Marquis Who's Who Honors Franco Campilongo for Expertise in Restaurant Services
Press Release April 16, 2026
Franco Campilongo recognized as the founder of Terun - Italico - Impasto
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Terun has received national recognition, including features in The New York Times and appearances on Italian television.

PALO ALTO, CA, April 16, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Franco Campilongo has been included in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Campilongo has built a distinguished career in the restaurant industry, most recently as co-founder of Impasto by Terun, established in San Carlos CA in 2024. He leads the business alongside his brother, Maico Campilongo, his cousin Giuseppe and executive chef Kristjan D'Angelo. Together they have created a family-driven enterprise rooted in hospitality, quality and a deep connection to their Southern Italian heritage. In his role, Mr. Campilongo oversees operations, supports his partners and works closely with both front and back of house teams to ensure a seamless and memorable guest experience.

Since 2016, Mr. Campilongo has also been the co-founder and owner of Italico Restaurant in Palo Alto, alongside Michael Oliverio. Under his leadership, Italico has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, recognizing its exceptional quality and value. His approach reflects a commitment to creating welcoming, high-quality dining experiences inspired by the warmth and conviviality of traditional Italian culture and hospitality.

In 2013, he founded Terun Pizzeria & Ristorante, a defining pillar of his work in the industry. The name "Terun," once used as a derogatory term for Southern Italians, was intentionally reclaimed by Mr. Campilongo and his partners as a symbol of pride and resilience. The restaurant serves also as a tribute to his father, who experienced such prejudice firsthand when working in northern Italy. Terun has received national recognition, including features in The New York Times and appearances on Italian television. Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, particularly its Neapolitan-style pizza, it has earned acclaim as one of the top pizzerias in the United States, including recognition by The Food Network.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Campilongo served as general manager of Pasta? of Palo Alto from 2004 to 2012, where he developed the operational expertise and leadership foundation that would later support his entrepreneurial success. Prior to his transition into the hospitality industry, he also completed a two-year service with the Italian Carabinieri (Police), an experience that further shaped his discipline, sense of responsibility and leadership approach. He remains actively engaged in the local business community, including participation in the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Campilongo holds a bachelor's degree in economics from Università della Calabria (2001) and completed additional coursework in economics and business at the College of San Mateo (2004). His academic background has played a key role in shaping his approach to financial management and strategic growth.

He began his professional journey in Italy, working in bars and restaurants from the age of 14. After relocating to the United States, he worked his way up from busboy and server to restaurant manager while improving his English and continuing his education. After eight years in management, he identified the opportunity to open Terun, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial path.

Much of Mr. Campilongo's leadership philosophy is influenced by his father Giuseppe, whose emphasis on discipline, respect, and integrity continues to guide his approach. He believes that true success comes from decisiveness balanced with fairness and genuine care for others. As an immigrant, he takes pride in building his businesses with integrity and with deep respect for the rules and values of his host country and considers it a privilege to contribute to his community.

Beyond his professional work, Mr. Campilongo is actively involved in community and charitable efforts. He sponsors a professional cycling team and supports Parkinson's research initiatives, fully inspired by his close partnership with Chef D'Angelo who was diagnosed with the disease in 2017, including events associated with The Michael J. Fox Foundation. His contributions have been recognized with honors such as the Tall Tree Award from the City of Palo Alto and a Chamber of Commerce award for community leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originally from Scalea, Calabria, Italy, Mr. Campilongo enjoys cycling and values time with his wife, Liz, and their three children, Giuliana, Giuseppe, and Giorgio. Looking ahead, he aims to continue strengthening community connections through his restaurants while expanding into new locations, bringing authentic hospitality and a sense of family to a broader audience.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. The suite of Marquis® publications, including Who's Who in America® and Who's Who in the World®, remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the globe. Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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