What started as a chance opportunity has turned into a thriving business for Robbin (Bobbie) and Aaron Franks, who own and operate Robin’s Northside Grill on the north side of Lebanon.
The couple, who grew up in the Willamette Valley, ventured into the restaurant business with family roots in brewing when they had a chance to expand their culinary pursuits to include the eclectic eatery that’s been quietly gaining a loyal following over the past 16 months.
Robin’s Northside Grill, named in honor of Bobbie’s father, is growing, despite its out-of-the-way location. The restaurant has relied primarily on word of mouth and a solid menu rather than traditional advertising.
“We haven’t done much advertising outside of a gift certificate promotion,” Aaron said. “But word of mouth is working well.”
The Franks’ menu reflects a blend of traditional bar food and more adventurous offerings, catering to a wide range of tastes. From poke bowls and Korean barbecue to classic burgers and mozzarella sticks, as well as a full bar, the couple’s goal was to create a menu that offers something for everyone. Each month, they introduce a “Fresh Menu” featuring local, in-season ingredients and new craft cocktails, keeping the dining experience fresh and exciting for returning customers. The owners heaped praise on their chef for their creative and ever changing Fresh Menu and his skills in the kitchen.
Chef Derrick Hamel-Kaalekahi brings a creative flair to Robin’s Northside Grill, drawing on his early experiences in the kitchen of his uncle, a chef at a private university for international students.
“I used to get in trouble at home, and my dad would make me go wash dishes or chop onions at my uncle’s kitchen every weekend,” Hamel-Kaalekahi said. “Before I knew it, I was on the weekend schedule as morning prep – at 11 years old.”
Today, Hamel-Kaalekahi specializes in fusion and gourmet comfort food, often starting his menu planning with the cost of proteins before reimagining traditional dishes.
“People asked for pasta and meatballs; I gave them Korean short rib croquettes with lo mein,” he explained. “The fun part about creating a menu is being innovative and completely different from competitors with your own proprietary recipes.”
Despite its location on the newly developed north side of town, where it remains somewhat hidden from heavy traffic, Robin’s Northside Grill has seen steady growth. The restaurant’s appeal extends to a broad audience, from families to couples on dates.
“We get the older crowd, families, couples – people of all ages,” Aaron said. “We have a lot of loyal return customers.”
The restaurant’s ambiance is as diverse as its menu, featuring a bar, indoor seating and a large patio with outdoor fireplaces accessed through a roll-up glass door. The walls are adorned with fun and eclectic artwork, including images of Jack Nicholson, The Dude, Albert Einstein and a massive mural of a local Lebanon landmark. The space also offers darts, TVs playing sports and a kids menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
August’s Fresh Menu, for instance, highlights dishes like hushpuppies with hot honey, a steak salad, Baja Mahi Mahi tacos, and a Wagyu Smokehouse Burger, complementing the regular menu that includes classic bar fare alongside poke bowls and Korean barbecue.
Running the restaurant is truly a family affair, with the Franks’ three children helping out, including their 11 year old daughter, who eagerly buses tables.
“It’s great to have the whole family involved,” Aaron said.
The Franks hope Robin’s Northside Grill will become a fixture in the Lebanon dining scene, offering a welcoming space where everyone – from families to date-night couples – can find something they enjoy. As the restaurant continues to grow, the Franks remain committed to providing their customers with a unique and enjoyable dining experience, rooted in both tradition and innovation.