Chef Michael Chiarello, Former Food Network Star, Has Died

The Emmy Award-winning "Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello" star chef Michael Chiarello has tragically died at 61. The Food Network star had been admitted to the Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa, California, due to anaphylactic shock after being exposed to an unnamed allergen.

In a statement, Chiarello's company Gruppo Chiarello paid homage to the late culinary genius: "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." the statement said of the Italian-American chef. "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."

That passion was partly inherited. Chiarello grew up with a family whose members included ranchers, cheese makers, and butchers and dreamed of turning cooking into a career someday. He would realize his dream in a grand way. A Culinary Institute of America graduate, he appeared on shows like "Iron Chef America," "Top Chef," "Best Thing I Ever Made," and "Supermarket Superstar." Throughout his long career as a chef and restaurateur, he worked with and ran more than 10 restaurants.

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Michael Chiarello Brought Joy To Others' Lives

Michael Chiarello opened his first restaurant, Tra Vigne in Napa, Valley in 1986, and later launched the likes of Bottega Restaurant in Yountville, California. In addition to experiencing success in the culinary world, Chiarello authored over 10 books throughout his life. His work has been recognized and awarded by IACP and the James Beard Foundation. However, Chiarello's olive oil company Consorzio Flavored Oils received an award in the "Best Product Line" category at the International Fancy Food Show in the mid-'90s.

After Charello's untimely death, fans and well-wishers from all around the world have extended their heartfelt condolences. "RIP Michael Chiarello. I enjoyed his Food Network show ... He had a very nice personality for a TV chef," one fan tweeted. Another fan wrote in part, "He was charming... [and] his food - inspired." His family and loved ones have asked for privacy while they grieve the tragic loss.

Read the original article on Mashed.