying their food, only a small portion of which was the Muffuletta on their table. seeming like a loaf of bread to this ravenous crew.

Favorite Dish: We, on the other hand, were glad we only ordered one between us as the sandwich came out and was quite enough. It was certainly tasty and the combination of salami, ham, provolone and especially the green olive salad hit the spot. But the bread was not the best I've ever had and from what I gather Central Grocery beats them on that count. Still, if you find yourself in New Orleans on a Sunday, Frank's will give you a good idea of what the fuss is about when it comes to a Muffuletta. A large sandwich is $8.95 and enough for two average eaters.

The best place we ate (and we did eat!!) was Frank's.
Bartender and waiter were hilarious! Great service. A little pricey, but well worth it!

Favorite Dish: Great Hurricanes, awesome alfredo with shrimp. The hubby had a muffeleta, he just had to try it before we left. Great place if you can get there!