106 THE COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE • Early Summer 2018 TheCoastalBend.com Frank’s Spaghetti House Post World War II Corpus Christi was certainly a different era—when no one but an Italian would open an Italian restaurant, and in 1947 when Frank’s opened west of downtown every recipe and every ingredient was genu- ine to classic country Italian cuisine, passed down for gen- erations starting in the motherland. Seventy years later, virtually nothing has changed at this local treasure, still in its two-story, red brick house that the family’s new gen- eration knows as home. Classic dishes include spaghetti with meatballs, irresistible lasagna, and chicken Parmesan that is arguably the best in town. Wine and beer served, as well as terrific desserts. 2724 Leopard St. (361) 882-0075 • $$ Frank’s Saltwater Grill Saltwater Grill This establishment has earned its place among the very best seafood restaurants in the entire Coastal Bend, let alone the south side of Corpus Christi. Almost every variety of seafood cooking, except maybe sushi, can be found here, and it is all done very well using high qual- ity, fresh product. Starters range from fried calamari and crab cakes, to ceviche and seared tuna—and we have found the biggest and freshest raw oysters at Salt- water Grill. Fish and shrimp are prepared char grilled or fried, and signature dishes Mahi Mahi Alto Cocina topped with blue crab and avocado, Teriyaki Grilled Salmon, and Crab Stuffed Flounder. Landlubbers will love their hand cut Angus steaks and homemade des- serts include the exceedingly famous Te“Key”La Lime Pie. 2401 Cimarron Blvd. • (361) 993-7258 SaltWaterGrillCC.com • $$$ Hester’s Hester’s Cafe & Bakery Hester’s has stood as a consistent local favorite for over a decade, and has expanded in recent years to the delight of regulars and visitors. In addition to creative cooking for lunch, dinner and in the bakery, Hester’s is known for high quality, generous portions and friendly service at all three locations. Baked goods are made from scratch daily and selections change on a regular basis depend- ing on season and, presumably, the mood of the chef! Enjoy wonderful homemade quiche options that include the Monterrey with Canadian Bacon and green chiles, the Classic with chicken, broccoli and mushrooms, and