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There’s a new brunch spot drawing crowds in Franklin Square, but it’s not replacing a neighborhood favorite — it is the neighborhood favorite.
The space and concept has just been reimagined by its longtime owner.
Welcome to Franklin & Phoebe Brunchery, which opened in the fall in the longtime home of Alpine, the beloved Greek restaurant run by Teddy Delis for over 40 years.
Delis didn’t sell or step away — he simply transformed his little corner of Franklin Avenue and Hempstead Turnpike.
“It’s not gone,” Delis said. “It’s back, just better.”
The restaurant opened in October after a three-month renovation of Alpine.
How it happened
Delis immigrated from Greece at 16, speaking no English and washing dishes in New York restaurants. He worked his way up to cook before going into business for himself with a Lynbrook restaurant in 1979.
He opened Alpine in Franklin Square in 1984.
But when the pandemic hit, staffing shortages and changing tastes pushed him to reimagine things.
“We needed a new direction,” he said.
His son, now the restaurant’s chef, helped develop the updated menu, and the elder Delis personally taste-tested every dish before it went live.
“When we were doing the renovations, everyone would go around and say ‘Teddy sold the place,’” Delis said. “People would come to the door when we were closed to see what was happening.”
So he stayed visible during the entire rebrand, waving to neighbors and chatting with curious regulars.
And even now, if he’s gone for a day?
“People always ask, ‘Where’s Teddy? Is he alright?’” he said with a laugh.
If you go
Above: Fig & Prosciutto Toast at Franklin & Phoebe Brunchery (Facebook)
Franklin & Phoebe Brunchery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Inside, you’ll find a fresh new look — think bright décor, modern art and lively energy — but the warm welcome remains the same.
The menu is packed with brunch favorites, including cheesy omelets, avocado toast, chicken and waffles, egg Benedicts and breakfast burritos. Don’t miss the gourmet pancakes or baklava, and if you’re celebrating, try a lavender mimosa or another signature cocktail.
Delis said the menu has brought in a younger crowd, with lines often stretching out the door on weekends and wait times hitting 90 minutes.
Still, he’s just as focused on hospitality as ever. Every customer gets a lollipop on their way out — a tradition that’s lasted decades.
One young boy who always took a lollipop grew up, graduated college and still stops by for brunch (and candy).
“It’s a family restaurant. We’re a family,” Delis said.
Photo credits: Franklin & Phoebe Brunchery on Facebook
