Nurturing Toronto’s Communities, One Meal at a Time: The Story of Boom Breakfast Restaurant

At Boom Breakfast, every meal is a celebration of family, community, and the inspiring success of women-led entrepreneurship.

Founded over 20 years ago by Tony Cappellano, the first Boom location on College Street in Toronto quickly became a beloved neighborhood gathering spot, evolving into two thriving locations: The Junction (Dundas and Keele) and Little Italy (College and Ossington).

But it’s not just Tony’s vision that’s shaped Boom—it’s the dedication and leadership of his family, particularly his daughter-in-law, Shannon Cappellano, a dynamic working mom who, alongside her husband James, has steered the family business into its next chapter.

In 2024, Shannon and James introduced Mangiare, a dual-concept restaurant that seamlessly blends Boom Breakfast by day with Mangiare’s homemade Italian meals by night. Their goal was to create a space where parents could enjoy delicious, homemade Italian dishes without the pressure of dressing up or worrying about picky eaters. 

As parents themselves, Shannon and James understand the need for an inclusive, relaxed dining experience for families—and Mangiare precisely embodies that vision.

Whether it’s running day-to-day operations or setting the tone for an inviting, community-focused atmosphere, Shannon brings her passionate perspective to everything she does for both Boom Breakfast and Mangiare.