***** Over the years, I have been to or through Kenosha Wisconsin quite often. To my dismay ( now that I know of Frank’s), I had never heard of or visited a diner that has been on 58th street for almost 100 years! Frank’s Diner is a very tiny place resembling a train car and it has been sitting where it sits, with some modifications over the years since 1925 and in operation since 1926.
Under the current ownership of Kevin Ervin and Julie Rittmiller, who run the place with an attitude that I truly love- “Order what you want, eat what you get”. Everything is fresh, including some bread that our guests ( we brought Dan and Marla Gelfond with, and he did most of the photos) absolutely loved. Many of the “locals” who dine there regularly, came to our table so we could take a picture of their favorites as well. From what they tell me, on weekends and holidays the wait can be long, but always worth it because the food is that good!
Frank’s is known for its “Garbage Plate Menu”: start with three eggs (half plate) or 5 ( full plate), and then mix it into a combination of hashbrowns, green peppers and onions. Then you can add meats and cheeses or just do a veggie as the ladies did. We had two half plates, more than ample to feed all 4 of us. When you see the prices, you will feel as if you have died and gone to heaven. When you taste the breakfast ( or lunch) and in particular the home made toast ( made with a yogurt base) you will know that another bell has rung in Kenosha **
Frank’s is also known for its homemade pancakes and French Toast. we opted to partake of the cinnamon Swirl French Toast sprinkled with cinnamon sugar on top- wow!
While we were pretty well fed by this time, Kevin suggested we try the Homemade Cinnamon Roll for which they are famous. We all found the room and on another heavenly trip.
The menu is filled with many other combinations that will satisfy every taste, from simple eggs, to homemade biscuits and gravy ( for my next trip up there).
Not thinking breakfast? They have a burger menu that will knock your sox off and the ones I saw being served were beautiful. Based on the smiles of those partaking of them, I would have to say “we’re heading up for lunch one day, very soon!” They also have daily specials. I love the selection of soups and the chili looked might good! While they looked tempting, it is my choice to only talk about things that can be ordered on any given day, so no-one ever drives up to try something that is only offered on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month! ( ha ha, my joke).
Frank’s Diner is , what I might call a landmark in Kenosha, and only took us 43 minutes from Northbrook Mall area to the door. A cool place to visit! A staff that makes sure you are happy and having a good time along with a great meal! Prices that are affordable! Most important, the best food and worth the trip!
Frank’s Diner , Kenosha is located at 508 58th Street ( just 6 miles east of Route 94) and is open:
Monday-Fridays 6:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.
Saturday 7:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.
Sundays 7:00 am until 12:30 p.m.
They accept credit cards and if you prefer cash, they have an ATM machine on premise
The phone number is 262-657-1017 www.franksdinerkenosha.com
Parking is free ( don’t park in the lot next door-American Legion.
** Theater people might hear this and be reminded of the play ( or movie) “It’s A Wonderful Life”. In the script, there is mention that every time we hear a bell ring, an Angel gets their wings”.
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