The sudden onset of hunger pains is the leading cause of unfinished novels, canceled duels, and tied soccer matches. Today's deal employs fine Italian cuisine to cut down on unfinished business: for $25, you get $50 worth of gourmet fare at Frankie's Ristorante in Tinley Park.

The finest Italian dishes and delights have been consolidated onto the menu at Frankie's Ristorante. Launch a foray into feasting with an order of fresh calamari fritti ($8.50) or bruschetta alla romana ($8.50). Pasta dishes such as lasagna Bolognese, with its rich meat sauce and melty mozzarella ($16.95), inspire nights of pleasant, noodle-filled dreams. A bevy of mouth-moistening main dishes present indecisive diners with nearly impossible choices; the pollo alla nina simmers a chicken breast with sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes in a fine brandy sauce ($16.95), and the vitello al limone bastes veal medallions in a lemon-caper butter sauce ($20.95). Take a more aqueous route to satiation with the tilapia oreganata, a lightly breaded tilapia in a white wine, garlic, and oregano sauce ($21.95). Daily soup and risotto specials help to keep the menu fresh and hungry psychics guessing.

Frankie's is owned by Vince and Nina Santoro, who emigrated from Italy in 1969, their son Frankie, and head chef Gaetano Calandrini, who was born, raised, and schooled in the culinary arts in Italy. He has more than 20 years of gourmet experience under his apron. In addition to being filled with authentic talent, the intimate dining room at Frankie's Ristorante boasts an ornate ceiling and walls adorned with exquisite, sometimes-winking paintings. Call to reserve a table for a memorable evening of fine Italian fare and silverware politicking.

Dine-in only.

Reviews

OpenTabler reviewers give Frankie's Ristorante a 4.4-star average, with Yelpers giving them a four-star average:

• Delicious! Declicious! Delicious! We felt like we were visiting our favorite ristorante in Florence, Italy.......Don't change a single thing Frankies! We love you! – Kimberly W., Yelp
• The food and service was excellent. I would recommend this to anyone. Fabulous. – OpenTable.com user who dined on 09/24/2010