THE FIFTH COURSE x CAMPERS EP. 2
Roman Grandinetti: The meal, The Chatter, and The Entrepreneur Journey!
I met Roman Grandinetti on July 4th last year. We just passed our one-year friendiversary. He showed up to someone else’s BBQ with meat, sides, and an extra set of cooking hands. I had no idea who he was, but I was instantly intrigued. We connected over all things New York, and when I found out he owned Regina’s, I knew I was in good company—the kind you keep seeing, again and again.
Roman was one of the first people who came to mind when Campers was born. His story is remarkable, and his energy, both for life and work, is infectious. Sitting down with him to hear his journey from the beginning to now was an absolute pleasure. He opened up about life lessons, career hurdles, parenthood, and the unwavering importance of family
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Who Is He: Roman Grandinetti
What He Does: Owner of Regina's Grocery, Mixed Ingrdnts, and Stupid Romans
Where To Find Him: At Reginas…or on Instagram
Originally from Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, Roman is a New Yorker through and through. He began his career in the world of sneakers and street art, eventually breaking into the agency world before launching his creative agency, Cnnctd. Roman exudes passion and drive. No matter the task, he gets it done and gets it done well.
Food had always been a love of his, but for a while, he wasn’t sure how he would break into the industry. When the moment finally came, he dove in headfirst and built Regina’s, a beloved sandwich spot that’s about more than just food. He’s not just selling sandwiches, he’s serving family.
WHAT’S ON THE PASS
I cook for every guest on Campers and it’s become one of my favorite parts of the process. Choosing what to make feels a bit like writing a personal letter to each person. I ask little tailored questions that eventually lead me to the right dish. The fun part is the dish always reveals something about them without them ever saying a word.
For Roman, I asked, “If you were to open a full-service restaurant, what’s one dish that would always have a place on the menu?” His answer? Panelle.
I’ll admit I had no idea what that was. You’ll hear more in the episode. I didn’t even know how to pronounce it at first. But after reading a few recipes, I learned it’s essentially a chickpea fritter, and everyone has their take on it. The classic Sicilian version is a panelle sandwich piled high with a thick layer of ricotta.
Here’s the exact recipe I used → Panelle
Here’s the exact recipe I would use in the future to make a Panelle Sando → Panelle Sando
How did it go? The flavor was there, but the presentation was not. Once the batter was ready, it needed to be refrigerated or frozen for a short time to set properly. But we were on film time, which means no time, so the panelle didn’t have a chance to firm up. What I ended up serving was not the vision I had in mind. Next time around (and not on film time), I’m going to give it ample time to hang out in the fridge, and would recommend you do the same.
THE CONVERSATION
This episode lit me up. If you're an entrepreneur or someone who just loves stories about grit, hustle, and heart, this one is for you.
Roman has moved through nearly every corner of the creative world and somehow managed to leave his mark on all of it. He makes it look easy, but behind the effortless cool is a relentless work ethic, sleepless nights, and a mind that never stops building. From sneakers to music, to marketing, to food.
He’s the kind of person who, if he dreams it, he does it. No hesitation, just full-force belief. And once you’re in his circle, he’s got your back for life.
In this episode, Roman brings us into his world: what it was like growing up in Brooklyn, how his family shaped every piece of who he is, and why that foundation continues to guide him. He talks openly about values, the lessons that matter most, and the fire that fuels everything he touches.
This one will leave you inspired.
A FEW HIGHLIGHTS:
Best piece of advice: ‘Really really love what you do. There is literally is a fire to put out every day, so make sure that you're comfortable getting burned’ - Roman
Cnnctd: Roman got his start in music at 20, interning at Loud Records and quickly landing under the wing of Steve Rifkind, who pushed him to start something of his own. That turned into CNNCTD—a magazine-turned-agency built around everything Roman loves: music, fashion, food, and culture. Before it even had a name, he was already working with 50 Cent and Mark Ronson. Now, CNNCTD has partnered with brands like Alexander Wang, Google, Kith, and Nike to create bold, cross-industry moments that truly matter.
Reginas: Regina’s Grocery isn’t just a sandwich shop…it’s a love story to New York, family, and a really good hero. Roman Grandinetti started it with his mom Regina, bringing old-school Italian energy to the Lower East Side with recipes straight from home. It’s cozy, a little loud, and full of heart. If you were lucky enough to stop by in the earlier days, you would've seen Regina herself in the back cooking meatballs. You walk in for a sandwich and leave feeling like part of the family. It’s a neighborhood spot that shows up for its people!
My order changes between two sandwiches. The Grandma Lucy, and The Cousin Cristina - Order here
THINK LIKE ROMAN:
A dish you wish you could experience for the first time again: PB&J
What is Roman working on now: Roman just launched Mixed Ingents an experimental cafe in LES and Stupid Romans, a new pizza spot concept in Brooklyn. I'm sure once he gets these two up and running, i’ll be sharing some event popup dates with you all!
SIDE PLATE
A new comfort staple unlocked:
I’m a sucker for Italian food, but I prefer the Italian American style. There’s a huge difference, trust me.
I grew up on Long Island, where Italian American isn’t just a culture…it’s practically a blood type. For most of my life, I thought that was being Italian. It wasn’t until college that I realized we’re not exactly the Nonna’s of Rome… we’re more like Rao’s with a tan. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Jr & Son absolutely gets it. It’s the kind of place that serves old-school red sauce nostalgia with a modern twist, deliciousness, and unapologetically extra. I leaned all the way in.
My order: Stuffed Clams. Shrimp Cocktail. Chicken Parm. And the legendary Rainbow Cookie Cake. and two House Dirty Martinis!
My outfit from the episode:
OTHER RECS THIS WEEK:
Only sharing because I just had to stock up on a few more sizes…
My ride-or-die sheet pan brand? Nordic Ware. It’s the only one I use. I’m usually a natural aluminum girlie, but they just dropped a nonstick line if that’s more your vibe. Once you try them, there’s no going back.
P.S., this is not sponsored (but it should be)….
UNTIL NEXT TIME
Roman left me feeling like I should take more chances and say yes to every wild idea while I can. If you haven’t experienced Regina’s yet, do yourself a favor and go!
Thanks for staying at the table with me.
See you next time.
xx,
Gina