Frankie

Overview

Frankie may not have the label of destination diner like its fellow Geelong spot Igni does, but this (cheaper) eatery is well worth the drive to the coast. Why? Well, the interior is divine — all polished leather, beige leather couches and soft rose-gold accents. It's the kind of interior we all want but are too clumsy and messy to manage. But let's not be superficial. Frankie serves up both atmosphere and a killer drinks menu featuring wines from local and state wineries, and gorgeously garnished cocktails (try the Stonemelon Sour for $20 — trust us).

Once you've quenched your thirst, the pan-Asian dinner menu has the rest of your night covered. The kitchen dabbles in a little Japanese cuisine with the crispy sesame rice balls ($18), a little Thai with their slow-cooked beef cheek curry ($32), and some Korean by way of fried chicken glazed in mirin and gochujang ($21). Plus, there's everyone's favourite finger food: bao. Try the slow-cooked pork belly version with sesame and crushed peanuts ($17) for a flavour combo you won't forget in a hurry.