I used to live half a block away from Francesca’s Bryn Mawr. The host knew my voice when I would call my take out order in several times a week. Several years ago, I moved a bit down the block but still close enough to walk to Francesca’s. The friendly service is exactly what makes Francesca’s a neighborhood anchor — the staff rarely turn over. In addition to the staff, my fellow patrons are welcoming to the point they will make you feel like an old friend.

I go to Francesca’s for all kind of reasons that include:

1- I do not feel like cooking.

2- I want my parents to meet my new boyfriend.

3- It is my birthday!

4- My parents are in town.

5- Girls night.

6- Dinner before a 5am night of dancing.

This is classic American-Italian fare. I recommend ordering the following: the calamari and/or the asparagus salad to start, and the pollo arrostro alla romano.

Regular tip: order the pollo breast alla romano, this version is a bit more tender. When my momma is in town, she typically orders a pasta special, so be sure to consider the nightly menu specials. There are also regular weekly specials with my favorites being the live jazz on Tuesdays and the half-price wine on Thursday nights.