Renowned Chef Michael Chiarello Dies at 61 due to Allergic Reaction
New York – Michael Chiarello, a celebrated chef known for his Italian-inspired Californian restaurants, has passed away at the age of 61. Chiarello, who gained recognition for his Emmy Award-winning television show “Easy Entertaining With Michael Chiarello” and appearances on Bravo’s “Top Chef” and “Top Chef Masters,” was well-respected in the culinary world.
The chef’s restaurant group, Gruppo Chiarello, confirmed the news of his death, stating that he passed away on Friday at Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa. Chiarello suffered an allergic reaction that led to anaphylactic shock, eventually claiming his life. He had been receiving treatment at the hospital for the past week, but further details regarding the development of the allergic reaction are yet to be revealed.
In a statement, Gruppo Chiarello expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of their “beloved patriarch Michael.” The restaurant group highlighted his culinary brilliance, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment to family, which were all integral parts of his character.
Chiarello began his culinary journey at a young age, opening his first restaurant, Toby’s, at just 22 in Miami. He went on to establish numerous highly regarded restaurants throughout Napa Valley and San Francisco, including Tra Vigne Restaurant, Coqueta, Ottimo, and Bottega. Additionally, he owned the Chiarello Family Vineyards in Yountville, California.
Bottega, one of Chiarello’s establishments, gained significant recognition when it was named Best Newcomer by Zagat in 2008. Forbes and Esquire also selected it as one of America’s best new restaurants. Noteworthy dishes from Bottega included Lasagnetta di Zucchine, Pesce alla Milanese, and Pollo alla Diavola. Ottimo, another restaurant under Chiarello’s helm, served paninis and family-style dishes like tomato-braised and roasted whole chicken.
Throughout his career, Chiarello received various accolades, including being named Chef of the Year by Food & Wine Magazine in 1985 and the Culinary Institute of America in 1995. He also participated in renowned cooking competitions such as Food Network’s “Next Iron Chef” and Lifetime’s “Supermarket Superstar,” and served as a judge on “Chopped.” In 2013, Esquire magazine honored him as Chef of the Year.
However, Chiarello’s career faced controversy in 2016 when he was accused of sexual harassment by two former employees of his restaurant Coqueta. The lawsuits filed by these employees were settled the following year.
In addition to his culinary pursuits, Chiarello was also an accomplished author, with published works such as “LiveFire Cookbook,” “The Tra Vigne Cookbook,” “Michael Chiarello’s Bottega,” “Michael Chiarello’s Casual Cooking,” “Napa Stories,” and “Flavored Vinegars.”
Chiarello is survived by his wife, Eileen, and four children. Gruppo Chiarello invited everyone to remember the chef’s remarkable journey and his significant impact on the world of food, wine, and family by sharing a meal with their loved ones. They emphasized the importance of the bonds forged over a meal as one of life’s most precious treasures.