In a first for the neighborhood, a sparkling new steakhouse and bar is opening soon on 4^th Street North, led by a star-studded team of chefs. Frankie’s Italian Chophouse has its official Grand Opening on July 6 at 8901 4th Street North.

Promising a “classic meets modern” approach, Frankie’s will specialize in high quality steaks and meats, fine wines, fresh pasta, and hearty servings of Italian-American eats. More specialties include house-made focaccia, hand-rolled mozzarella, and high-end chops selected exclusively for Frankie’s. The restaurant begins taking reservations today for all dates July 6 and beyond, as available, which can be made by calling 727-220-0345.

The inspiration leans heavily on the Sicilian roots of owner Frank Schittino, who has been running the popular Italian eatery Café Cibo since 1999, and he has partnered with multi-passionate business entrepreneur Chad Davis to bring their shared vision to life through a passion for great meats, fun atmospheres, and upscale dining experiences.

While Schittino and Davis’ influences are evident throughout the contemporary new digs and Italian offerings, the duo has tapped rising star Chef Erik Virgil to lead the menu innovation. Virgil, who learned cooking and baking from his mother as a kid in San Juan, brings the experience of working in a 3 Star Michelin kitchen to St. Pete, and this follows the name he has already made for himself in Tampa’s culinary circles in recent years.

As for the restaurant itself, the sprawling complex houses a full 5,400 square feet of newly renovated spaces. Frankie’s will showcase an elegant bar, a walk-in wine cooler, a hand-rolled mozzarella and salami station, and a family style dining room. Renovations of the building included a new state-of-the-art kitchen, where Virgil’s deep experience in Italian-American cuisine will be able to shine.

Meanwhile, Davis has used his expertise to build an expansive wine program, showcasing some of the best bottles from across the globe. In his tour of wineries across the world, he’s selected favorites from all over to feature at Frankie’s, pairing incredible cuts of meat with perfectly complementary wines.

Between the three of them and their multiple decades (and Michelin Stars) of experience, Frankie’s Italian Chophouse seems to have earned the high level of anticipation. Follow them on Instagram and facebook for more updates, and make plans to stop in beginning July 6.