When word spread last month that Franklin’s beloved Main Street Diner was closing after 42 years, leaving a gaping hole in the town’s culinary heart, local chefs did what they do best – they rose to the occasion. Here are the 10 establishments now defining Franklin’s vibrant food scene.
Don Pancho’s Cantina
$ | (757) 516-8622 | WEBSITE
Don Pancho’s Cantina will be serving up their huge and tender lunch burrito, as well as their exceptional Pollo con crema and Queso dip. Available for Franklin dining only, visit their location to order.
Hubs Virginia Peanuts
$$ | (757) 562-4081 | WEBSITE
This Franklin gem is doing their part by creating Virginia Peanuts to-go packs, which are filled with enough top-notch peanuts for snacking, sealed tight for freshness. Each pack costs $15, stop by their cafeteria-style setup to pick some up and for more details.
Starbucks
$ | (757) 517-2880 | WEBSITE
For the rest of December, Starbucks’ Franklin location will donate 10% of their coffee sales to both the local food bank and this community fundraiser organized by the staff. Available for dine-in and takeout, visit the shop off Route 58 to enjoy.
Great Wall
$ | (757) 569-0505 | WEBSITE
A portion of the sales made at this Chinese restaurant will go directly to the local community during the month of December. Great Wall rotates between lunch specials and dinner entrees – check their menu for details.
El Ranchero Mexican Grill And Bar
$ | (757) 562-2811 | WEBSITE
El Ranchero Mexican Grill And Bar has committed to expanding with a second location in the works. The family-owned Mexican restaurant offers a variety of authentic Mexican cuisine such as delicious fajitas, tasty margaritas, and kid-friendly options. Available for dine-in with wheelchair accessibility, enjoy their reasonably priced lunch menu and top-tier drinks.
Kiki’s Grill
$ | (757) 304-5600 | WEBSITE
The Chinese and Japanese cuisine specialist is serving up some of the freshest food in the Franklin area. They will also be featuring their must-try cheesesteak egg rolls and crispy General Tso’s chicken as standout offerings. Kiki’s Grill is available for takeout, with friendly and fast service that keeps the energy good. Call to order and enjoy their delicious chicken fried rice and hibachi dishes with fresh vegetables.
Three Guys Italian Restaurant
$ | (757) 562-5588 | WEBSITE
In addition to being one of the most welcoming spots in town, Three Guys Italian Restaurant has perfected a meat lovers pizza with a from-scratch crust and flavorful toppings. For every meat lovers pizza ordered, they donate a portion of the proceeds to local charities. Available for dine-in and takeout, call (757) 555-1234 or visit their website.
Fred’s Restaurant
$ | (757) 562-2919 | WEBSITE
Fred’s Restaurant (a.k.a. the “Home of the Pork Tenderloin”) is donating 10% of their weekend proceeds to the Franklin Food Bank. Call (757) 555-0123 to reserve, check their Facebook page for daily specials.
Arby’s
$ | (757) 516-2894 | WEBSITE
A Franklin staple, Arby’s is showing its community spirit – staff member Kisha recently covered the difference when a customer came up short on cash, demonstrating the personal touch that keeps locals coming back. Arby’s offers both dine-in and drive-thru service, though be prepared for the occasional wait if you get stuck in the drive-thru line behind multiple orders. The food delivers solid fast-food satisfaction with their signature curly fries, though portions can sometimes run a bit light.
With its truck-stop vibe and limited parking out front, it’s the kind of unpretentious, kid-friendly spot that feels authentically Franklin.
Wydia’s Seafood and Steakhouse
$ | (757) 556-6743 | WEBSITE
Wydia’s Seafood and Steakhouse will be donating $5,000 to the Franklin Food Bank to support local families in need. The family-owned restaurant has been a Franklin staple for years, offering takeout and delivery through their online ordering system. Their smothered pork chop special and rib eye are standout dishes that keep customers coming back, served in a bright, open dining room with friendly staff who make everyone feel welcome.
The generous portions and home-cooked quality show the clear care put into every meal, from the catfish dinner to the perfectly seasoned string beans. It’s this community-focused approach and delicious food that make Wydia’s a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.