Is Lidia Bastianich Mother Still Alive? When Did She Pass Away?
by Aishwarya R
Updated May 22, 2023
Who is Lidia Bastianich?
Lidia Giuliana Matticchio Bastianich, is a name that resonates with passion, flavor, and the celebration of Italian cuisine. Born on February 21, 1947, in the vibrant city of Pola, Istria, Lidia's culinary journey began amidst a backdrop of diverse cultural influences. It was a time of transformation, as Istria transitioned from the Kingdom of Italy to its incorporation into Yugoslavia.
In the midst of this ever-changing landscape, Lidia's love affair with food bloomed. Her parents, Erminia and Vittorio Matticchio, instilled in her a deep appreciation for the rich flavors and traditions of their Italian heritage. Together, they weathered the storm of uncertainty, eventually finding solace in Trieste, Italy. Under the guise of visiting a sick aunt, Lidia, her mother, and her brother embarked on a journey that would forever shape their destinies.
Trieste became a haven, a place where Lidia's culinary passion flourished. She absorbed the vibrant aromas, the symphony of tastes, and the stories shared through each dish. Life wasn't easy, as they found refuge in the Risiera di San Sabba, a stark reminder of the challenges they had overcome. Yet, amidst the hardships, Lidia's spirit remained undeterred.
Opportunity knocked on the doors of the United States, beckoning Lidia and her family to embark on a new adventure. In 1958, they arrived in North Bergen, New Jersey, before finding their forever home in the bustling neighborhood of Astoria, Queens, in the heart of New York City. This vibrant metropolis would become the backdrop for Lidia's culinary dreams to unfold.
With unwavering determination and an unwavering love for her Italian roots, Lidia immersed herself in the world of gastronomy. Her journey took her from the bustling kitchens of her family's restaurants to the bright lights of television studios. Lidia's infectious passion, warmth, and genuine love for food captivated audiences worldwide.
Through her numerous television shows, from her early contributions to public television cooking shows to the launch of her own masterpiece, Lidia's Kitchen, she shared her culinary wisdom and transported viewers to the heart of Italy. With each dish prepared, Lidia wove together the tapestry of her heritage, honoring the traditions passed down through generations.
Restaurants like Felidia, Del Posto, and Becco became temples of taste, where Lidia's culinary prowess delighted discerning palates. Partnering with her daughter Tanya Bastianich Manuali and her son Joe Bastianich, Lidia's restaurants became beacons of Italian culinary excellence, offering a symphony of flavors to be savored.
But Lidia's impact extended far beyond the walls of her restaurants. As a partner in Eataly, she brought the spirit of Italy to the bustling streets of New York City, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and even São Paulo, Brazil. Her mission was clear: to share the love and passion for Italian cuisine with the world.
Lidia Bastianich, a culinary luminary, has left an indelible mark on the hearts and palates of countless food enthusiasts. Her dedication, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of excellence have shaped the culinary landscape and ignited a flame in the hearts of aspiring chefs and home cooks alike.
Is Lidia Bastianich Mother Still Alive?
No, Lidia Bastianich's mother is dead. In 2021, Chef Lidia Bastianich's fans were heartbroken when she took to social media to share the devastating news of her mother's passing. Lidia, known for her PBS shows, revealed on Twitter that her beloved mother, Erminia Bastianich, affectionately known as "Grandma," had peacefully passed away at home with Lidia and their immediate family a few days prior.
Lidia expressed her intention to dedicate many of her future posts to her late mother as they navigate this difficult time together. Grandma Erminia played a significant role in Lidia's shows, particularly Lidia's Italy, where she would often offer tips and share memories that added a touch of tradition to Lidia's recipes. Her presence resonated with viewers, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
Fans expressed their condolences and shared their own experiences of watching Lidia's shows over the years, with one Twitter user reminiscing about feeling like a child again while watching Grandma's appearances and learning from her wisdom. Erminia Mattichio, a former school teacher in what is now Croatia, gave birth to Lidia in 1947. The family resided in Pula until 1956 when they made the decision to escape communist Yugoslavia and seek refuge in Italy.
Erminia, along with her children Lidia and Franco, embarked on a train journey to Trieste, using the pretense of visiting a sick relative. It took time before Erminia was reunited with her husband, Vittorio, Lidia's father. They initially lived with a relative before eventually settling in a refugee camp. With the assistance of Catholic Relief Services, Erminia and Vittorio successfully brought their children to the United States, where they settled in New York.
