Wanted Italian and came across this place. Restaurant has the air of being a fancy restaurant, but the food is mediocre at best. Ordered chicken Alfredo and sauce tasted nothing like Alfredo. Still trying to figure it out. It's like they are trying to put a spin of their own on the dishes and it's not working. Another orders the flat bread pizza and the pepperonis were just tossed on in blobs and the crust was undercooked. read more

The atmosphere was nice and we enjoyed the train coming through town while we were dining. The price was reasonable. The waitresss was great! She was amazing and was patient with our large group! The pasta came out luke warm, but tasted fine. A great place to take a large group for celebrations! read more

While in Frankfort on business, this is a great lunch business spot. Frankfort is a very walkable downtown with several excellent choices but this one is ideal for business lunch as it has an easy to decide menu, friendly courteous staff and quiet atmosphere that encourages conversation vs. distraction. I had two lunches here during my trip to Frankfort, I really enjoyed the Kentucky Hot Brown. This is a heavy meal with tons of artery clogging ingredients but so good for relaxing and diving into a comfort meal. My colleague enjoyed a patty melt but asked for gluten free option with lettuce instead of bun. They were extremely accommodating and he raved about the burger. My second lunch was a Turkey Ruben, recommended by a local. I'd pass on this option next time as Turkey and Ruben are not a marriage made in heaven. read more

Train wreck. They really could not have missed the mark more. We ordered eggplant parm. It took a full hour for the manager (?) to come inform us that they were out of eggplant. My wife ordered chicken alfredo on penne, it came on linguine. My salmon had obviously sat under a lamp for some time - dry and not as described. The manager was not at all apologetic and wasn't listening to us. I would avoid this place. read more

Second time visiting the restaurant. Food was excellent as it was before. However, this time the service was VERY slow, especially for a weeknight. read more

What a cute lil Street this restaurant is off of! There was a pretty decent crowd in & out the entire time I was there for a Monday night. I ordered the Pork Chop - the portion was a pretty decent portion! Unfortunately it was over cooked...but combined with the apple chutney was still very tasty! My waitress was extremely nice, I never said anything about the cook on the pork chop. I'd definitely eat here again next time I'm in Frankfort. Nice service and upscale meals! read more

Serafini - Pork chop with apple chutney, southern beans, & jalapeño cornbread - a nice flavor combination! - Italian Near Me - Frankfort, Kentucky

Read some reviews and unfortunately they fell flat. When we called for reservations they sounded like they were overbooked. Upon arrival at least half the restaurant was empty while the place across the street was overflowing and we soon found out why. Our server couldn't pronounce the ingredients in the specials and that was the start of the debacle. I ordered the blackened salmon which arrived blackened. All the way through. Like a hockey puck. We notified the server who at first didn't seem to understand that salmon shouldn't be overcooked. The chef came to our table and stated he would refire the order. While waiting on the second try we noticed the worn out carpet peeling up in the floor which indicated a lack of pride in ownership. On the second try the fish was not blackened but grilled with half the amount of mashed potatoes as the original. The salmon was more like sashimi and if the chef oversaw this dish being refired Gordon Ramsay would have fired him. Overpriced and disappointing. Next time follow the crowd away from this disappointment. read more

A group of us went for my birthday. It was our first visit. We all enjoyed our meal. The service was excellent. Definitely will go back

delicious and beautiful atmosphere bottle of wine and pasta couldn't be happier service was wonderful and food came out fast! read more

Food was super good, service is great, and the bartender Carlos is amazing!!! We highly recommend!!! read more

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We had a gift certificate at this restaurant, had never eaten there before. We had guest with us from another town. The area was nice, the food was good, the jazz band was relaxing and the waitress was excellent. We spent over $150 for the meal, and presented the $50 gift certificate along with the check. Though the gift certificate had no expiration date on it and the name of the restaurant was the same, the management had changed which we didn't know, so they would not honor the certificate. It was upsetting to know that even though the management had changed, but they kept the name of the restaurant they would not honor the certificate which brought us there in the first place. Though we enjoyed the food and the service it's doubtful we'll be back. read more

We made reservations for two and arrived on time. The wait staff was very gracious, had our reservation and was waiting for us. Our drinks were on time, exactly as we had ordered and very tasty. Dinner was different. Her salmon on risotto was dry with not much flavor. My grilled shrimp on fettuccine was also dry. So dry that I wondered if they had really cooked the noodles in water. And the shrimp was cooked, maybe boiled, but not close to grilled. So the flavor was very bland and very ordinary. Everything is a la carte so a salad is extra. And we weren't offered bread. But bread didn't really matter since there was no au jus from the pasta. I've been to Serafini before but mostly for lunch which is usually fine. This was only my second time for dinner and I was disappointed both times. I may go back but not before looking for alternatives. I wanted to give it two stars but the staff's skill and professionalism upgraded my review. read more

