“There's a great need to convene at the table with family and friends. People are feeling it and wanting it. For me to be a minor player in helping with that, it makes me so happy.”

American celebrity chef, television host, author, and restaurateur

Lidia Bastianich is an American celebrity chef, television host, author, and restaurateur. She is known for her work with Italian and Italian-American cuisine, and for her long presence on public television cooking programs. Since 1998, she has been a regular contributor to public television cooking shows. Her public profile is built around food, teaching, and sharing the traditions of Italian cooking with a wide audience.