Franca's started as Franca's perfect gifts in the basement of the family home of Franca and Mario Flaviano. Since then, Franca's has flourished into Calgary's favourite spot for Italian food.

 

Today, Franca's is still proud to be a family-owned business, now owned by Jennifer and John Banister. Jennifer has been in the hospitality industry for over 25 years, coming to Canada from New York City. She is the owner of Bountiful Chef, which specializes in personal chef services focusing on nutritional therapy and catering hot lunch programs for private and public schools and daycares in Calgary. John is originally from the Northeast of England and has performed all over the world, especially Italy, and will jump at any chance to chat with you in Italian!

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At the end of May 2026, the Banisters decided to close Franca's doors and reopen as Petalo. Petalo still features Italian cuisine, but the approach is fresh, light, vibrant, and modern with nods to Mediterranean and European cuisine. 

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While honoured to be a part of the Franca's world for a short time, the Banisters look forward to welcoming you to Petalo.

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