Frank Scardamaglia’s new burger bar opens in Melbourne

Hospitality veteran Frank Scardamaglia, formerly of Melbourne’s 400 Gradi, has announced the opening of his own burger bar project in Brunswick East.

Meat Frankie is the product of a two-year burger tour of North America that Scardamaglia undertook when he lived in Toronto, Canada. The concept behind the new Melbourne venue is to offer classic American-style burgers, hot dogs, fries and shakes as part of a highly customisable menu.

Meat Frankie customers will have the option to stack beef patties as high as they like on the venue’s signature potato rolls, and then to create their own personalised burger by choosing from a smorgasbord of toppings.

On the menu will also be a classic American chili dog, made using Scardamaglia’s homemade chili recipe; and cheesy bacon fries topped with cheddar, Monterey Jack, four-cheese mix and smoked bacon.

“Secret” menu items, such as a ‘Fried Chicken Friday’ sandwich, will be unveiled regularly.

In keeping with the theme of Americana, the venue itself is a nod to the retro diners that are ubiquitous across the North American continent. The fit-out features vintage tiled floors, a central counter, luminescent signage and booth seating.

“I’m a burger fanatic, so this really is the ideal dream start-up,” says Scardamaglia. “I’ve put together all of the things that I wanted to see in a burger place, and the result is my tribute to the classic American burger joint, with a no-fuss all about the taste approach.”

Meat Frankie is now open at 93-97 Lygon Street, Brunswick East.