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Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Here's How Food Network Stars And Other Celebrities Reacted To Anne Burrell's Death
On Tuesday, the world was devastated to learn that beloved Food Network star Anne Burrell had died at age 55. While her cause of death is unknown, it's believed she suffered a cardiac event, just hours after returning home from an improv show. Soon after the news of her death broke, several celebrities took to the internet to mourn her loss. Rachael Ray said she and her husband, John Cusimano, were devastated. "The news about Anne has truly shaken us," she wrote alongside a series of photos with Anne, including at her 2021 wedding to executive Stuart Claxton, where Rachael served as a bridesmaid. "I can't quite believe it — such a strong, vibrant, fearless woman, so full of life and love, could be gone so soon." Chopped's Scott Conant wrote that he was "deeply affected" by Anne's death: "Anne and I shared a long, vibrant journey through the world of Italian restaurants in the '90s and 2000s. We were friends for over 30 years, sharing countless laughs, navigating life's challenges, even swapping astrologers and fortune tellers. Her presence was truly remarkable, her competitive spirit unmatched. I'm heartbroken and will deeply miss my dear friend, peer and cherished colleague." Chef Tyler Florence called her one of the funniest and "brightest" people he's ever met. Carla Hall from Worst Cooks in America remembered Anne as "a fierce chef and instructor" with cool "custom skirts, mismatched socks, and that unforgettable big smile." "She had an electric presence in and out of the kitchen—an incredible chef, a joyful spirit, and a passionate philanthropist," said Food Network star Marcus Samuelsson. "I'll always cherish the time we spent together at events, on set, and supporting causes like City Harvest." Related: From Florence Pugh To Zoë Kravitz, Here's All The Celebrities Who Rocked Sheer Or Naked Dresses Chef Aarón Sánchez praised everything about his "dear friend," including "her spirit, her fire, her talent, her leadership, [and] her laugh." "So much respect and love for this amazing woman," he continued. "I'll carry her memory with me always. Rest easy, amiga. 💔" Maneet Chauhan from Chopped thanked Anne for "making cooking fearless, fun and inspiring the next generation of young girls/ kids to dare to follow their dreams and to feel that they belong." Chef Robert Irvine remembered Anne's "radiant spirit" in a post shared on X. "From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect," he wrote. "I'd risk bleaching my hair; she'd risk losing hers. ... It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn't imagine losing to a more fierce competitor." He also said, outside of the show, he "came to know her as a generous and supportive colleague and an even better friend." Twitter: @RobertIrvine Eric Adjepong, who appeared alongside Anne on Wildcard Kitchen, reportedly reacted to the "incredibly sad" news of her death on Instagram. "My heart to Chef Anne's family and friends," he wrote. "What a loss. RIP Chef." Related: Here Are 10 Celebs Who've Publicly Admitted The Reasons Why They Regret Ending Their Marriages Chris Santos said the news of Anne's death left him speechless. "I'm not usually lost for words but are just no words," he wrote. "All I can muster is to say that I'll miss you very much my friend, and I will never forget our days working and hanging out together, always having so much fun." Bizarre Foods host Andrew Zimmern posted a throwback photo on Instagram alongside a beaming Anne. "How I choose to remember people. Happy and laughing and believing that anything in life is possible," he said. "Sending all our love to her family, friends, and fans. An unnecessary loss is just the hardest to handle and this one really hurts. Nothing but love for all right now, especially Anne." Chef and host Alex Guarnaschelli encouraged fans to celebrate Anne like she would have wanted. "Make this moment about her," she said. "She'd want you to go out, raise a glass, sing karaoke (including this Sia song--one of her favorite 'Worst Cooks' warm up songs) and be able to say, like she