LASTING IMPRESSION Franklin’s Culaccino leaves us impressed
Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos by Victoria Rosa and Nathan Zucker Named after the Italian word for the “lasting impression” a cold glass leaves on a wooden table, Culaccino left us impressed by its casually elegant atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Chef Frank Pullara recently transplanted his young family to Tennessee to open his first solo concept restaurant on Main Street in Downtown Franklin. Pullara has an impressive list of culinary achievements spanning 20 years, most recently with Campagna Hospitality Group in Naples, Florida (Bar Tulia, Osteria Tulia, and The French)—restaurants familiar to the many Nashvillians who spend time in Naples. Having recently enjoyed meals in Naples at both The French and Bar Tulia, the bar was high when we visited Culaccino on a recent Sunday evening. The restaurant was buzzing with activity both inside and out. Culaccino has a spacious dining room and an expansive outdoor patio with Downtown Franklin’s only
outdoor bar. Plenty of heaters and umbrellas are on the patio, with fire pits to maximize outdoor comfort and extend al fresco dining opportunities. The cocktails are creative with names like Vanity’s Fair and Jazz Hands; beer and wines both still and sparkling by the glass or bottle are extensive. Our server Lee was incredibly knowledgeable and made stellar recommendations with all of our cocktail, wine, and dining options. We knew our evening was off to a great start with Culaccino’s house-made whipped ricotta and some irresistible focaccia and bread. The Fried Calamari appetizer included other fritto misto inclusions of zucchini, squash, carrots, and lemon and was served with piquant Calabrian chili mayo. Meatballs are always a good judge of a great Italian restaurant, and Culaccino’s did not disappoint—delicious meatballs bathed in a pool of delicious tomato sauce.
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