For those of you who have not yet had the delight of knowing Mimmo Franzone, you are in for a treat. The passion he brings to the produce and floral departments of Longo’s is just one facet of his many loves and interests. Dying to know more, I asked Mimmo one of the most fun questions of all: What IF? True to form, it was worth asking. Pour yourself a beverage—per Mimmo, probably something with tequila—and enjoy.
If you could have been born in another century or decade, which would it be and why?
Hands down the 22nd century, just because I don’t think I’ll make it there, and it’s going to be a pretty cool time to be on Earth.
IF you had to choose now, what would your last meal consist of?
People who know me would assume I’d say tacos, but I’m going to go with tequila...and tacos. One braised short rib, one pork belly, one baja fish, and two ounces of extra Añejo. Salud!
IF you could have any actor play you in a movie, who would it be?
Has to be Denzel Washington…have you ever watched a Denzel movie you didn’t enjoy?
IF you could imagine yourself in a different industry, what would it be?
Definitely the music industry. I’ve been known to spin a record or two.
IF you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
The options are almost endless…but one of them would be Bobby Flay. I grew up watching all his shows and he seems like a pretty cool cat. Oh, and he’d cook and it would be a kick-ass dinner, too!
IF you wrote an autobiography, what would be the title?
Going with a J.O. (Jordan Okumura) throwback: “Beats and Beets.” Describes my passion for music and food, which pretty much sums me up.
IF you had to wear the same thing every day what items of clothing would you pick?
Jeans, a retro graphic tee, and a pair of sneakers. Oh wait…and a hoodie—it’s cold up here in Canada!
IF you could make everyone watch a movie of your choosing, which movie would you want them to see?
Rudy, despite the 7.5 IMDb rating. It’s more about the lessons learned…determination, overcoming odds, and fulfilling dreams. Pele said it best: “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing.” The words I live by.
IF you had to eat the same thing every day for the rest of your days, what would you eat?
For someone who loves food, this question shouldn’t have made the list…but I’ll take a shot at it:
Breakfast: A mango
Lunch: Wood oven pizza
Dinner: Tacos
IF you could join a musician, dead or alive, on stage to sing along or play an instrument with, who would you choose and why?
Probably the toughest question of them all…I’m going to have to say John Lennon; playing an acoustic set while I live through the 60s and 70s through my dad’s eyes.
