Welcome to Francisco's Restaurant
At Francisco's Restaurant, we celebrate the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Caribbean cuisine. Nestled in Rochester, MN, this black-owned and women-owned eatery offers a welcoming space for everyone, featuring casual outdoor seating and wheelchair accessibility. Our daily specials, like juicy jerk chicken and authentic braised oxtail, showcase the essence of Jamaican cooking, while our late-night menu tempts with options such as Rasta Pasta and jerk tacos. With vegan choices, happy hour specials, and an inviting atmosphere, Francisco's is perfect for groups and families alike. Join us for a culinary journey that nourishes the soul and satisfies the palate.
Francisco's Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings
Great food and the colada was good. Smaller restaurant but has plenty of seating. Staff were nice and patient when I was selecting order.
On a chilly December day, Francisco's made me feel like I had been transported to the Caribbean! Cute decide, clean, bright with friendly staff. The place smelled amazing and my jerk pork with coconut rice and fried plantains was amazing. This is legitimately as good as anything you would find in Jamaica and I can't wait to go back and try the rest of the menu. Seriously, just go.
Came in for a Jamaican Beef Pattie. I was skeptical about authenticity in Rochester but when I heard the accent of the server, I knew it would be ok. Would love to try the jerk chicken next time. Beef pattie crust was flaky and sweet. Also meat wasn't too dry. Would have loved a bit more flavor in the form of pepper but it was overall ok. Service was relatively quick since I just wanted the patty.
The food is amazing ! Staff and service is top tier! Best food and smoothies in Rochester I wanted a smoothie for breakfast and found everything I wanted and was craving .Plenty to eat if you are vegetarian!
Very nice spot! Easy to get to and park nearby. Was greeted upon entering and had a great experience overall. The Jamaican beef patty was delicious -- filling was flavorful and the crust was flaky. Ordered the whole fish, steamed, with veggie rice. The fish was flaky and delicious in the coconut broth. Also tried a side of jerk chicken -- stellar! Flavorful and marinated throughout the meat and was very juicy! Loved everything!
A surprising find coming to MN. If looking for a little taste of the Caribbean, this place surely delivers! The coconut rice and peas give me a touch of nostalgia every time.
Yum! One of the best Cubans I've had in MN. Done right with the thinly-sliced ham, thin bread, and firmly pressed. Just the right amount of mustard, pickles, and cheese. Jamaican slaw was delicious but the portion could've been bigger. The chicken croquettes....nom nom nom. Excellent. Dipped in that cilantro lime sauce....*chef's kiss.* Too bad I'm not from the area, otherwise I would return.
Francisco's is a small joint. Service moves at slow and friendly pace... island time! You'll wait for your food and it is very much worth it. I ordered curried whole sautéed snapper. The pic isn't much to look at but the fish was delish! Cilantro rice was meh. I tried my husbands saffron rice and that was better. Great place, great menu. totally worth a visit.
Fun little restaurant located conveniently in heart of downtown Rochester. This was my 1st time, and I am excited to rank this as one of my favorite local eats and recent hidden gem. Francisco offers Caribbean food is delicious, reasonably priced, and made by the team with love, laughter, and happiness. Reminded me of Pimento in the Cities. Ordered - Curry Empanada (4/5). Hot off the grill, this was piping hot with mouth watering with a curry that reminded me of home. A 1, 2 biter of yummy goodness. - Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Cilantro Rice, Plantains, and Island Slaw (4/5). Delicious. The cilantro rice was unique and flavorful - something new I never had. The BBQ chicken was similar but slightly different at the same time. Great spot with good people and vibes. Can't wait to re-visit and try other dishes like a nice ol' Cuban sandwich. cheers!
My husband and I went here for lunch on a Saturday. We're glad to have found a good latin place to eat in Rochester! The food is wonderful; we ate passion fruit smoothie, cheese pastry, curry chicken empanada, spicy Cuban sandwich, and Cuban club. The cheese pastry was the best!!! The only reason I subtracted 1 star is that the lady who took our order demonstrated poor customer service toward us. She gave us attitude when we attempted to order and cut us off stating "I'm waiting to finish this catering order." So we waited for a little until another employee told her to just take our order. No apology.. just an eye candy roll. It just gave us a bad first impression. However, since the food is excellent, we will be back.. And hopefully I can change this to 5 star!
Location
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1137 2nd St SW First Avenue Food Ct Rochester, MN 55902 United States Hotline: (507) 258-7722
Welcome to Francisco's Restaurant, a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of Rochester, MN, serving authentic Caribbean flavors that transport you directly to tropical shores. At Francisco's, every bite is an experience, a journey steeped in the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean, celebrating a diverse and delicious array of dishes crafted with love and expertise.
Located at 1137 2nd St SW, First Avenue Food Ct, this charming eatery is not just a place to eat; it’s an invitation to savor life. With its bright décor, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to exceptional service, Francisco's is perfect for brunch, lunch, or that late-night craving. Whether you’re taking a seat outdoors to enjoy the sunshine or savoring flavors in the cozy interior, you’ll find a space that welcomes everyone—families, friends, and groups alike.
- Utilizes Reservations: Plan ahead for a delightful experience.
- Vegan Options: Includes a variety of dishes for plant-based diners.
- Delivery and Takeout: Enjoy your favorites at home.
- Happy Hour Specials: Perfect for unwinding with friends.
As you peruse the menu, you cannot help but notice the standout dishes that have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of its patrons. The Jerk Chicken Sandwich is a customer favorite, marrying succulent Jamaican jerk chicken with fresh toppings, while the Cuban Sandwich delights with its tender ham and roast pork combination. For those seeking culinary authenticity, the Jamaican Beef Patties boast a flaky crust and flavorful filling—an absolute must-try. And don’t forget the Oxtail and Cheese Empanada and the Jerk Shrimp Taco, both of which are sure to have you coming back for more.
It’s clear from the rave reviews that the ambiance is as inviting as the food is tasty. Patrons have remarked on how the restaurant radiates joy, with staff members who are attentive and passionate about the culinary experience. One visitor, Charles N., described how he felt transported to the Caribbean while enjoying jerk pork with coconut rice—an experience he characterized as second to none. LaMecia M. echoed similar sentiments, noting the authenticity of the Jamaican flair evident in every dish she tried.
But it’s not just about the food; Francisco’s offers a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities like wheelchair accessibility and gender-neutral restrooms, ensuring comfort for all guests. With options for outdoor seating and even a late-night menu, it’s a place that caters to every need.
Whether you're a local in Rochester or just passing through, Francisco's Restaurant is a culinary destination you’ll want to add to your itinerary. Prepare to indulge in flavors that are deep, vibrant, and oh-so-satisfying. Dig into Caribbean cuisine that tells a story with every bite!
For reservations or inquiries, you can reach them at (507) 258-7722. Don’t miss out on making memories filled with delicious food and great company.
