Steve Fiske
Former Infantry Sgt.
Frankie’s Patriot BBQ is a tribute to Cpl. Frankie Robert
Gross who was killed in action in Afghanistan on July 16,2011.
Cpl. Gross was killed in action as a volunteer on a rescue mission.
“After my son was killed, I just lost interest in working for
corporate America,” his father Craig Gross said, adding, “ there
was a time when I wasn’t sure what I would do”.
What started out as a tribute to his son has become a tribute to
all who have given the ultimate sacrifice or who have worn the
uniform. The interior decor is filled with memories of Frankie and
donations from veterans and others out of respect for Frankie and
his comrades. There is no shortage of photos, flags, buttons, pins,
patches, etc. representing every branch of service.
Corporal Gross’ Army combat uniform is framed on a wall and
there are several photos that are visible throughout the restaurant
of him and other service men.
Despite the tragedy of losing a son, Craig Gross has managed
to move forward with his life and keeping the memory of his beloved
son alive. Frankie’s BBQ is a growing success. A friendly
staff and an array of homemade barbecue sauces have created an
impressive return rate of regular customers. “After only several
weeks of being open”, Gross said, “ the business is doing great”.
The brisket is rumored to be “some of the best in the country”
and the pulled pork often sells out. Alabama Catfish strips and
alligator tail are some other options on the menu. They prepare
St. Louis style and Baby Back ribs, which are rubbed with
Craig’s secret spices and slowly cooked for 4 hours. I was very
impressed with the BBQ lamb the day that I stopped by. Its tasty
sweet flavor was impressive enough add to that a tender, juicy
and unique smoky taste that was “off the charts”. Lamb lovers …
DON’T miss
this! Meat
is also
available
by the
pound.
Some folks
like their
BBQ “dry”
with a dry rub to
give it flavor, others,
like myself enjoy a nice sauce to compliment the tender smoky
meat. Frankie’s has three homemade BBQ sauces from which one
may choose. Each of these has its own character, such as Natalie
(sweet & smoky), Craig’s “Crazy” Sauce which has a little
kick to it and Frankie’s favorite, a”North Carolina vinegar based
sauce”. Try the onion rings and you will find them to be tasty and
crunchy. Lightly breaded they are a very popular appetizer, or the
hush puppies either of these with a chipotle base sauce.
Save some room for the Bread Pudding or Reece’s Pieces Peanut
Brittle Pie. All of the prices are reasonable. Beer is also an option
to go along with the rich smoky fare.
Frankie’s is located at
2364 Keystone Rd., Tarpon Springs, Fl. 34688.
They are open Monday-Saturday 11 AM-8 PM.
They have party platters and can accommodate large groups or
private parties. They are also available for private events.
www.frankiespatriotbbq.com you may also visit their facebook
page. E-mail them at frankiespatriotbbq@gmail.com
727-935-4838 Telephone.
FRANKIE’S BBQ…I SALUTE YOU!
aste of
North Pinellas 8
/www.frankiespatriotbbq.com
link