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Grandma remained a presence in the public eye as Lidia chose to quarantine with her. In a previous interview with Time Out, Lidia shared that Grandma, even at 99 years old, remained alert and enjoyed engaging in a good game of cards while expecting delicious meals. Fans expressed their joy at Grandma's well-being and confessed to tuning into Lidia's shows because of the endearing presence of Grandma.
When Did Lidia Bastianich Mother Pass Away?
Chef Lidia Bastianich’s beloved mother, Erminia, passed away on February 14, 2021, at the age of 100. Erminia was a prominent figure on Lidia's PBS culinary shows, and her warm presence and constant support deeply influenced Lidia's work and family. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Lidia and her mother remained safely inside their New York City home, cherishing their time together.
Erminia often made appearances on Lidia's programs, bringing joy to viewers with her radiant smile. In a 2019 interview with TimeOut, Lidia spoke about their experience staying home together. She lovingly mentioned that her 99-year-old mother was still alert and enjoyed playing cards while expecting delicious meals, especially when her daughter, the renowned chef, was in the kitchen.
Their messages on social media expressed gratitude for Grandma's safety and good health, with one user emphasizing the importance of coming together at the table to enjoy food and celebrate life. On Lidia's website, she shared the wisdom that her mother had imparted to her over the years. Lidia's upbringing in a small city on the Istrian Peninsula, now part of Croatia, involved helping her grandmother with meal preparations and tending to orchards and vineyards. However, their lives were overshadowed by the suffocating Communist regime, and they eventually had to flee.
Lidia's family sought refuge in Trieste, Italy, where they spent two years in a refugee camp. In 2015, Lidia recounted the events, revealing that her father foresaw the circumstances and arranged for them to leave. Although the Communists refused to let the entire family depart, keeping one member behind as a deterrent, they eventually received their US visas. They first settled in northern New Jersey before making their way to New York City.
In a YouTube video, Lidia shared her mother's words of wisdom, spoken in the past tense. Erminia reflected on the transient nature of life, stating, "We all came from the ground, and we will return to the ground. This way, the process of life is similar to that of plants, more or less." Lidia Bastianich's mother, Erminia, may no longer be with us, but her loving influence and the memories they created together will forever be cherished.
Lidia Bastianich Mother Obituary
Erminia held a special place in Lidia's shows, capturing the essence of tradition, warmth, and nostalgia. Her infectious smile, gentle demeanor, and unwavering support endeared her to countless viewers. Grandma Erminia's presence added an extra layer of love and authenticity to Lidia's Italy, as she shared her wisdom, tips, and treasured memories, imparting a sense of connection to the past and a deeper appreciation for family and heritage.
Born Erminia Mattichio in what is now Croatia, Erminia dedicated her life to nurturing and guiding her family. She was a pillar of strength, teaching her children Lidia and Franco the importance of resilience and the value of love and togetherness. Her unwavering determination led the family to embark on a journey, leaving behind a suffocating regime to seek a better future.
Erminia's courage and resourcefulness shone through as she orchestrated their escape, leading them to Italy, where they found refuge and began rebuilding their lives. Erminia's unwavering love and support for Lidia continued throughout the years, and their bond grew even stronger as they faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic together.
Lidia chose to quarantine with her beloved mother, cherishing every moment they shared. Despite the circumstances, Erminia remained vibrant and "alert," as Lidia fondly shared, finding joy in simple pleasures like playing cards and savoring delicious meals prepared by her talented daughter. To Lidia's fans, Erminia became a cherished figure—a beacon of comfort, wisdom, and familiarity.
Many tuned in to Lidia's shows, not only to learn new recipes but also to witness the radiant presence of Grandma Erminia, who effortlessly transported them back to their own childhoods, evoking memories of family gatherings and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
Today, as we bid farewell to Erminia Bastianich, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life that touched the hearts of many and left an enduring legacy. We honor her resilience, her love, and her unwavering spirit. While she may no longer grace our screens, her spirit lives on through the memories she created and the love she shared.
To Lidia and the entire Bastianich family, we extend our deepest condolences and support during this difficult time. May you find solace in the cherished memories you shared with Erminia and in the knowledge that her spirit will forever be with you. As Lidia once said, "Food, love, family, and tradition—these are what matter most." Erminia's legacy will continue to inspire and remind us all of the profound importance of these cherished values.
