Lokal Babes | Gio + Fran’s
WORDS: Stef Richardson + PHOTOS: Alyssa Joline Photography
What started as a clog vlog love affair has turned into a total friendship. I can’t get enough of Fran. From her contagious and vibrant laugh, her drool worthy eats and her passion for cooking + people - she’s the total package. Fran is co-owner of an amazing little Italian restaurant in Meaford called Gio + Frans. Decked out with a new patio, it’s the perfect spot to sip on an aperol spritz and enjoy some of Fran’s home cooking. Always creating from the heart, Fran’s menu is ever-changing on the stand up chalkboard which keeps things fun and in-season.
I suggest ordering multiple dishes so you can truly experience all of Gio + Fran’s. You’ll leave with a full belly and a full heart, trust me. Simple and quality ingredients are what makes this place so special.
Check her out on Instagram for menu updates + read on for a Q+A with Fran for more of the goods.
FRAN // CO-OWNER OF GIO + FRAN’S
Q+A
How would you describe the food you cook?
Fran: Italian inspired based on working with my long time friend Gio who is from Bari. We've had wonderful journeys to Italy together mostly in Le Marche region, specifically Ascoli Piceno which is part of my heartbeat now. The food is simple, the ingredients simple....fresh is everything! Don't over complicate, take the time and use good wine and olive oil!!
You've got the kitchen, tunes are blasted - what are you listening to?
Fran: I love all music. I love to dance and sing when I'm cooking as well. I'm an eighties chick so I LOVE it all truly! Lately when I’m making gnocchi, it's been Depeche Mode. I love AC/DC, The Cure, INXS. If I'm feeling melancholy I'll likely be belting out some Whitney Houston while I'm crying in my Tuscan bean and Sausage soup. After some time in the fetal position and having had some shots of Grappa, I recover while tenderizing meat and switch to the nineties with some of Alanis' Jagged Little Pill album.
What's your favourite ingredient to cook with and why?
Fran: I love truffles!
What's the best party you've ever been to and what made it special?
Fran: Best party....would have to be when I lived in London. I had just turned 21 and was living there with my boyfriend at the time...there have been so many! (NOT). We were invited to this house party and the host was a Chef to Charles and Diana at Kensington Palace. The food was incredible and the party went on all night...danced, drank champagne and laughed so, so hard I can't even tell you. Cab ride home watching the sun come up on the Kings Road...magical, magical night.
What was your favourite childhood meal? Who cooked it?
Fran: My Macedonian Mom Sophia was an incredible cook. Always a iron pot cooking something delicious on the stove. Oxtail stew...hands down my fave...it's on my menu periodically...watch for it.
What was your favourite clog vlog?
Fran: I love you and your clogging that's why you're doing a show soon at my restaurant (Fran wishes lol). I LOVE all your Clog Vlogs ~ they lifted me up during COVID. I'm going have to say #2 LOVE Tears for Fears and that 80’s ski suit....effing priceless!!! Thank for these videos...you lift spirits dear girl....always create!!
What do you love about living in Meaford?
Fran: I've been coming to Meaford since I was a kid. I love the drive into the quaint town, the architecture, the bay, the trails, the farming community, the amazing artists that Meaford houses, the music...can we talk about the incredible musicians in Meaford? I love the undeniable heartbeat of this town, it's simple, it's real and Meaford is so, so beautiful.
RICOTTA GNOCCHI
LOKAL DIGS // STEF
What top 2 dishes are a must try at your restaurant?
Fran: Wild Boar Ribs and Duck Risotto!
LOKAL SUGGESTIONS - sweet potato frites (YUM), ricotta gnocchi, warm figs + gorgonzola or the meatball sammie.
You can visit Fran Wednesday - Sunday in Meaford from 10-2 (Mercato - European Sangwiches + italian pantry items) or for Dinner 5-9pm unless we’re parting and then we go hard until 9:15pm. Give her a ring at 519-373-1480 or message on Instagram.