Williamsburg has plenty of restaurants worth crossing the bridge for, but Francie is playing in a different league. Tucked inside a striking limestone-clad former bank building at the corner of Broadway and Bedford Avenue, this Michelin-starred Brooklyn restaurant combines European brasserie charm, inventive cooking and a little old-school New York glamour.
At the helm is chef-owner Christopher Cipollone (@chefcipollone), whose impressive résumé includes acclaimed kitchens such as Piora in New York and Cotogna in San Francisco. His approach at Francie brings together French and Italian influences, seasonal ingredients and a playful attitude toward classic dishes.
Chef Chris Cipollone’s Culinary Playground
Cipollone believes food should be fun, and Francie’s menu makes that philosophy clear. Diners can start with oysters, inventive snacks or the restaurant’s celebrated market salad before moving on to handmade pasta and ambitious main courses.
Standouts include lobster ravioli with saffron and tarragon, duck Bolognese pappardelle and the restaurant’s famous dry-aged crown roast of duck. The duck has become something of a signature, arriving as a dramatic centerpiece designed for sharing.
And then there’s the cheese cart. Featuring an ever-changing selection of cheeses from around the world, it’s an increasingly rare restaurant tradition that Francie proudly keeps alive.
A Former Bank With a Serious Restaurant Personality
The setting is just as memorable as the food. Designed by architect Glen Coben, the dining room balances exposed brick, warm wood and an open kitchen that puts the culinary action on display.
The restaurant opened in December 2020 as the first collaboration between Cipollone and owner-operator John Winterman, whose hospitality résumé includes Daniel and Bâtard.
Why Francie Belongs on Your Brooklyn Dining List
Located at 136 Broadway, Brooklyn, Francie has established itself as one of Williamsburg’s standout destinations for special-occasion dinners, date nights and serious food enthusiasts.
With Michelin recognition, exceptional pasta, spectacular duck and Cipollone’s creative touch, Francie proves that some of New York’s most exciting dining experiences are happening across the bridge.
