AWARDS/REVIEWS

Chicago Tribune – S.R. Carroll

Francesca's by the River brings a taste of Rome to St. Charles

"The food is Roman-style trattoria," said one of the restaurant's proprietors, meaning the dishes prepared are typical of different regions of Italy. "Like something you would find in Rome," he said, "a little taste from all of Italy."

The restaurant specializes in fresh fish and pasta, and the handwritten menu is changed daily. "People rave over our calamari and mussels." "The bruschette toppings change daily. The individual appetizer pizzas are very popular, and we're known for our veal [Vitello alla Napoletana, roasted veal medallions with mushrooms and green peppers in an herb tomato sauce]. The fish and pasta are always outstanding."

Desserts also change daily.

The atmosphere is casually elegant, with white tablecloths, exposed brick, wood floors and warm cream-colored walls featuring sepia-tone photographs taken in Italy.

Zagat Guide, Chicago

Spin-offs of Mia Francesca, this growing family of city and suburban Italians sticks to a "consistently delicious" formula: "fresh", "authentic" renditions of the "classics" served by a "friendly" staff at a "reasonable" price; success keeps them "crowded and loud", and youngish fans feel there "can't be too many" branches.