We’ll be sobbing into our spaghetti carbonara tonight as it’s just been announced that the Italian chef Antonio Carluccio has sadly passed away.
The 80-year-old was the founder of the popular high street chain of restaurants, whose distinctive blue awnings are recognisable in cities all over the country.
Antonio’s life as a restaurateur began in 1999, and his career in cookery spanned over five decades.
A statement from his agent said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Commendatore Antonio Carluccio OBE sadly passed away this morning.”
Some will also remember his TV show with fellow Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo, the brilliantly titled Two Greedy Italians.
Antonio also published more than a dozen books on the art of cooking, as well as a heart-rending memoir, published in 2012.
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It was especially difficult for him to write as it dealt with the depression he had felt after the death of his brother in 1960 – which still tormented him decades later.
Antonio was also responsible for opening the famous Neal Street restaurant in Covent Garden, London, which is where Jamie Oliver began his professional career.
The master chef was also awarded the Italian equivalent of a knighthood, known as the Commendatore, in 1998 for services rendered to Italy.
This was followed up by an OBE from The Queen in 2007 for services to the catering industry.
Food lovers took to Twitter to share their sadness. One wrote: “How sad, one of my favourite TV chefs. Ciao Antonio.”
While another couldn’t hold back their emotion, writing: “Am sat in a car park in tears. He was amazing. Oh my.”
No official cause of death has been given yet.
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Rest in peace Antonio, and we shall think of you and raise a toast the next time we enjoy some sumptuous Italian cuisine!