Lidia Bastianich is a renowned Italian-American chef, television host, author, and restaurateur, celebrated for her expertise in Italian and Italian-American cuisine. Her culinary journey began in 1971 when she and her family opened their first restaurant, Buonavia, in Queens, New York. As the hostess, Lidia quickly transitioned to the kitchen, honing her skills and introducing traditional Istrian dishes, which laid the foundation for her future success in the culinary world. The acclaim garnered from Buonavia led to the establishment of Villa Secondo, where she began captivating local food critics with her live cooking demonstrations.

In 1981, Lidia and her family opened Felidia, their flagship restaurant in Manhattan, which received three stars from The New York Times. This success was followed by the opening of Becco in 1993, which further solidified her reputation in the restaurant industry. Lidia’s culinary empire expanded with the launch of several other restaurants, including Lidia’s Kansas City and Lidia’s Pittsburgh, showcasing her commitment to authentic Italian cuisine and family-oriented dining experiences.

Bastianich’s television career took off in 1998 with her series Lidia’s Italian Table, establishing her as a beloved figure on public television. She has since hosted numerous cooking shows, including Lidia’s Kitchen and Lidia Celebrates America, where she explores the rich tapestry of American immigrant experiences through food. Her engaging personality and culinary expertise have made her a staple in households across the nation.

In addition to her television work, Lidia has authored several cookbooks and launched a successful line of food products under Nonna Foods. She is also a partner in Eataly, a vibrant food emporium that celebrates Italian culinary traditions. Lidia Bastianich continues to inspire and educate through her cooking, emphasizing the importance of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing meals together.