does, #ilovewhatido --so do it for her. In her honor." Vivica A. Fox, who appeared on Worst Cooks and Beat Bobby Flay, remembered working with Anne in a moving statement to People. She said, "Anne taught me all about good food! I had a BLAST working with her and going to her restaurant for a good meal. I'll miss her kindness, smile and great hair! May she rest in paradise." In an X post, Aarti Sequeira from The Next Food Network Star reflected on Anne's realness. "The first time I met Anne Burrell, she gave me tough love I didn't want—but needed," she wrote. "She was bold, warm, and real. I still hear her in my kitchen: 'Brown food tastes good!' Anne, you'll be missed. Thank you for teaching us all. #luckygirl 💔" @aartipaarti / Food Network / Via Twitter: @aartipaarti Chopped judge Tiffani Faison shared a picture of Anne on Instagram and wrote, "Rest easy, Chef." Kardea Brown from Delicious Miss Brown said she was in "utter disbelief." "I was always impressed with how fierce she was in competitions and how she supported her friends & family," tweeted Simon Majumdar, who appeared on shows like Cutthroat Kitchen and Iron Chef America. "Rest in Peace. Rise in Glory." Gigi Hadid paid tribute to the chef while remembering when they worked together on Beat Bobby Flay, an experience she called "a dream come true." "I wish we could have done it again," she added. "She was awesome. Rest in Peace Legend." Chopped judge Amanda Freitag wrote on Instagram, "Rest in peace chef," alongside a black and white photo of Anne. "I am so incredibly sad to hear of the passing of my friend @AnneBurrell today!" tweeted RuPaul's Drag Race star Ginger Minj. "I hope you are rocking out and cooking up a feast tonight!" Finally, Loni Love, who appeared on Worst Cooks, said Anne's death left her in "shock and sorrow." She continued, "She was a gifted chef, and an extraordinary person. Chef Anne was the same on and off camera. She would just check on me out the blue. I will miss her tremendously. My condolences to her husband, family, & fans. Rest Chef." Also in Celebrity: If You Get 20/30 On This Difficult '90s Music Quiz, Then You Honestly Know Your Stuff!!! Also in Celebrity: 17 Actors Who Said "No" To Nudity And Sex Scenes Out Of Respect For Their Partners, Families, Religion, And More Also in Celebrity: 22 Absolutely Bonkers Things I've Learned About Old Hollywood Celebs That Made My Jaw Hit The Floor
Los Angeles Times
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Foodies invited to Relish Newport Beach this summer
Orange County resident and celebrity chef Jamie Gwen is used to a little heat in the kitchen, so she wasn't daunted by the idea of creating the ambitious Relish: A Food, Wine & Spirits Experience coming to Newport Beach this June. 'This is years in the making and now what started out as a plan for a single event has grown into a weekend experience,' Gwen said. Co-created by Gwen and event planner Nicole Hirsty of Cobalt Events, the weekend-long food festival aims to bring back the culinary celebration that has been missed in the absence of Newport Beach Food & Wine. 'This a huge venture because I was involved and woven into the fabric of Newport Beach Food & Wine and it had a great run,' said Gwen. The festival was rebranded as Newport Beach Wine & Food, an elevated restaurant showcase with a culinary stage hosted by Gwen; but after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event took a pause. 'I love living in Orange County and I believe that we do have a culinary scene and we do deserve an elevated, bespoke and extraordinary gastronomic event,' Gwen said. 'That is what Relish is set to be.' Debuting June 27 to 29 at VEA Newport Beach, Relish will present top-tier chefs, sommeliers, mixologists and spirits experts over three days. Gwen, who has enjoyed a career as a chef and radio and television personality, tapped celebrity chef friends and colleagues she has connected with throughout her career to join the event. 