Franciska is a small gastronomic project in the heart of Portland’s Old Port. At its core, it embraces Maine’s bounty and the changing seasons.

Our intimate 20-seat space gives owner Alejandro Marchesini and Executive Chef Rudi Schnetzer the freedom to play with food and wine and develop a style of cooking that is very much our own. Our cuisine is rooted in Argentine gastronomy and its deep Spanish and Italian influences, interpreted through the ingredients and seasons of Maine.

We are far from a traditional Argentine restaurant. While we respect tradition and often find inspiration in classic dishes, we also believe in creativity and cooking the food that makes us happy in our kitchen. The menu is constantly evolving, driven by the seasons and by our relationships with local farmers, fishermen, and producers. Supporting our local food network is not a trend for us; it is simply part of how we choose to cook and operate.

Above all, Franciska is a neighborhood restaurant run by hospitality professionals. We care more about what happens inside our dining room than how things look on social media. We want the food to be thoughtful, the wine to be interesting, and our guests to feel genuinely taken care of.

And finally, we are wine lovers. Our wines by the glass pay homage to the diversity of Argentina and South American viticulture, while our bottle list looks further afield, with a carefully curated selection focused primarily on small European producers.