Celebrity chef Michael Chiarello has passed away.
The former Food Network star died at the age of 61 at a hospital in Napa, California. His company, Grupo Chiarello, said in a statement on Oct. 7 that he had been receiving treatment there for the past week for a severe allergic reaction that led to anaphylactic shock. The group added that he spent his final moments surrounded by family and friends.
“We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved patriarch Michael,” the company said, citing his family. “His culinary brilliance, boundless creativity and unwavering devotion to family were at the core of his being. He brought people together through the joy of shared food, fostering lasting memories around the table.”
The statement continued, “As we move through this profound loss, we cherish the moments we cherished with him, in his kitchens and in our hearts. His legacy will live on forever in the love and passion he poured into every meal. In all of us to savor the flavors of life.”
Chiarello, a California native, opened his first restaurant in Napa, Tra Vigne, in 1987—two years later Food & Wine magazine named him Chef of the Year. She founded Chiarello Family Vineyards in 1999 and published several cookbooks before making her TV debut as host of the PBS cooking series “Season by Season” in 2000.
In 2003, Chiarello began hosting the Food Network show “Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello,” which aired for 10 seasons until 2008. He later competed on Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters” and appeared on episodes of Food Network’s “The Best Thing I”. Ever Eaten” and “The Next Iron Chef.” His last TV appearance came in 2016, when he starred in a double episode of the latter cable channel’s “Soft” series titled “Grill Masters: Napa.”
Her company said the funeral will be private, and in lieu of flowers, her family requests donations to Meals on Wheels, “recognizing her dedication to culinary excellence and sustainability,” her company said.
