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Francesca's Famiglia Reviews List

Francesca's Famiglia

Francesca’s Restaurants is happy to announce the 16th addition to the Francesca’s family! Francesca’s Famiglia, nestled in downtown Barrington’s quaint shopping district, features the zesty, earthy cuisine of Rome and the surrounding areas of Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio. In his latest rendition, Chef Scott Harris joins forces with fellow restauranteur, Michael Noone, to bring you a restaurant that encourages the lively art of dining with a contemporary, casually sophisticated trattoria ambiance. Simple rustic cooking, friendly service and fair prices make Francesca’s an experience to remember!

This non-smoking establishment features three intricately designed dining rooms, an impressive oak bar and personal wine cabinets for its guests. Striking photographs of rural Italian life by Paul Elledge line the walls to create a comfortable, urban setting throughout.
See more Francesca's Famiglia details
134 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
(134 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 134 reviews
5 stars
(56)
4 stars
(52)
3 stars
(16)
2 stars
(7)
1 star
(3)
Food 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(76)
  • special occasion(45)
  • good for groups(43)
  • fit for foodies(35)
  • romantic(32)
  • notable wine list(27)
Francesca's Famiglia Reviews List
Review 1 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Francesca's not ready!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Went to Francesca's for mothers day and it was a disappointment! Took one hour to get the meal we ordered and we found that we were not unique. Many other parties had the same issue. Have been very loyal to this restaurant, but there are other restaurants now in Barrington who provide far better service with very good food quality."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 2 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/13/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We have been here a bout 5 times, and it has uniformally been too loud to carry on a conversation with the rest of the people at our table, even when the restaurant is only half full... They need to find a way to reduce the noise level (carpeted floors and/or acoustic ceiling tiles) or we will find another restaurant."
Dined on 5/13/2013
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Review 3 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mother's Day Brunch

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was delightful, well prepared, and everyone talked about how good it was was. Our server was very attentive, and managed our time there very well. He never made us feel rushed, and the entire staff worked hard to ensure that plates were on and off the table without interrupting any of the conversation and "sharing"."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 4 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good food, very slow service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We went for dinner on Mother's Day. While the food was good, the service was unbearably slow. Our server seemed overwhelmed by the large tables in his section."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 5 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Overall good

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Always great food but this time, we had o wait for ou r table for more than 20 minutes. And it was extreme loud and noisy."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 6 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great but service was bit below par

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Been a long time fan of Francesca's in Barrington. The salads and bread were fresh. The main courses were good. I enjoyed my dates meal of Penne with asparagus over my dish of a spicy seafood spaghetti. The only reason I knocked the service is our waitress wasn't the best. Our salads came out after over more than a 10 minute wait. I assume This is mainly due to her not checking on us since it was just a mistake in the kitchen. It was a Friday night but the tables weren't at capacity. I think she was just not on her A game as a waitress. It happens."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, kid-friendly
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Review 7 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

vodka and pizza

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"martini's were great and the pizza was yummmm! ps... they have Willa vodka now!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Consistently Good!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Eaten here many times. Quality food and good service."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Friday nite lite

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food took time to arrive and when it arrived the Veal was tough but my chicken was very good.I mentioned the veal to the waiter & was refunded for the veal.Good customer service. Menu is limited.The seared spinach was excellent.My wofe said the cosmopolitan was alittle too strong."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list
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Review 10 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

super friendly hostess and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"super friendly hostess and owner. waiter was silent but efficient. the place was soo loud it was very difficult to hear one another. I was not at all happy with our table which was constantly bumped on all four sides by waiters and other patrons trying to get in to their booths or tables. food was good - wine was way overpriced. I think we would have spent more $ and time there if our waiter would have been even a little engaging, but he was zero personality."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2010
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Review 11 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointing exp at Francescas

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We decided to go to celebrate our 31st wedding anniv. Although we had 7p.m. reservations, we did not get seated until 715. Many parties that did not have reservations were seated before us. Once we said something, we were put in a corner in the back room next to the doors for the wait staff. We asked to be moved somewhere else and were then put in the main room. It took the wait staff 10 minutes to ask us if we wanted a drink. We asked for a bottle of wine which we found was not available. The waiter came back and said they had a house wine. He couldn't tell us anything about it - not even the price. We were given bread but no olive oil. Another 10 min. Linguine with shrimp & veggies did not have any veggies."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
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Review 12 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

An Italian restaurant with

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"An Italian restaurant with the ambience white table cloths bring, serving great wines, personable service, and food worth the time and money. This restaurant is one of our favorites. The changing menu allows us to come frequently without becoming bored by our choices. The only flaw is that it gets noisy as the crowds grow. The bar always appears to very lively. Open Table makes booking a table Quick & easy."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 13 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Consistently very good, but beware.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Francesca's in Barrington is always a good choice and rarely disappoints. My main issue was with our server. She was knowledgeable and accommodating, offering us wine samples when we were undecided. What really irked us was when taking our dinner orders, she would ask what type of salad we'd like, house or caesar, as if the salad came with our entree. She didn't inform us that salad and soup were not part of the entree until someone in our group asked. By this time, most of our group had ordered either salad or soup. This is not good business. I don't know if the servers are told by management to do this, or if it was just our waitress who thought she was clever. I will dine here again but I will certainly not be served by her."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, great for lunch
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Review 14 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

What did you say?