Food and service were good, great ambiance.reasonable price would go back if I'm town

Dinner last night had its up and downs. No cocktail menu but the appetizer and Chicken Parm was good. Pizza however was well undercooked and we did not eat it. Wouldn't recommend but as a tourist stop. read more

Should have listened to the reviews. So so disappointed by this overpriced excuse for an Italian restaurant. Would never EVER recommend this place. read more

The bartender poured a drink back into the bottle! Just no! They even has a funnel so they must do it frequently

As we recently relocated to Frankfort and have been exploring our little town, we came across this lovely little Italian restaurant. The owner Carlos recently took it over but had previously worked at the restaurant for 14 years. Extremely cordial and served us our meal which was excellent! My husband had his first Kentucky hot brown of which he stated was delicious! Go enjoy this restaurant highly recommend! read more

Everything that I have ever eaten from here is top notch. The service is top notch as well. This is the perfect place to take your friends, family or date. If you have social anxiety, this is a good place for going out in a group (not alone). read more

We went last night and just found it to be blah. We called to make a reservation and were told we could be been seated at 6. No problem. We showed up. The place was barren. We were seated and waited 10 minutes for our waitress to show up who brought us glasses of water and asked what we wanted to eat. Um... no greeting. No offer to get us drinks. I stopped her and said we'd like to start with a drink. Our food came out ok, the flavor was subpar. It was very salty and most looked and felt as if it had been microwaved. When leaving we noticed all tables around us had been given bread. We never got the offer. Also as we were leaving we heard another waiter give the specials, again not an option. Our waitress just made us feel more like a burden. read more

This place was fabulous! So much so that we ate there 2 nights in a row. Yummy . We both ordered the specials one night , but tonight had chicken tetrazzini and I had a chicken /polenta dish w broccolini that was fabulous . Highly recommend!!! read more

Dear Serafini, First of all, thank you for existing in Frankfort! Without your fine establishment, my husband and I would have to drive back to Louisville or further up the highway to Midway for such high quality food. I cannot rave enough for your Risotto del Giorno. As such, I must confess I'm one of those patrons personifying Sally (Meg Ryan) with each bite. Prior to trying the risotto, I had ordered everything on your seasonal menus that were GF or could be made GF, but since this dish is always different (and gluten free) I'm hard pressed to go back to the Salmon, pork chops, etc. Stay classy! Sincerely, K As for the rest of my review, Serafini is perfectly situated directly across from the state government buildings in what is referred to as St. Clair Mall. Their corner location allows for outside dining during the warmer months. Downtown Frankfort seems very dog friendly and at Serafini your four legged friends will be greeted with bowls of water (to include ice-HA!). Serafini also has a sister restaurant, Portofino, in Lexington. We have become quite acquainted with some of Serafini's wait staff. The friendlier and more down to Earth you are, the more comfortable they are in return but nonetheless you will receive GREAT service. Lastly, you know when you stumble upon something great and you want to share it with your friends?!?! Well, sometimes I'm a bit delayed in sharing with the Yelp community but that's probably because I'm roping in others for a visit. Over the past year we have toasted with many loved ones celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, new job opportunities, a proverbial 'bun in the oven' and even started a Christmas Eve tradition. Need more reasons to visit Serafini? How about celebrating the beginning of a long work week and/or the end of a long work week! You don't have to 'get all gussied up' - Casual attire is also welcomed. No matter the reason, you'll be greeted with a smile and find yourself full of delicious food and drink in no time... but do take your time. You won't regret your Serafini experience! By the way, that diner scene from 'When Harry Met Sally' was related to food, right? Right? ;) read more

