The dining room at 195 Franklin is set off from the kitchen by a large buffet cabinet, a few dividers, and a small bar. The tables and chairs are an eclectic mix, ranging from wood and wicker to glass set into wrought iron painted white or green. The service, by Turnbull’s husband and son that evening, was a bit spotty, though very friendly. The Turnbulls hope to have more tables outside on a small deck, once the weather turns warm again, from which diners can view the one-block mural of the Bristol Fourth of July Parade on the building across the street.
For dessert that evening, we had a choice of wine-poached peaches or white-chocolate crème brûlée. We both chose the peaches ($8). Somehow, the poaching made me expect them warm, but they were chilled, and we had to ask for the accompanying almond biscotti listed in the menu. Nonetheless, the wine sauce was delicious, as were the biscotti.
If you’re a conservative diner, wishing to know exactly what you might find on the menu, 195 Franklin might not be the place for you. But if you’re an adventurous type and you trust chef Thomas’s best instincts (as we did), you should lean back and enjoy a luxurious cocktail or a goblet of wine (16 whites and 12 reds by the glass) while you study the menu. And don’t hesitate to ask questions. If Lynne’s around, she’ll tell you all you need to know.
195 Franklin, 195 Franklin St, Bristol | Thurs-Sat, 5-9 pm | Major credit cards | Full bar | No Sidewalk-level access | 401.253.9320
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Johnette Rodriguez: johnette.rodriguez@cox.net
