About Us
I have been in the restaurant business all my life. I was recruited off the fishing docks to scrub pots and pans at age fifteen. I was born in Brooklyn, NY and grew up on the south shore of Long Island. The end of my first shift scrubbing pots and pans for the Chefs, I was in love!
I have worked in many restaurants until after one semester at Saint Joseph’s College I felt it necessary to serve my country with the U.S. Navy Submarines. After discharge, I got right back to restaurants here in CT. No regrets!
I cooked at many local restaurants until I followed my calling to Johnson and Wales University where I studied Culinary Arts. Shortly after completion of my studies, I opened my first sandwich shop in New London, CT.
I stayed in New London, learning the ropes of small business ownership for almost eight years.
In 2002 I opened Frank’s Gourmet Grille in East Lyme and ran with it for ten years. While running that business I was asked to cater the food service at Black Hall Golf Club in Old Lyme. If that weren’t enough, I bought, remodeled and opened the old Constantine’s in Niantic. I renamed it Main Street Grille in Niantic.
We had a short but great run there and decided to accept an unexpected offer to purchase the restaurant. I sold with the intention to find a smaller place where I can again concentrate on great food, friendly and professional staff and a clean, comfortable, inviting ambiance.
Well, I found it. Frank’s Gourmet Grille in Mystic is born. I look forward to providing you with an exceptional dining experience for many years to come.
I know there are many choices of restaurants out there but I hope we win all of you over to support my love and passion.
Any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to ask to speak with me at the restaurant.
Thank you again and I look forward to serving you many times over.
– Chef Francis (Frank) Grace