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Passing through town, I went to this place keeping in mind what another reviewer commented below -- that this is what passes as "fine dining" in Frankfort. I wasn't looking for "fine dining." I have just been here for a few nights now and wanted something other than the Mexican place near my hotel. But, sadly, this place was pretty awful. I should have stuck with the Mexican joint, where at least I would have gotten what I expected, and would have paid a fair price for it. Here, my bill (for a diner of one) was close to $40. What did I get? * A salad that had far too much dressing on it, making it too bitter to enjoy. * A pasta dish with far too much sauce on it. I'm not THAT picky or healthy, but still, I found myself scraping the pesto cream sauce off of the noodles before eating them. (Please see the irony in that sentence -- I am clearly not all that interested in eating healthy, as I did order the pasta with pesto cream sauce. And yet, despite my pre-disposition to saucy, creamy foods, it was too much.) The bread was chewy. In a been-microwaved bad way. In fact, I felt that my dish had been nuked before being taken to my table. Oh, and to boot? The guy who is apparently maybe the manager or owner? When I walked in the place -- at 5:30 pm, before the restaurant really picked up for the evening -- there was no host or hostess to greet me. I stood in the foyer, not for an excessive amount of time -- maybe one minute is all. But it was all very unclear -- a large man was the very embodiment of sauntering as he approached me. He was so nonchalant about approaching me, and his dress belied any association with the restaurant, that I assumed he was a fellow diner. No, apparently he either owns or runs the place. And he could not have cared less about my happiness, or about presenting the restaurant well. I don't even think he greeted me, just said "One?" Then, not even a basic courtesy of "this way" or "follow me." To be fair, I was put out from the onset because of this. But, the food did not make up for his haughty attitude. It was sub-par. And, as mentioned in an earlier review, this is not big city attitude coming to you. I am from a farm town, and would have at one point in my life been scared to be in a town the size of Frankfort. This is about quality. You can be from a small town and still not want to die of a heart attack before you are 50. Apparently, not in Frankfort, where even the cream-sauce dishes are coated in salty cream sauce. read more

I was staying in Frankfort with my girlfriend this past weekend and we decided to have dinner at Serafini one night. We looked it up on Yelp and it seemed to be a pretty decent Italian place. Had a pretty good experience. Waiter was really nice and accommodating. We didn't really get the vibe it was an 'Italian' restaurant though. Menu had a decent variety of dishes. We got the pretzel and beer cheese as an app. They also give you bread and butter too. For dinner we got the two specials of the day. She got short rib risotto with asparagus and I got some type of exotic 'ramen'. It was a noodle dish with strips of fried chicken, mushrooms, carrots, nuts, and it was suppose to have a fried egg in it but they happened to forget it. No big deal. The dish was still good. It was a decent place. One of the better places in Frankfort read more

Serafini - Ramen - Italian Near Me - Frankfort, Kentucky

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Wine selection is not on par with a white tablecloth restaurant. Skip the appetizer and salad. Meatballs had the texture of a frozen store bought meatball and the croutons on the Caesar salad tasted weird. The main course (pork chop and risotto) were delicious but we were shocked to find that the risotto (listed as market price) was $50! Service was good and atmosphere was nice but overall not worthy of the cost or 4 star+ review. read more

There were 4 of us for an early dinner during the week. Waiter was polite, food was awful. All dishes were overcooked. Between the 4 of us, we had shrimp and grits, spaghetti with meat sauce and chicken. Dishes were slow to come out. Meals were pricey. Save your money read more

Updated review- Ordered the French onion burger for lunch and it came out med rare. After taking a bite then cutting it in half, I sent it back. The same patty was returned 15 mins later blackened and on a new bun. Yes, the missing bite was still missing. When asked about half eaten food being re-fired all they could say was "I don't cook the food, I just serve it". Absolutely horrible service and mediocre food. read more

Serafini - Italian Near Me - Frankfort, Kentucky

I was a little hesitant after reading some of the most recent reviews but Serafini's did not disappoint!! We had excellent service from the minute we walked in! Immediately showed to our table with waters to follow. Jarod was our server. I ordered a cocktail and my husband got a bourbon based on the bartenders recommendation and he was pleasantly surprised! We started with the Brie which was DELISH! I could have stopped there! Perfectly melty over a cranberry reduction with crostini's. For a meal, my husband got the lasagna bolognese and I ordered the chicken visuvio. The chicken was probably the best chicken I've ever had. Seared on the outside and moist on the inside with an amazing sauce over potatoes and asparagus. Overall, the meal and service were top notch! read more

Came here on a recent Saturday night after our first two dinning options fell through due to no seating availability. We were a bit desperate at that point. A call ahead let us know there was no wait for seating on a Saturday night around 7. This is a moderately upscale restaurant. I was there with two companions. We started with bruchetta that was a hit. Airy bread, toppings and a delightful cream sauce. My companions' dishes were the shrimp Alfredo and seared scallops. The scallops were by far the best looking dish. Both received thumbs up. I was not that lucky. I ordered a hotbrown, ready for an Italian twist on Louisville's signature dish. Sundried tomatoes? Capocollo? (This hotbrown had ham on it) Crisped pancetta? A fun cheese sauce using an unexpected Italian cheese? None of the above. Ciabatta was the bread used and the Italianess of the dish ended there. It was an unexciting, pedestrian let down. I hope they let the chef give a spin on this for someone else in the future. read more

