Frank Sinatra’s Favorite Foods: Discover Ol’ Blue Eyes’ Iconic Dishes
Uncover Frank Sinatra’s favorite foods, from Veal Milanese to his mother’s famous Marinara Sauce. Explore the dishes Ol’ Blue Eyes couldn’t resist and recreate them at home!
Introduction
Frank Sinatra, famously known as “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” was not only a musical icon but also a man who deeply appreciated good food. Throughout his life, Sinatra’s palate remained consistent, often leaning toward simple yet flavorful Italian dishes that reminded him of his heritage. His love for food was so profound that certain restaurants knew exactly how to prepare his favorite meals to his exact liking. Let’s dive into Frank Sinatra’s favorite food choices and discover what the legendary singer loved to indulge in.
Frank Sinatra’s Most Favorite Food
When it comes to Frank Sinatra’s absolute favorite food, Veal Milanese tops the list. This classic Italian dish, featuring thinly pounded veal cutlets breaded and fried to perfection, was something Sinatra enjoyed regularly. However, it had to be prepared just right—thin enough to please his palate. His favorite restaurant, Patsy’s in New York, made sure to prepare it just the way he liked it, making it one of his go-to meals whenever he dined there.
Unveiling Sinatra’s Culinary Choices in Detail
Frank Sinatra, the legendary crooner known for his smooth voice and timeless songs, also had a deep love for food—particularly Italian cuisine. While his music captivated the world, his favorite dishes offer a glimpse into the simple, hearty meals that fueled his extraordinary life. If you’re curious about “Frank Sinatra’s Favorite Food,” you’re in the right place! Let’s take a closer look at the meals that Sinatra adored.
1. Veal Milanese
Frank Sinatra had a particular fondness for Veal Milanese—but only when the veal was pounded very thin. This classic Italian dish, often served at his favorite restaurant, Patsy’s in New York, was a go-to for the singer. The tender veal, breaded and fried to a golden crisp, made it a signature dish for Sinatra, who enjoyed it with simplicity and flair.
2. Marinara Sauce
Sinatra loved his mother’s recipe for marinara sauce so much that he had it bottled and sold in the 1980s. This sauce, made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, was a staple in his kitchen. His love for a classic pasta dish with marinara sauce was well-known, and it was one of the most requested meals when dining with friends and family.
3. Patsy’s Fusilli with Anchovies
Although Sinatra didn’t enjoy his food overly garlicky, he had a soft spot for fusilli with anchovies from Patsy’s, a dish seasoned just right to please his palate. The subtle garlic in the dish, mixed with the savory flavor of anchovies, became a well-loved favorite.
4. Eggplant Parmesan
Like any true Italian-American, Sinatra couldn’t resist a well-made Eggplant Parmesan. Known for being one of the few ways he enjoyed eating vegetables, this dish was a perfect balance of crispy fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
5. Scrambled Egg Sandwich
Beyond his love for Italian dishes, Sinatra enjoyed a simple scrambled egg sandwich. Made with fluffy scrambled eggs between slices of bread, this easy comfort food was something he enjoyed in between his performances.
6. Clams Posillipo
Seafood was also a part of Sinatra’s favorites, particularly Clams Posillipo. This Italian seafood dish features clams simmered in a light tomato-basil sauce—a dish Sinatra frequently ordered at Patsy’s, his go-to restaurant.
7. Arugula Salad
While he loved hearty Italian dishes, Sinatra also appreciated simplicity when it came to salads. His favorite was a plain arugula salad, dressed lightly with oil, vinegar, and basil. This fresh and simple dish was often served as a starter for his meals.
8. Lemon Ricotta Torte
Though Sinatra wasn’t big on desserts, he occasionally indulged in a light and refreshing lemon ricotta torte. This Italian dessert was the perfect way to end a meal, with its delicate balance of citrus and creamy ricotta.
9. Martinis and Manhattans
No meal was complete for Sinatra without a good drink. He loved a classic martini or Manhattan, which he often enjoyed alongside his meals. His love for these cocktails became just as iconic as his food preferences.
10. Sunday Sauce
Like many Italian-American families, the Sinatras had a tradition of making Sunday Sauce or “gravy.” This slow-cooked tomato sauce, often served with pasta, was a dish Sinatra grew up with and continued to enjoy throughout his life. It was a family favorite that symbolized love, comfort, and togetherness.
A Taste of Sinatra’s Legacy
From his love for Veal Milanese to his mother’s famous marinara sauce, Frank Sinatra’s favorite foods were a true reflection of his Italian roots and his sophisticated yet simple tastes. Whether dining at Patsy’s or enjoying a home-cooked meal, Sinatra always found comfort in familiar flavors. His favorite meals, much like his music, were timeless classics that continue to inspire fans and food lovers alike.
FAQ’s
What was Frank Sinatra’s favorite Italian dish?
One of Sinatra’s favorite Italian dishes was veal Milanese with eggplant-parmesan sauce, a classic combination showing how much he loved the hearty, flavorful foods of Italy.
How did Sinatra’s Italian heritage influence his food choices?
It is widely believed that Sinatra’s Italian heritage strongly influenced his choice of food, leading him to prefer dishes that have a strong connection to his family and cultural roots.
Can I find Sinatra’s favorite dishes in restaurants today?
In fact, many of Sinatra’s favorite dishes, such as Veal Milanese and Clams Posillipo, are still served in Italian and American-Italian restaurants up until today.
How did Sinatra’s food preferences impact American-Italian cuisine?
The popularity of Italian-American cuisine in the United States was attributed to Sinatra’s preference for it, elevating its status and making it a beloved part of American dining culture as a result.
Are there any cookbooks featuring Sinatra’s favorite recipes?
If you want to relive the flavors that Sinatra loved, what you need to do is purchase a cookbook or go online to find a variety of resources that include Sinatra’s favorite recipes.
Conclusion
A fascinating aspect of Frank Sinatra’s life is his culinary legacy, which provides a glimpse into his tastes as one of America’s most beloved entertainers. Sinatra’s love for Italian cuisine as well as his impact on American dining culture are celebrated by preserving the dishes he cherished. The continued celebration of Sinatra’s life through food ensures that generations to come will continue to enjoy his legacy.
