Italian-American Cuisine
Some of the most essential qualities of an Italian-American restaurant in Panama are its welcoming atmosphere, inviting conversation with friends and family, and the incredible aroma of garlic, oregano, and tomato sauce emanating from the kitchen. On the table, a heaping plate of Spaghetti & Meatballs or a Lasagna with bubbling mozzarella, or perhaps a traditional Caesar Salad.
These dishes are more than just food; they’re an experience. They are the delicious result of a beautiful story about Italian immigrants who traveled to the United States with their family recipes in tow. This story is also the origin of Frank’s Place, a culinary offering featuring family recipes that have been passed down through generations.
From Nonna to the International Table
When waves of immigrants, mainly from southern Italy, arrived in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, key ingredients such as olive oil, prosciutto, and certain cheeses were scarce.
But they were resourceful. They saw the abundance the United States had to offer and got creative. They began using local ingredients to capture the essence of their favorite dishes. Thus, a whole new cuisine was born, exemplified by dishes like spaghetti and meatballs. In Italy, polpette (meatballs) are smaller and usually served alone. Here, they grew larger, joined pasta, and became the iconic, hearty meal we all know and love, available on our menus.
It’s more than food, it’s a feeling
Chef Robert Santomenno Wallace created Frank’s Place in honor of his grandfather. The essence of a good Italian-American restaurant in Panama is that feeling of warmth and community, which is precisely what we seek to capture. We are proud to offer an Italian-American experience in Panama, with our chef’s unique touch, which respects the local palate and keeps tradition alive.
This cuisine is not pretentious or complicated. It’s inviting. It’s the kind of place you can come to for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion and feel right at home.
The food is the star
You can’t discuss Italian-American culture without envisioning a movie scene and the artists of Italian descent who have created great cultural classics.
Think of the romantic spaghetti dinner from Lady and the Tramp or the famous line “Leave the gun, take the cannoli” from The Godfather. Film and television fell in love with this food, making it a star.
Others, such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Perry Como, and Tony Bennett, mastered music and sang songs with Italian themes, often photographed in Italian restaurants. These artists not only made Italian-American food delicious, but also glamorous and with a “cool” factor that endures to this day.
Why will you love the Italian-American experience at Frank’s Place?
At our Italian-American restaurant in Panama, you can:
- Savor a story: Each dish tells a rich story of immigration, resilience, and entrepreneurial drive.
- Enjoy comfort food: The rich, savory flavors feel like a warm hug on your plate. It’s food that makes you feel good.
- Share with your friends and family: This is a social meal, made for sharing dishes, sharing stories, and making memories with loved ones.
- Find something for everyone: From rich and creamy pastas to light and fresh salads, incredible pizzas, and vegan options, the menu is always diverse and delicious.
Evolving cuisine
Today’s chefs continually find new ways to honor the classics, adding their own creative twists. The spirit of adaptation that started it all remains alive. At Frank’s Place, we take pride in being part of that ongoing story.