'I started calling my chef friends and saying 'Hey, I want to bring to Newport Beach what we do in Aspen and South Beach, will you come?' And they said yes.' The event begins on Friday, June 27, with an opening cocktail reception followed by a private dinner with Scott Conant, a chef, restaurateur and cookbook author best known as a judge on the reality TV cooking series, 'Chopped.' The fun continues the next day with master classes and tastings from some of the industry's best leaders. Chef Gale Gand will kick it off, teaching Chocolate 101. 'Gale Gand is a living legend in the pastry world and an incredibly talented teacher,' said Gwen. Cheesemaster Afrim Pristine will share knowledge on West Coast cheeses from British Columbia to San Diego while winemakers, Chris Kajani of Bouchaine Vineyards Napa and Bob Cabral of Bob Cabral Wines will host separate wine sessions. Mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim will lead a class pairing vodka and Petrossian caviar; Aarti Sequeira, Indian American cook and winner of the sixth season of Food Network's competition show, 'The Next Food Network Star,' will host a session on spices. The evening's festivities will close out with chef and Food Network show host Tyler Florence serving a four-course curated dinner paired with wine, though not before guests enjoy a 12-foot cheese and charcuterie display by Pristine. 'We are very excited to have Scott Conant and Tyler Florence headlining, both of which are very long time Food Network stars,' said Gwen. On June 29, Relish will pair sushi alongside a doughnuts and churros station for 'A Live Doughnuts + Sushi Brunch Experience' and the weekend will end with an afternoon session dedicated to wellness, focusing on both mind and body rejuvenation. 'In all this indulgence, there has to be a time and place to take care of oneself,' Gwen said. The James Beard Foundation will serve as Relish's charity partner with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the foundation's Good Food for Good mission. Support also comes from Visit Newport Beach. 'Visit Newport Beach is the greatest champion of bringing experiences to residents of Newport Beach and beyond and making Newport Beach a destination,' Gwen said. While this will be the inaugural Relish, she is confident it will not be the last. 'We intend to continue to grow it and we have interest from another big name talent that is much beloved already lined up for 2026, so [that's even more of a] reason to reserve your space now and make it it an annual event,' said Gwen. Individual tickets for master classes and event packages are now available at 'The intent with this weekend, is to sip and savor and relish the moment,' said Gwen.
Forbes
29-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
17 Spring-Inspired Cocktails To Enjoy This Easter
Easter is such a fun time of year, the sun is shining and the weather is warm and bright. We celebrate the season with bunnies and baskets of candy or designer eggs, and the mood is all about pretty pastels. Shouldn't all this colorful fun also be reflected in our holiday libations? Whether planning a picnic gathering or a family brunch on Easter Sunday, these spring inspired cocktails are sure to set the tone for a bright and festive day. Flower Child at Scott Conant's The Americano in Atlanta, Georgia. Found at Scott Conant's The Americano in Atlanta, Georgia, this cocktail is made with Botanist Gin, maraschino liqueur, Crème de Violette, and lemon juice. It's meant to be floral and flirty, with a balance of botanicals and bright citrus. Bad Bunny at Powder at Waldorf Astoria Park City. At Powder at Waldorf Astoria Park City, this cocktail is made with High West Double Rye, fresh carrot juice, Aperol, Domaine de Canton, honey, lemon, and a salted rim. Claire Swift, Director of Food & Beverage said: 'The Bad Bunny is our take on a traditional spring cocktail with a bit of a twist. We use High West Double Rye, fresh carrot juice, Aperol, Domaine de Canton, honey, and lemon and the salted rim adds just the right balance and brings out all of the flavors. It's a great way to toast Easter weekend. With its vibrant orange color and creative name, it's as Instagrammable as it is delicious!' Champagne for Breakfast at Le me at The Global Ambassador Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona. Available at Le me at The Global Ambassador Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona, this cocktail is inspired by the season, with subtle flavors of peach, clover honey and apricot with sparkling wine. 