Franky’s Pizzeria Near+Far rating: 8/10
Why Book Franky’s Pizzeria
Nestled above the urban buzz of JLT, Franky’s Pizzeria is a rooftop oasis, a contemporary canvas splashed with vibrant Italian charm. The menu is simple, stripped back and done right – just Neapolitan pizzas, delectable antipasti, fresh salads, great desserts and killer cocktails, plus some playful Italian surprises along the way. The mastermind behind this concept? Tom Arnel, the culinary trailblazer behind beloved spots like The Guild, Tom&Serg, Hawkerboi and Common Grounds. Franky’s Pizzeria embraces the spirit of spontaneity with a “no-reservations” policy. Just stroll in, grab a spot on the rooftop under the twinkling lights, and let the Italian magic unfold. Franky’s has the unique proposition of appealing to all – romantic date nights, casual catch-ups with friends and even family gatherings, thanks to its elegant yet casual aesthetic and ibe. Franky’s Pizzeria proves that sometimes the best things come in unassuming packages (or, in this case, open-air rooftops). And with Arnel’s track record, be prepared to be wowed.
The Vibe: 8/10
The magic starts the moment you step onto the rooftop of JLT’s The Park. Franky’s embraces spontaneity, welcoming you with open arms (and an even wider rooftop). Settle into stylish wicker chairs under twinkling lights, the gentle hum of conversation carried by the balmy Dubai breeze. But the ambience is just the first course. Feast your eyes on the open kitchen, a fiery spectacle where passionate chefs craft Neapolitan pizzas in one of the largest wood-fired ovens in the city. Franky’s is all about casual Italian charm. Mingle with friends around communal tables, sharing laughter and plates of antipasti that transport you straight to lively Italian piazzas. On a Friday night, we opted for the rooftop as the ideal spot to reconnect and spoil a dear old friend – a stunning location that’s lively and cheerful. The rooftop as well became bustling around 9-10 pm as residents from JLT and beyond flocked to enjoy the delights that the pizzeria has to offer. The service is friendly and attentive, and the ambience is classically Italian – playful, warm and inviting.
The Interiors: 8/10
Franky’s Pizzeria throws open its arms with warm, unpretentious Italian charm. Nestled atop JLT’s The Park, the indoor-outdoor space includes a small indoor dining area and the showstopper – the terrace (a must-book). Inside, greenery and an open kitchen create a homely feel – where towering wood-fired ovens roar with life, their flames mirroring the passion pouring into each Neapolitan pizza. Forget floor-to-ceiling windows – the walls are open to the sky, offering mesmerizing views as the sun sets over the city (TBC is on the set-up for when summer comes, but for now, the indoor-outdoor vibe is delightful). The terrace is the jewel in the crows of the Franky’s Pizzeria experience. Don’t worry about bracing the wind – the payoff is unparalleled – overlooking the towers and lakes of JLT.
The Food: 9/10
We began our feast with a concept unique to Franky Pizzeria – the Signature Straciatella Service. Here, the classic Italian delight is whipped tableside with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and oregano, adding a touch of drama and delight. This creamy masterpiece is served alongside an array of accompaniments – crunchy crostini, savoury bresaola, sweet melon slices, tangy pickles, briny olives, and even a fiery kick from fermented chili. Trust us, this is a must order. Craving comfort food with a gourmet twist? The Franky’s Famous Family Meatballs are your answer – tender, juicy meatballs bathed in a silky tomato sauce, each bite bursting with flavour and topped with a shower of Parmesan cheese.
Now, to the star of the show – the pizzas. Fired to perfection in Franky’s wood-fired oven, each boasts the perfect leopard crust and pillowy consistency loved of the Neopolitan style. The Black Truffle and Mushroom are earthy and rich, while the Potato Pizza (topped with cubes of roasted potato and both fior di latte, Gorgonzola, plus confit garlic and rosemary) is the epitome of comfort food. Of course, there are lighter tomato-based slices too – with any extras or changes welcomed. These are pizzas that demand respect (and multiple slices). Make sure to treat yourself to a sweet escape with Franky’s decadent desserts – the Tiramisu, its layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The Verdict
This charming pizzeria has managed to bring the warm, community-driven feel of Italy to Dubai, serving the perfect Neopolitan pizzas, with some modern, typically Eatx twists along the way. The atmosphere is cosy and inviting, and each dish is lovingly packed with flavour and passion. Franky’s Pizzeria is a fantastic addition to the city’s dining scene, allowing its residents to enjoy the magic of Italian cuisine whenever they feel like it.
The Park, JLT; eatx.com, @frankyspizzeria