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"So loud, we couldn't hear a word being said at our own table. Wait staff kept bumping into our chairs while rushing around. When we left it felt like we were leaving a rock concert, ear drums vibrating. Might be worth a try on a weeknight."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
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Review 15 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

As always, another great night

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"As always, another great night at Francesca's Famiglia! I love to be remembered and greeted warmly at the bar even though I'm not a "regular." New menu items are always worth a try - never disappointed."
Dined on 04/10/2013
 2010
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Review 16 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Loved the online booking.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Loved the online booking. Wish doctors offices had that"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 17 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

food and service excellent.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"food and service excellent. very fresh and made to individual order. we loved it."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2011
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 18 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great service and food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We usually go to the Dundee Francesca's and decided to try another location. We were quite pleased with this location; it's larger, has a bigger bar and the service was very attentive. It was great to be able to maneuver between tables without having to excuse ourselves or bump into people.
My husband had the special of trout w/ roasted tomatoes and spinach. I had the mushroom ravioli. Both were delicious. We do think the drink prices are too high; $9 for house wine is absurd, but I realize that's where they make their money. We'll be back."
Dined on 03/26/2013
 2009
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Review 19 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food is excellent, just like

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food is excellent, just like all other Rrancesca's restaurants. Lots of room in this restaurant, so can enjoy a quiet private evening. Kid friendly menu!"
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, scenic view
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Review 20 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Went because the last time

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went because the last time we had their wonderful homemade ravioli that looked like tortellini. I bragged about how great they were and they didn't offer the same item this time around. The ravioli that they offered (March Madness) didn't offer regular cheese ravioli which was a bad decision. Service took so long to get food both times I have been there. Not sure if going back."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2009
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Review 21 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointing

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A disappointing dinner at a restaurant that we've enjoyed in the past. The scallops were fishey and not a all fresh. The Lobster Ravioli was conspicoulsy absent of Lobster. The only highlight was the bread and salad. All in all, see no need to go again."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2006
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Review 22 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

very good food and wine selection

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"very good food and wine selection at an affordable price!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic
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Review 23 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great pasta, delish desserts

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great pasta, delish desserts and good service. A little loud for the older guests.."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2008
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 24 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food; Too noisy

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had an good experience for a group of 10 for a birthday party. Our table on a Saturday night was ready at 7:15 per our reservation time. The food was excellent overall, especially the pasta and clams. The appetizers and salads were excellent also. Two points: They seated our table of 10 directly next to another large group of people, which made the order taking, serving very awkward for the servers as the squeezed by the people seated on the common side. Also, it was too noisy in our area of the restaurant."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 25 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We met late and closed the place, but they never once made us feel like we had to rush. Everyone treated us like they valued our being there, from the host to the waitstaff and everyone in between. Food is wonderful and the dining area has a warm, relaxing atmosphere."
Dined on 03/14/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 26 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very good quality food & good

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very good quality food & good service.The veal medallions were wonderfully prepared and decent portions."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 27 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Birthday celebration spot!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
"I took a friend for a birthday celebration --- he loved the food. The ambience, and the special dessert!"
Dined on 03/11/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 28 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food and great fun!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food and great fun! This place is top notch."
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 29 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Enjoyed our time! Aaron Nunag

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Enjoyed our time! Aaron Nunag went out of his way to accommodate us."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 30 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We will DEFINITELY go here

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We will DEFINITELY go here again!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 31 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A wonderful neighborhood restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A wonderful neighborhood restaurant with lots of charm and great food. Indoor parking is also a nice treat on winter nights."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 32 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a wonderful time.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had a wonderful time. This was our first time at this Francesca's. We would definitely go back. Great way to celebrate Valentine's Day!"
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 33 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Been many times. Reasonable

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Been many times. Reasonable prices. Love it."
Dined on 02/26/2013
 2009
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, great for lunch
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Review 34 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fantastic!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was spectacular! I know you are big on wines but a nice selection (written) of martinis would be nice!"
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 35 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Yum!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took my husband on a date to Francescas and we had a great time. It sits next to a warm parking garage and is a short elevator ride to the restaurant. The service is fast and friendly. The prices reflect the delicious food, but in my opinion, are worth every penny. I can't wait to go again."
Dined on 02/15/2013
 2012
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 36 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A neighborhood staple in Barrington

