About Us
Our Story
Franco's passion for food runs deep, woven into his family’s history and heritage. Growing up in his mother’s kitchen in Puglia, Italy, Franco was captivated by the aromas and flavours that filled the room, standing on a chair to sample pasta fresh off the stove. Cooking was not just a skill he learned—it was an inheritance, a tradition shared by his whole family from, grandparents, uncles, and cousins, all of whom worked and are working as Chefs.
Franco's journey is a rich tapestry of culinary passion and dedication. Growing up in Puglia, Italy, Franco was deeply influenced by his family's tradition of cooking. From an early age, he immersed himself in the culinary world, gaining hands-on experience in his uncle’s restaurant and pursued formal studies in the culinary arts.
Franco's career is marked by a commitment to authenticity and local traditions. He managed a restaurant in Puglia for almost a decade before opening his own establishment, where he introduced unique dining experiences. His multi-course wine-themed nights gained the attention of Culinary Magazines.
In 2016, Franco moved to Canada with his family, continuing his culinary journey at St. George’s Golf & Country Club. His contributions helped elevate the club to one of the top twenty in the world, and in 2018, he received the prestigious "Star of the Year" award. In 2020, he embraced the opportunity to create a restaurant within The Old Mill Hotel. While the pandemic delayed its opening, Canto opened in early 2025—bringing to life the shared vision of Franco and the hotel’s ownership.