Lidia Bastianich Age
As of 2023, Lidia Bastianich is 76 years old. In the whimsical dance of life, destiny played its hand when Lidia Bastianich met the love of her life, Felice "Felix" Bastianich, at her enchanting sweet sixteen birthday party. Their hearts intertwined, bound by a shared heritage and a passion for food. It was a love story that would shape their lives and leave an everlasting mark on the culinary world.
In 1966, Lidia and Felice exchanged vows, embarking on a journey of love, family, and gastronomic dreams. Their union blessed them with two beautiful children: Joe, born in 1968, and Tanya, who graced their lives in 1972. Together, they nurtured their growing family while nurturing their shared culinary ambitions.
Yet, like any great tale, Lidia and Felice faced their share of challenges and disagreements. Their paths diverged, both personally and professionally, leading them down separate roads. In 1998, they made the difficult decision to part ways, but their love for their children remained unwavering. Felice, a significant figure in their culinary empire, passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of flavors and memories.
Throughout her journey, Lidia found solace and inspiration in her beloved Queens neighborhood of Douglaston. It was here, in the warmth of her home, that she created culinary masterpieces and shared them with the world through her television series. The heart of her kitchen became a stage where the magic of cooking unfolded, with her cherished mother, Erminia Motika, always by her side. Erminia, affectionately known as "grandma," lent her expertise as a sous-chef and filled the air with love and laughter.
The bonds of family run deep in the Bastianich bloodline. Joe Bastianich, Lidia's son, brings his expertise in wine to his mother's series, adding a touch of sophistication and flair. His wife, Deanna, and their three children grace the vibrant streets of New York City, creating memories and carrying on the family legacy.
And then there is Tanya Bastianich Manuali, a beacon of passion and dedication in her own right. With her husband Corrado Manuali and their two children, she resides just a stone's throw away from her mother's abode. Tanya's indomitable spirit shines through as an owner and Executive Producer of Tavola Productions, bringing Lidia's television series to life.
Together, they form a formidable force in the family restaurant business, writing a new chapter in the Bastianich culinary saga. In this tapestry of love, food, and family, Lidia Bastianich's story unfolds. From the sweet memories of her youthful romance to the challenges faced and triumphs celebrated, her life is a testament to the power of passion and the enduring bonds that tie us together.
Through her culinary prowess and the warmth she exudes, Lidia has become an adored figure, an inspiration to countless food enthusiasts around the world. So let us raise our glasses, filled with the richness of flavors Lidia has shared, and toast to the love that blossomed, the family that thrived, and the delectable legacy that continues to unfold. Lidia, with her contagious smile and unwavering dedication, has woven her way into our hearts, leaving an indelible mark as a culinary matriarch and a beloved figure in the world of food.
Is Lidia Bastianich Mother Still Alive - FAQs
Lidia Bastianich is an Italian-American celebrity chef, television host, author, and restaurateur. She is renowned for her expertise in Italian and Italian-American cuisine and has been a regular contributor to public television cooking shows since 1998.
Lidia Bastianich has hosted several successful television shows throughout her career. Some of her notable shows include "Lidia's Italy," "Lidia's Family Table," "Lidia's Kitchen," and "Lidia Celebrates America." These shows have showcased her culinary skills and her passion for Italian cooking.
Lidia Bastianich has owned or co-owned several Italian restaurants across the United States. Some of the notable locations include Felidia and Becco in Manhattan, Del Posto (previously owned) in New York City, Lidia's Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh (closed in 2019), and Lidia's Kansas City in Kansas City, Missouri. She is also a partner in various Eataly locations in major cities.
Lidia Bastianich was born on February 21, 1947, in Pola, Istria (now part of Croatia). She and her family fled to Italy as refugees when Istria became part of Yugoslavia after World War II. They later immigrated to the United States, settling in North Bergen, New Jersey, and eventually Astoria, Queens in New York City.
Lidia Bastianich's family has played an integral role in her career. Her daughter, Tanya Bastianich Manuali, is actively involved in the production of Lidia's television series as an owner and Executive Producer of Tavola Productions. Lidia's son, Joe Bastianich, occasionally appears on her shows to provide wine expertise. Lidia's late ex-husband, Felice "Felix" Bastianich, was also involved in the restaurant business and co-owned several establishments with Lidia before their divorce in 1998.