Frank's is old school. They have been around forever, essentially. (I grew up just past north…read morecampus, circa 1980s, when it was half cornfields still, and I attended University of Michigan for a professional degree.) They are the quintessential diner in the perfect college town. I would estimate I've eaten there ten times since, say, 1988. The decor exudes the Go Blue spirit. They also have retro knick knacks: a photo of the Three Stooges in cap and gown, saying "Now what?," a vintage Mountain Dew advertising sign, a Scooby Doo mystery van toy model, etc. But if I gave been there for anything other than breakfast, I have forgotten that. So I associate the place with traditional American fare prepared on a griddle, before you start the workday (or classes).
This weekend, my wife and I are passing through town. Last night, she said, where should we eat in the morning. I gave her a few choices. She said, oh, Frank's of course. We had a stranger take a photo of us outside, for old time's sake.
I had corned beef hash, two eggs, hash browns, and toast. My wife had pancakes. Both our dishes were large enough for us to request boxes and a bag. We are set for tomorrow. The corned beef was how I like it: it is not some fancy homemade preparation, but the type out of a can, fried up (I would bet it is in fact homemade, but in the style of out of a can, which is even better). The pancakes are exactly as you would imagine if you grew up in the States and have ever eaten at this type of establishment. We noticed they have specialty versions, such as with peanut butter.
The patrons are a mix. One table was blue collar rank and file, talking about their union and ensuring folks don't steal their jobs. Another table was four college guys, and of the different backgrounds you would hope (I would anyway) come together as equals on a campus, including white, black, and Asian American. The server was friendly, someone who either loves their job or does such a good job presenting that attitude you want to leave a good tip; the chef also was outgoing.
I hope Frank's continues to be around another 40 years. It belongs to a business type that is disappearing everywhere else.