This Williamsburg restaurant on Broadway is one of Brooklyn’s true culinary treasures.

Housed in a converted bank building with soaring ceilings and elegant marble details, Francie somehow manages to feel both grand and intimate. Chef-owner Christopher Cipollone’s menu defies easy categorization – it’s rooted in European techniques but playfully incorporates global influences. The dry-aged duck has become their signature dish for good reason – lacquered to perfection and served with seasonal accompaniments, it’s worth planning your visit around.

What sets Francie apart is their commitment to balancing refinement with approachability. Yes, they have a Michelin star, but there’s zero pretension here. The service strikes that perfect New York balance of knowledgeable and warm without hovering. Their bread program deserves special mention – the sourdough with cultured butter is a masterclass in the art of fermentation.

The bar program shines with classic cocktails executed flawlessly, and their wine list features both accessible options and splurge-worthy bottles. While it’s certainly a special occasion spot, it’s also the kind of place you could slip into for a weeknight dinner at the bar and feel equally at home.

Francie represents Brooklyn dining at its best – technically precise cooking that never loses sight of the fact that restaurants should, above all, be delicious and fun.