Remembering Anne Burrell: A Culinary Icon And Chicago Pizza Fan

Chef and TV personality Anne Burrell died yesterday at the age of 55. As a Food Network fan, hearing about Burrell's sudden passing got me thinking about her impact on restaurants across America.

The Power of a TV Chef's Recommendation

In the same way Guy Fieri has plenty of pull, the same can be said of folks like Giada DeLaurentis, Bobby Flay, and the recently passed Anthony Bourdain. If they liked your restaurant, it was always good for business. You could say the same about Anne Burrell. So I decided to see what restaurants Burrell liked the most, and I came across this video on YouTube.

In a Best Thing I Ever Ate clip, Burrell talked about her love of Lou Malnati's pizza.

Not a Deep Dish Fan, But Still a Lou Malnati’s Devotee

Burrell called herself a "thin-crust-er" while apologizing to Chicago for not liking deep dish. I wouldn't hold that against her, as it's not for everyone. For example, Lou Malnati's Loaded Combo Pizza was Burrell's favorite pizza.

She also talked about how much she loved how Lou Malnati's cuts its pizzas in that classic way. It's tough, at least for me, as I exhibited years ago during a visit to Lou Malnati's.

Saying Goodbye to a Beloved Food Personality

Anne Burrell meant a lot to the food community. Her flair is infectious, and we wish we had more recommendations from her in the future.

Maybe I'll get a Lou Malnati's pizza tonight in remembrance.

10 Reasons Why Rockford Pizza Is The Best Pizza

Illinois' 5 Most Iconic Foods All Visitors Must Try

Every state has some food for which they're well-known. Welcome to Illinois, where we have several legendary foods. When you visit the Land of Lincoln, these are the state's most iconic foods you must try.

Gallery Credit: Steve Shannon