71. Hot Spot: Franco Sampogna + Bernardo Silva of FREVO

On this episode of the Hot Spot series, Gabriel Ornelas sits down with with chef Franco Sampogna and operator Bernardo Silva, co-owners of FREVO, a contemporary French restaurant hidden behind a small art gallery in Greenwich Village, New York—a secret you'd want to share with everyone.   The name "Frevo" in Portuguese means "to boil," reflecting not only the shared language of the co-owners but also the vibrant energy of New York City. Originally from Brazil and Portugal respectively, Franco and Bernardo crossed paths in their late teens in France, driven by a youthful hunger for knowledge and a passion for the hospitality industry. Franco spent a decade in France, working with culinary legends like Alain Ducasse, Guy Savoy, and Fabrice Vulin, while Bernardo focused on honing his hospitality management skills at esteemed places such as the Shangri-La Hotel in Paris and Hôtel Windsor in Nice. France served as their training ground and foundation, but New York remained their North Star. After almost a decade in France, Franco and Bernardo made the leap to New York, slowly shaping their dream. Despite the challenges, they opened FREVO, featuring an exquisite tasting menu an intimate 18 counter seats and a table for six.   Tune in as Franco and Bernardo passionately narrate their journey—a tale of friendship, partnership, and the pursuit of their dream against all odds in the bustling city of New York.     Discover more about our partner REPÚBLICA DEL CACAO: https://bit.ly/3ZRoVIv     Visit FREVO's website for more information: https://bit.ly/3Ob5tD1     Follow FREVO on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3vMTFQX     Follow Chef Franco on Instagram:  https://bit.ly/3S5EARY     Follow Bernardo on Instagram: https://bit.ly/48BR7nu     Follow On The Pass: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Read Gabriel's Articles: http://bit.ly/3SnOsGG     Lets work together! Get in contact: www.gabrielornelas.com