14/04/2026
Hi There,
My name is Francesco, I’m 25 years old, and I come from Puglia — the “heel” of the Italian boot. I moved to the UK in July 2020, just after turning 19. I arrived with a suitcase, a lot of determination, and a passion that had been burning inside me since I was a kid: cooking, good food, and the dream of one day opening my own restaurant.
For six years I worked hard, saved every pound I could, and learned what sacrifice really means. And in the end, that childhood dream finally became reality.
On November 7th, I opened Compa’. Where Piccolinos once stood, now there is my vision, my story, and my pride. Compa’ is not just a restaurant — it’s my mission. It was born to bring real Italian food to England, in a country where, after years of experience and seeing many big “Italian” chains up close, I’ve watched the name Italy being used to serve dishes that have very little Italian about them.
Compa’ is the opposite: it’s authenticity, respect for ingredients, love for tradition, and the true taste of home brought here to the heart of Leamington.
And none of this would be possible without my team.
Giacomo and Ray, both Italian as well, who put passion, skill, and heart into the kitchen every single day.
And Rose, our waitress, who welcomes every guest with a genuine smile and an energy that makes Compa’ feel warm and special.
We’re a small team, but with a big spirit.
Now I want to invite the whole Leamington Spa community to come and experience what real Italian food truly tastes like: fresh dishes, made with care, without being overloaded or overcomplicated. Just good food, prepared the way it should be.
I’ll be waiting for you at Compa’.
Because real Italy — the one I grew up with — is told through food.