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I came here on Valentine's Day. Despite it being super busy and a delay for seating for people with reservations the staff at the restaurant made everyone feel special. The food was good as usual and they added some nice Valentine's Day theme items. My husband enjoyed the heart shaped ravioli. The Manager came by at the end with homeade Lemoncelli that was delicious."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2006
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 37 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

We had 7:30 reservations on

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had 7:30 reservations on Valentine's Day. Didn't get seated until 8:00 with no apology for the wait. It was almost 15 minutes before our server came to our table for the first time. We ordered and the food was there in 20 minutes. Our serve never stopped to see how our food was even though he walked by us many times. Another server cleared our plates when we had finished eating. While we were waiting to order dessert her brought our check (because he never asked if we wanted dessert)... so we went elsewhere for dessert. If I hadn't been here before on a "normal" weekday evening I would never return. But since I had experienced it at it's best, I will not completely rule it out."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2010
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Review 38 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

I love this place however,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I love this place however, we went on Valentines weekend and the service was horrible."
Dined on 02/15/2013
 2008
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Review 39 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Food, service and ambiance.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great Food, service and ambiance. Really enjoyed our evening."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 40 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We visited Francesca's for

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We visited Francesca's for Valentines Day. We had a 6:30 reservation and were seated by 6:35. We ordered a bottle of wine and enjoyed the warm bread with olive oil and parmesan cheese. We finished our bottle of wine and finally were served our meal at 8:00 pm. The restaurant was very busy but there was a great deal of confusion with the servers. We were served the wrong meal twice before they brought out the correct meal. The meals we were served were intended for other tables. We finally left the restaurant at 8:45. We have visited this restaurant many times and enjoy this restaurant but will probably not visit them on a special occasion day again."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2005
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 41 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Fun, Lively Place, Tasty Food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Seated for an early Valentines Day dinner the restaurant filled quickly we were happy to have arrived at our 5pm reservation by 6pm people were standing in the lobby and the bar was full. Food was very tasty and nicely prepared. The tables are close together so diners should expect to enjoy close seating when the restaurant is busy. The music for the evening was somewhat annoying as it was more of a "bee-bop/rock" lunch style selection. We did request the host to put something more appropriate for the evening but that never happened. I think the rather youthful staff (20's early 30's) likes their particular music rather than what would be considered tasteful for the evening dining. Service slowed as tables filled. Overall good experience."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2005
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 42 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Noisy, food marginal, again

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
"Noisy, food marginal, again and service terrible"
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2011
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Review 43 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

This has a nice neighborhood

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This has a nice neighborhood feel to it, the menu is very interesting, the food is very fresh. Nice bar, but it gets almost too crowded during prime time when people are waiting for their table. We will definitely go back!"
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 44 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We have been to Francesca's

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We have been to Francesca's in Barrington several times, so we enjoy the restaurant. This visit was Valentine's Day, so it was busy and noisy. The food was good but not great. We had Chicken Salvia, gnocchi and heart-shaped ravioli and it was all good-tasting and prepared correctly. I don't recall dessert but we ate it up. The service was a little slow due to the busy environment, so this wasn't unexpected."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 45 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Food was decent. Very loud

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was decent. Very loud and tables are bunch near each other, so you have to be careful pulling out your chair. A waiter almost fell over a customer. Lol. Anyway, nothing to brag about.."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2013
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Review 46 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent food, excellent

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent food, excellent service, great place for family or a date."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 47 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Job as Always

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"As always, Francesca's Famiglia does an excellent job in quality of food and service. On their special menu, they had a wonder entree, but I requested it with veal instead of rib eye and they, as always have some in the kitchen. They are always willing to modify anything you see on the menu."
Dined on 02/08/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 48 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Favorite Place

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our favorite place in Barrington for fine dining. Great food, attentive service. Never had a bad experience here."
Dined on 02/09/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 49 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Bland and Noisy

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was very bland. Ordered soup and never received it. Ordered bruschetta and received the wrong version. The food just wasnn't flavorful. Ordered a sausage and pasta dish, which was extremely bland. Pizza was mediocre and again lacked flavor. We had been to this restaurant for a private party and it was quiet and service was very good. We will never go back again. The restaurant was so noisy you could barely carry on a conversation."
Dined on 02/08/2013
 2010
Special Features: kid-friendly
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Review 50 for Francesca's Famiglia
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious Food!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We really liked the Pre-fix lunch!"
Dined on 02/04/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for lunch
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