NEW YORK >> Michael Chiarello, a chef known for his Italian-inspired California restaurants, won an Emmy Award for best host for “Easy Entertaining With Michael Chiarello” and appeared on Bravo’s “Top Chef” and “Top Chef Masters,” has died . He was 61.
Chiarello died Friday at Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa from an allergic reaction that led to anaphylactic shock, according to Chiarello’s restaurant group Gruppo Chiarello. He had been treated in hospital for his allergic reaction last week. Details about how he developed the allergic reaction were not immediately available.
“We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved patriarch Michael. His culinary brilliance, boundless creativity and unwavering commitment to family formed the core of his being,” the restaurant group said in a statement.
Chiarello, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York, opened his first restaurant – Toby’s in Miami – at just 22 years old. He then opened various restaurants in Napa Valley and San Francisco, including Tra Vigne Restaurant, Coqueta, Ottimo and Bottega. He also owned the Chiarello Family Vineyards in Yountville, California.
Bottega was named Best Newcomer by Zagat in 2008 and was named one of America’s Best New Restaurants by both Forbes and Esquire. At the restaurant he served Lasagnetta di Zucchine, Pesce alla Milanese and Pollo alla Diavola. Ottimo had paninis and family meals for four, like tomato-braised and fried whole chicken.
In 1985, Chiarello was named Chef of the Year by Food & Wine Magazine and in 1995 he received the Culinary Institute of America’s Chef of the Year award. In 2011, he was a part of Food Network’s “Next Iron Chef” competition, “Supermarket Superstar” on Lifetime and a judge on “Chopped.” He was named Chef of the Year 2013 by Esquire magazine.
In 2016, Chiarello was accused of sexual harassment by two of Coqueta’s former employees. The lawsuits filed by the former employees were settled the following year.
His books included LiveFire Cookbook, The Tra Vigne Cookbook, Michael Chiarello’s Bottega, Michael Chiarello’s Casual Cooking, Napa Stories and Flavored Vinegars.
He leaves behind his wife Eileen and four children.
“In remembrance, we ask you to join us in celebrating his remarkable journey and the incredible impact he has had on the world of food, wine and family by inviting you to share a meal with your family and friends “To remind us all that bonds formed over a meal are among life’s most precious treasures,” said Gruppo Chiarello.