How do you start your day?
I get up early and have breakfast with my children before they go to school. It's easy to find me at Sartoria well before 9 a.m. catching up on emails and phone calls at the Libare Bar.
Leisurely lunch go to?
As most chefs would say, during the week I have a bite at my restaurant Sartoria before service begins. When I'm off on Sundays, I love to make the most of my neighbourhood and very much enjoy North London's culinary scene - Bellanger and Almeida in Islington are among my favourites.
Favourite way to pass the time in London?
I'm always out and about and would love to see more of my family. So my treat is to spend quality time with them whenever I'm free - I take them shopping, we go to the local farmers' market, we cook together and I love reading my kids bedtime stories.
Favourite London landmark, and why?
The Shard by Italian Architect Renzo Piano. Why? Because you can spot it from pretty much anywhere in London. It feels like it's always belonged to the city skyline.
Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout?
I'm a huge Negroni fan. At the moment, Bar Termini and 69 Colebrooke Row are on my A-list. And since Simone Caporale is taking over Sartoria's Libare Bar as 'Master of Mixology' this autumn, I have yet another excuse to spend more time at work and enjoy a tipple after service.
Favourite dining destinations, and why?
Park Chinois is the epitome of Chinese cuisine in the most luxurious setting, Chef Lee really makes the best Chinese cooking in London. I also find myself heading back a lot the Quality Chop House in Farringdon – the staff are wonderful, there’s a great wine selection, and they use amazing British produce.
Final stop for a nightcap, and why?
69 Colebrooke Row in Islington - Tony Conegliaro really works his magic on those cocktails and it's on my way home.
Best hangover remedy?
As a family man, hangovers are no longer 'a thing' but, for those who need to recover after a big night out, I'd recommend the Eggs Purgatorio served at Sartoria, with n'duja and tomatoes. It was my grandma's recipe and if that doesn't soak up all the alcohol I don't know what will!
Where next on your travels?
A trip to Puglia, the heel of Italy's boot. I can never get enough of Southern Italy, my main source of inspiration in the kitchen.
Chef patron at Sartoria restaurant in Mayfair’s Savile Row, Francesco has long been considered one of London’s best chefs. He was born and raised in Calabria and had was previously behind L'Anima as well as opened Santini restaurants in Edinburgh and Milan, the Royal Sporting Club in Bangkok, Franco’s on Jermyn Street and St Alban in London, as well as venues across the world alongside restaurateur Alan Yau and previously behind L'Anima. In addition, he has appeared frequently on Saturday Kitchen, MasterChef and is a veteran at Taste of London.
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