One Of Food Network’s Best Chefs Passes Away

By Sckylar Gibby-Brown | Published

michael chiarello

The culinary world is in mourning as it bids farewell to one of its brightest stars, Michael Chiarello. According to The Hollywood Reporter, The charismatic chef and former Food Network sensation, who had a remarkable career spanning decades, has tragically passed away at the age of 61.

“We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved patriarch, Michael. His culinary brilliance, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment to family were at the core of his being.”

-from an official statement from the family of Michael Chiarello

Celebrity chef and beloved TV personality Michael Chiarello, known for his infectious passion for food and his warm, inviting television presence, has tragically passed away at the age of 61.

Chiarello, who hosted the iconic show Easy Entertaining With Michael Chiarello on Food Network and NapaStyle on Fine Living Network, will be deeply missed by loved ones and the fans he inspired.

Michael Chiarello’s death occurred at the Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa, California, where he was being treated for an acute allergic reaction that ultimately led to anaphylactic shock. His company, Gruppo Chiarello, confirmed the sad news.

In a statement released by his family, they expressed their deep sorrow and reflected on the legacy Michael Chiarello leaves behind. “We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved patriarch, Michael. His culinary brilliance, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment to family were at the core of his being,” they said. 

Celebrity chef Michael Chiarello has died at the age of 61.

The statement continued that the Food Network sensation had a talent for bringing people together through the happiness of food and that Michael Chiarello fostered fond memories at the dinner table. “His legacy will forever live on in the love he poured into every dish and the passion he instilled in all of us to savor life’s flavors.”

Michael Chiarello’s career was marked by a string of successful television shows, including Easy Entertaining With Michael Chiarello, which aired on Food Network for an impressive 10 years and earned multiple Emmy nominations. He won the trophy for Outstanding Service Show Host in 2005, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in the world of entertainment and gastronomy.

michael chiarello
Padma Lakshmi and Michael Chiarello on Top Chef

Born in Red Bluff, California, in 1962 to an Italian-American family, Michael Chiarello’s culinary journey began when he graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1982.

He further honed his skills, receiving a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from Florida International University in 1984. His culinary prowess caught the attention of many when he opened his first restaurant, Toby’s, in Miami, and was named Chef of the Year by Food & Wine magazine in 1985.

“His legacy will forever live on in the love he poured into every dish and the passion he instilled in all of us to savor life’s flavors.”

-from Food Network’s official statement on the passing of Michael Chiarello

In 1986, Michael Chiarello returned to California, where the Food Network star played a pivotal role in the opening of Tra Vigne Restaurant in the picturesque Napa Valley.

His culinary adventures continued with the launch of Bottega and Ottimo, leaving an unforgettable mark on the dining landscape. Bottega, in particular, gained a reputation as a celebrity hotspot, with stars like Carrie Underwood and Judy Greer praising its delectable offerings.

Michael Chiarello’s passing marks the end of an era in the culinary world, but his legacy as a chef, Food Network personality, and advocate for the joys of shared meals will live on in the hearts and kitchens of those he inspired throughout his remarkable career.