Frank Sinatra’s Favorite Foods and Drinks: A Glimpse into His Palate
Frank Sinatra, the iconic American singer, actor, and producer, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his velvety vocals and magnetic stage presence. Known for his impeccable style and debonair demeanor, Sinatra was not just a musical legend but also an aficionado of good food and drink. In this article, we will explore 14 foods and drinks that Frank Sinatra absolutely loved, providing a rare insight into his personal preferences and culinary pleasures. So, let’s dive into the gastronomic world of Ol’ Blue Eyes!
The Perfect Martini
When it comes to cocktails, Frank Sinatra was a known connoisseur, and his favorite drink was the classic gin martini. Sinatra preferred his martini with a three-to-one ratio of gin to vermouth, stirred gently with ice, and garnished with a twist of lemon. He believed that a perfect martini should be silky smooth and potent enough to make an impression.
Pasta Milanese
Sinatra had an undying love for Italian cuisine, and one of his favorite pasta dishes was Pasta Milanese. This simple yet flavorful dish features spaghetti tossed in a rich tomato sauce with onions, garlic, basil, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Sinatra would often indulge in this comforting dish, which reminded him of his Italian heritage.
Pork Chops
The tender and juicy pork chops were also a staple on Sinatra’s plate. He preferred them perfectly grilled or fried, accompanied by mashed potatoes and a side of green beans. Sinatra believed that a well-cooked pork chop was a testament to the culinary skills of a chef.
Clams Casino
Seafood held a special place in Sinatra’s heart, and Clams Casino was one of his top choices. This classic appetizer features baked clams topped with a delectable mixture of breadcrumbs, bacon, bell peppers, and herbs. Sinatra loved the combination of flavors in this dish, which balanced the sweetness of the clams with the smoky and savory elements.
Chicken Scarpariello
Another Italian favorite of Sinatra was Chicken Scarpariello. This dish comprises chicken pieces sautéed with sausage, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and cherry peppers, all simmered in a tangy white wine and lemon sauce. Sinatra appreciated the vibrant and zesty flavors, which added an extra kick to the tender chicken.
Cheeseburgers
Despite his refined taste, Sinatra never shied away from indulging in a good old-fashioned cheeseburger. He believed that a perfect cheeseburger should be cooked to perfection, preferably with a medium-rare or medium doneness. Whether topped with Swiss, cheddar, or American cheese, Sinatra knew how to savor every bite of this classic American dish.
The Jack Daniel’s Special
Moving on to Sinatra’s preferred drinks, his association with Jack Daniel’s whiskey was well-documented. In fact, he was such a fan that Jack Daniel’s created a limited edition Sinatra Select whiskey in his honor. Sinatra enjoyed sipping his whiskey on the rocks, as it perfectly complemented his soothing and soulful voice.
Vodka on the Rocks
When Sinatra wanted a lighter option, he would often reach for a glass of vodka on the rocks. With his usual elegance, he would savor the crisp and clean taste of the vodka, often accompanied by a slice of lemon or lime as a refreshing twist.
Cold Milk
While the finer spirits found their way into Sinatra’s preferences, he also had a simpler drink of choice – cold milk. Sinatra had been known to enjoy a glass of cold milk at breakfast or as a refreshing pick-me-up throughout the day. It may seem ordinary amidst his sophisticated choices, but it shows that Sinatra appreciated both the extravagant and the everyday pleasures in life.
Fried Egg Sandwich
In the realm of comfort food, Sinatra had a fondness for a good old fried egg sandwich. He would often indulge in this delightfully simple creation, consisting of a fried egg, bacon, and cheese, sandwiched between two slices of toasted bread. This humble yet satisfying sandwich would bring a smile to Sinatra’s face.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Sinatra’s love for pasta extended to the classic Spaghetti Bolognese as well. He relished the combination of al dente spaghetti bathed in a hearty meat sauce, typically made with ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a hint of red wine. Sinatra appreciated the robust flavors and the comforting nature of this Italian classic.
Steak
Notably, Sinatra had a penchant for a well-cooked steak. He preferred his steak medium-rare, tender and juicy, and often accompanied by a side of sautéed mushrooms or creamed spinach. Sinatra believed that a quality steak, when prepared with care and attention, was a feast fit for a king.
Lamb Chops
Lamb chops were another item that found its way onto Sinatra’s preferred list. Sinatra enjoyed his lamb chops grilled or broiled to perfection, with a slight pink center. The succulent nature of the meat, coupled with the rich flavors that develop during cooking, made lamb chops an unforgettable delight for his palate.
Italian Wedding Soup
Completing our culinary journey, Sinatra had an affinity for Italian Wedding Soup. This traditional Italian soup combines meatballs, spinach, pasta, and chicken broth in a harmonious blend of flavors. Sinatra appreciated the heartiness of this soup and often found comfort in its warm and savory nature.
Conclusion
Frank Sinatra not only enthralled the world with his musical genius but also left behind a legacy of memorable flavors. From his love for classic cocktails like martinis and Jack Daniel’s whiskey to his fondness for Italian cuisine, Sinatra’s palate demonstrated a refined yet diverse taste. Whether indulging in comfort food or savoring the finest delicacies, Sinatra appreciated the artistry in every bite and sip. Just like his songs, Sinatra’s favorite foods and drinks continue to captivate and evoke a sense of nostalgia for fans around the globe.
*Source www.tastingtable.com
