EVENTS.
ACCOLADES & NOTABLE DATES
Francesco has become one of the most highly praised Italian entrepreneurs amongst his peers, audience, and in the media with many critically acclaimed awards for his work within the industry & humanitarian efforts
2020
LEARN ITALY: Awarded "Anniversary International Award" for his creativity and innovation within the vastly changing post-pandemic hospitality industry in the Chamber of Deputies
FORSE NON TUTTI SANNO CHE IN AMERICA: Book written by Francesco is published in Italy by Newton Compton Editore
ALLA NOTTE AMERICANA: Interviewed on the program by Nicola Porro regarding the American Election & the restaurant industry.
GAMBERO ROSSO: Awarded Francesco's newest operation, Feroce as "The Top Restaurant Opening Worldwide 2020"
LA REPUBBLICA: Awarded Antica Pesa as "The Best Roman Restaurant in the World"
GAMBERO ROSSO: Awarded Antica Pesa Brooklyn as a "Top Italian Restaurant in New York"
2019
FEROCE: Francesco opened new multi-level operation in Manhattan called Feroce Ristorante, Caffè & Bar in partnership with Moxy Hotel & Tao Group Hospitality
GAMBERO ROSSO: Awarded Feroce as a "Top Italian Restaurant in New York"
FANCY FOOD SHOW: Noted guest speaker and award presenter at The Fancy Food Show in New York
2018
LITTLE BIG ITALY: Discovery Channel Italy debuted Francesco's new television program on channel Nove. The program aired for four consecutive seasons & consistently proved to be one of the most-viewed and top-rated shows on the channel.
2016
NATIONAL ITALIAN AMERICAN FOUNDATION: Given prestigious award for Italian Excellence
CHiPS: Continuous fundraising for CHiPS, a homeless shelter in Brooklyn New York
NEW YORK CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Guest speaker in New York Public school program to discuss leadership to a youth audience
2015
POPE FRANCIS: Francesco's continued humanitarian work was recognized at the Vatican by Pope Francis
2014
BROOKLYN MAN: New York Guide Book written by Francesco based on his infamous television show is published in Italy by Newton Compton Editore
2013
BROOKLYN MAN: Premiered on Gambero Rosso, Francesco's television program was filmed in NYC and aired for six consecutive seasons, with reruns playing on Discovery Channel and Food Network
2012
GAMBERO ROSSO: Awarded National Excellence by Gambero Rosso for its 25th anniversary
ANTICA PESA BROOKLYN: Opens to popular acclaim, and is the first overseas operation of the Panella family's famous restaurant in Rome
2011
CHILDREN FOR PEACE: Awarded for his charitable efforts
CAVALIERE DEL LAVORO: Awarded “Cavaliere del Lavoro” by President of the Italian Republic Mr. Giorgio Napolitano
IL MIO PIATTO PREFERITO: Premiered on Gambero Rosso & Sky Channel HD, Francesco's television program aired for three consecutive seasons
2010
CHILDREN FOR PEACE: Personally funded and fundraised for two schools to be built in Africa
2009
CAVALIERE DEL COMMERCIO: Awarded "Cavaliere del Commercio” by Mayor of Rome, Mr. Gianni Alemanno