Next to a second hand bookstore, in a quiet, undercover spot in an arcade may seem an unlikely place for a place to eat and drink. But, here lies Frank’s Bar.

Chef Lucienne Curchod (ex Mona Vale’s Missy Foxall) heads the kitchen in Richard Simec's newer establishment in Avalon, serving up an Italian menu, with a focus on seasonal produce and revolving specials.

Frank’s Bar may be tucked away in Stapleton Arcade, but a skylight lets brings in natural light during the day and candles enrich the mood at night. Large communal tables covered with cowhide tablecloths are dotted with fresh potted plants, which also hang from the ceilings in recycled tyres, and bring a bit of the great outdoors in.

The coffee here is Toby Estate and menu items include fresh paninis stuffed with bocconcini, tomato and basil and Frank’s (signature) Chicken Club. The sourdough is sourced down the road at La Banette, and the emphasis on quality ingredients can be seen in the simple menu items, featuring items like homemade aioli and salsa verde in many dishes.

For drinking, there’s a concise list of three beers and 10 wines by the glass, which hail from Australia, Spain and Italy. Cocktails like the Sneaky Apple are available and are served alongside a smaller food menu of things to share, like pizza.