This was my first time dining at the restaurant. Our reservation was for 6 but had a last minute add of 4 more. The manager was super accommodating so we could all sit together. Waiter was super friendly and provided great service. Food was very good. Several of us had the hot brown sandwich, some had pasta and fresh fish. All excellent. Sorry forgot to take pics. Would highly recommend. read more

Great location near many State buildings and small shopping area. Pretty entrance, friendly staff to greet you as you enter and you see this is a local place to see, be seen, talk politics, etc. Awesome Bourbon selection! probably the largest of any I've seen in Kentucky. Wife ordered the salmon, pesto pasta and it was just as described - enhanced with really good flavors. I ordered the Kentucky Brown Derby Sandwich. My first one and it was very tasty. Sort of like a creamy turkey club sandwich with ham and prosciutto. I couldn't eat that sandwich often due to caloric & fat content but as a treat, this was good! Wife ordered a Sidecar. Tasted a bit different than normal but she drank it all! I ordered some 10 year Bourbon I'd never heard of and got exactly what I wanted - a delicious Bourbon! read more

Great location but don't be fooled that they across from the "Capitol". The inside smells musky so we decided to sit outside. Server was a young man and very polite. We went there for a birthday and were excited from what we saw on the on-line menu. We got there and was given a "New" menu which was severely smaller with nothing appetizing nor the items we were hoping to order. We had already ordered our drinks (do not get the house cabernet) but asked for the check. Server did bring out nice bread and gave recommendations for restaurants in Midway, KY which we went to and enjoyed. Over promised and under delivered. I suggest you update your menus. Will not try to come back until we know the real story. read more

I had the Serafini $14, Beef burger, with Sauteed mushrooms, topped with swiss cheese. My beef burger was burnt the mushrooms were tiny and overcooked there was so little cheese it melted into the beef burger and you could hardly see it. I don't know what was going on with the cook, but he/she sure did not like me. I have never had such a terrible hamburger all my travels which have been extensive in my 82 year life. The waiter offered a comp, which I refused, I was so angry. Now I wish I had taken it. The only reason I give this restaurant the three stars because my daughter and granddaughter were with me and they like the food and the drinks were very good. Daughter had a pasta/ham dish and Granddaughter had roast pork. PS I am also sending this review to the restaurants website. read more

The cuisine at Serafini's is exceptional, fresh and full of flavor! The Fried White Fish was fresh and delicious including the lettuce and tomato and egg bun that was nicely toasted. The Pimento Cheese Burger with the fried pickles was a bit naughty since it encompassed components of foods many of us are avoiding, but was so amazing! I'll be thinking about this burger tonight! Serafini's is worth the drive if you don't live in the area. read more

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We had a really great experience here, and learned that locals don't order cocktails...it's always straight bourbon neat or on the rocks. The bartender had a dry sense of humor, that totally worked for him and my husband and I split the carbonara pasta which was delicious! Go, and just remember - bourbon straight ;) read more

We were all hungry and had to eat before our first bourbon tasting of the day. Although the service was slow (kitchen probably) the food here was excellent, servings were small(ish) but good quality - and the hot bread brought to the table was a life saver and filled every one up! Cloth table coverings and napkins were a nice touch. We did manage to make our time slot at the distillery - so all ended well! Highly recommend! read more

Great place! Food was very good. The waitress that we had was awesome. She was friendly, attentive, and genuinely sweet. Location is relaxed and interesting. Will be back the next time I am in Frankfort. read more

Serafini - Italian Near Me - Frankfort, Kentucky

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The food was subpar for the cost. Soup was too salty. The meatloaf was flavorful but meal was luke warm. Need to re-evaluate presentation of food. Could be a nice restaurant if paying attention to the details. read more

A nice place to eat in downtown Frankfort. Lunch prices range from $8-$15, most lunch items like my Rustic Pizza are $12. My pizza was excellent and a lot of food for lunch, although I did end up eating the whole thing:). I will definitely return, it's a nice place in the mid price range. read more

Upscale ambiance in downtown Frankfort. The food was great. We had green fried tomatoes as an appetizer which were crisp and topped with pimento cheese. We had lasagna, which was very good and a large portion, and a white fish risotto feature. The risotto was cooked perfectly and was not heavy or too creamy. The fish was very flavorful too. The reason for four stars is that the cocktail game could be upped. I ordered an old-fashioned with Woodford and I'm pretty sure that I got a Manhattan with cloudy ice and a maraschino cherry. A few tweaks and they could have a good bar program in the heart of bourbon country. Give it a try and I don't think you'll be disappointed, just be specific about your cocktail request. We would return without hesitation. read more

We were with my father in law. This menu was refined and rustic with interesting items such as bison meatloaf. read more

Serafini - Italian Near Me - Frankfort, Kentucky