'Champagne for Breakfast is sunrise in a glass, turning any breakfast into a bright and lively celebration,' said Sean Traynor, beverage director at The Global Ambassador. 'It's a sip of springtime that captures the brightness of orchard fruits, blending tangy peach and pomegranate with the richness of clover honey, while sparkling wine adds a light, refreshing touch.' Paschal Martini at The Stand in New York. At The Stand in New York, the Paschal Martini is made with Fords gin, Carpano bitter, oat milk, butterfly pea flower, and olive oil. "This martini doesn't just look like an Easter egg; it's a whole springtime celebration in a glass," said Deena Sayers, Beverage Director. The Orchard at Hearth and Hill in Park City. At Hearth and Hill in Park City, Utah, the Orchard cocktail is made with Applejack, apricot liqueur, blanc vermouth, and grenadine, a sweet and refreshing option for spring. Mike Fayad, General Manager said: 'Syrups are becoming rather dated as companies continue to put compelling, fruit-based liqueurs into the market. These liqueurs are pretty far removed from some of the big brands' domination of this space (think DeKuyper). Applejack has been in production since 1780 and we wanted to lean into that orchard fruit characteristic of that spirit by complementing it with Giffard Abricot du Rousillon, made from real apricots in the south of France.' Pearly Dew Drops at Urban Hill in Salt Lake City, Utah. At Urban Hill in Salt Lake City, Utah, a delicate take on a lemon drop martini, this cocktail combines Sugar House Vodka, Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao, Italicus, beeswax, and lemon. Dawson Jenkins, bartender said: 'The best part of my job isn't just crafting scrumptious drinks—no no, it's showing everyone how to have a good time. Pearly Dew Drops is all of the best parts of hospitality distilled into a tasty beverage. This Lemon Drop riff is bright and approachable, yet holds a depth that reveals itself when you lean in. The drink's name is a nod to musical artist The Cocteau Twins—because who doesn't love a little ethereal essence to get us through this life?' Easter Paloma at Verde at Peréz Art Museum Miami. At Verde, the waterfront restaurant tucked behind the Peréz Art Museum Miami, the Easter Paloma combines Patron tequila with lime juice, rose syrup, sweet agave and grapefruit juice. Meghan Rodriguez, the bartender, said: 'I wanted to create something that feels like a sip of spring - bright, citrusy, and a little unexpected. The rose syrup adds a delicate floral note that makes this Easter Paloma stand out, while the lemon twist gives it a fresh, elegant finish.' Jasmine Vine at SuViche in Miami. At SuViche in Miami, a citric and floral cocktail made with jasmine infused vodka, yuzu and agave. "The Jasmine Vine cocktail is the perfect cocktail for spring. It is light, bright and has bold floral and citrus notes that capture the season in a glass. In Miami, we may not have traditional seasons, but this jasmine-infused vodka, paired with vibrant yuzu and a touch of agave, brings just the right kind of springtime energy and is made for sipping in the sunshine," said Maria Cuesta, Bar Manager at SuViche Wynwood. Carrot-Tini at OASES Restaurant and Bar in New York. At OASES Restaurant and Bar in New York City, the Carrot-Tini is made with gin, carrot juice, honey, allspice, lemon, and turmeric. "We do everything mindfully here and our Carrot-tini is no exception as a spring awakening in a glass. Light, refreshing, and kissed with the golden warmth of turmeric. It's Easter in a perfect sip and a great drink to enjoy during our coveted Golden Hour and Easter Brunch," said Sonam Sangmo, Partner and Creative Director at OASES. Berry Fizz at Mission Ceviche in New York City. At Mission Ceviche in Union Square and Upper East Side, a strawberry and cherry blend with lemon, topped with rose bubbly with a rim of dehydrated berries, sugar and peep. "Like an Easter morning, this cocktail evokes the sweet scent of berries and the playful anticipation of an egg hunt, all wrapped in the charm of a holiday symbolized by the bunny," said bartender Eduardo Astudillo. The Lady O at