Franco’s Deli will be the newest eatery to touch down in Mawson Lakes, bringing with it authentic Italian food and awesome coffee. And, the leading force behind it is passionate 16-year-old, Carlo Capone.
The Adelaide-born Italian has been working his way through the hospitality industry since he was 13, and immediately realised this was the pathway for him.
“My background is Italian, although I was born in Adelaide and grew up here my whole life,” Carlo says.
“I’m only 16 years old and I started in hospitality when I was 13. Back then I wanted to be a tradie when I finished school.
“I started out clearing tables and washing dishes in a café and within two years, I had grown from that to being the café manager and able to do all positions within the cafe at only 15!
“From there I knew this is what I wanted to do forever. I approached the owner of the café I worked for, who is an Italian chef from Italy with over 10 years of industry experience (even at a Michelin Star restaurant in Italy) and said I wanted to own my own place.
“He is my mentor and is mentoring me every step of the way in my journey of opening Franco’s Deli. We’re even fitting out the shop together, physically doing the work ourselves – one thing he’s taught me is hard work always pays off,.”
For Carlo, Mawson Lakes seemed like the perfect location for the Deli.
“I haven’t seen any good quality, authentic Italian places locally, so I knew I had to bring something to Mawson Lakes,” Carlo says.
Carlo’s education under the eye of his mentor has brought with it a passion for authentic Italian flavours, and high-quality products. This in combination with the energised, youthful environment is what will make Franco’s stand out.
“We are bringing an authentic Italian sandwich shop, doing amazing Focaccia sandwiches with the highest quality products,” Carlo says.
“We will have the best coffee you’ve tasted and delicious cakes. This is all in a young, fun environment and beautiful new fit out.”
On the menu, there will be all the best Italian favourites, paninis, toasties, coffee, cakes, fresh juices and a pantry retail section to take home the ingredients you love.
Carlo’s favourite has to be the “Sopressa Focaccia which has Golden Peppers, Fior Di Latte, Spicy Mayo and of course a heap of Sopressa, every bite is like heaven!”
So, if you’ve been looking for a new sandwich or coffee spot, keep an eye out for Franco’s Deli. They’ll be opening soon, and promise to be active on their social media pages to ensure customers are kept in the loop!
Franco’s Deli
Where: 22-26 Goodall Parade, Mawson Lakes SA 5095
Instagram: @francos.deli