Staying on an American-Italian tip, Frankie & Benny’s is a successful chain that has a large string of 1950s themed restaurants. The walls and menus are covered in old photos and memorabilia and 50s crooners like Nat King Cole and Dean Martin are usually playing on the stereo. In keeping with the theme, Frankie & Benny’s serve classic American and Italian dishes with a modern twist. We’re talking generous portions of spaghetti, pasta arrabbiata, meatballs, burgers, chicken and pizzas. They also serve pancakes, steak and eggs, muffins and traditonal breakfasts until 12am each day. Of course, Frankie & Benny’s lacks the charm and authenticity of independent, family-run trattorias. The friendly staff, familiar music and welcoming atmosphere however, make it an ideal restaurant for families and big groups. The frequent special offers probably help too.