Okaru in Roslyn, Long Island. At Okaru, the recently opened modern Japanese restaurant in Roslyn, Long Island, a Japanese-inspired twist on the classic Porn Star Martini, this cocktail blends shochu, yuzu soju, passion fruit purée and vanilla. Two ounces of sparkling sake on the side make this a light and effervescent cocktail for spring. Easter Blossom at Jade bar at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney's Resort in ... More Scottsdale. At Jade bar at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney's Resort in Scottsdale, a vibrant fusion of Ketel One Peach & Orange Blossom Vodka, Finest Call Blood Orange mix, and fresh lemon juice is brightened by the warmth of Bittermens Ginger Bitters. 'Growing up in the Midwest I always remember the sweet smells of spring and the trees blooming in my backyard. This inspired me to use a spirit with notes of peach and orange, adding a hint of citrus. The blood orange paired with the ginger bitter notes creates a fresh, crisp, and balanced spring cocktail," said Brady Pankow, Director of Outlets. Bright Eyed & Bushy Tailed at The Banks Seafood & Steak in Boston. This cocktail is made with vodka, carrot, ginger, turmeric, lemon at The Banks Seafood & Steak in Boston's historic Back Bay. "This fun, Easter cocktail grew out of a Brunch beverage I would make for my family when looking for a healthy (-ish) drink to start the day off. I always loved the combination of carrot, ginger and turmeric as a way to wake up the palate in the morning with a drink full of spice. We added some citrus and a little sweetness to round out the drink. I like to think of it as the overachieving, well-to-do, more mature sibling of the Screwdriver and Bloody Mary," said Ben Chesna, Beverage Director of Himmel Hospitality Group. Wabbit Smash at Whiskey Cake Kitchen + Bar. At Whiskey Cake Kitchen + Bar, the Wabbit Smash, this cocktail involves Ford's Gin, Barrow's Intense Ginger, lemon and honey keep things smooth and balanced, and a handful of mint. 'The Wabbit Smash is the kind of cocktail that makes spring feel official. The mix of freshly juiced carrot, ginger, and mint gives it a garden-fresh twist, while the gin and honey bring just the right balance. Whether you're celebrating Easter or just soaking up a sunny day, this one's got 'spring vibes' written all over it," said Ben Woodring, Vice President of Operations for Whiskey Cake Kitchen + Bar. Burning Gold at Craft & Commerce in San Diego. At Craft & Commerce in San Diego, Burning Gold is a bright, savory, bloody-esque cocktail made with mezcal, carrot escabeche, cilantro, chile and lime. Its bright orange color and champagne glass resemble a carrot, making it perfect for celebrating Easter. 'Burning Gold is a bit of a love letter to our local taco shops - staples of San Diegan sustenance. We borrowed some cues from their salsa bars, attempting to capture some of the bold and refreshing flavors of complimentary pickled carrots to pair with mezcal. The result is a sippable hot sauce made by blending carrot juice with achiote paste, jalapeno, Mexican oregano and a touch of champagne vinegar,' said Leigh Lacap, Research and Development at CH Projects. Paschal Essence at Blue Restaurant at Eden Roc Cap Cana. At Blue Restaurant at Eden Roc Cap Cana, a sip that blends the passion of mezcal with the sweetness of white cacao and the freshness of strawberry. Its red color symbolizes rebirth, while the rosemary and orange add a fresh, floral touch.'The Paschal Essence cocktail is a toast to the awakening of life. The delicate balance of freshness and sweetness is perfect for celebrating the beauty of spring's rebirth," said Mathew Chanto, Bar Manager. Bunny Mary at Over Easy in Scottsdale. At Over Easy in Scottsdale, Arizona, the seasonal Bunny Mary is a fresh, veggie-forward version of the classic Bloody Mary cocktail made with organic carrot juice and pearl vodka, garnished with raw carrots, celery, and a Tajín rim for a savory, spicy twist. 'We created the Bunny Mary to celebrate the freshness of spring with a unique twist. The star ingredient, organic carrot juice, gives the classic Bloody Mary a lighter, more vibrant feel—perfect for the season," said Ryan Field, co-owner of Over Easy.
