Anne Burrell

American chef and television personality

Anne Burrell speaking at an event

Anne W. Burrell (born September 21, 1969) is an American chef, television personality, and former instructor at the Institute of Culinary Education. She is best known for her work on the Food Network shows Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and Worst Cooks in America. Burrell has also appeared on other cooking shows and has authored several cookbooks.

Early life and education

Anne Burrell was born and raised in Cazenovia, New York. She developed an interest in cooking at a young age, inspired by her mother's home-cooked meals. Burrell attended Canisius College in Buffalo, New York, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Communications. Her passion for cooking led her to enroll at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York, where she graduated with an Associate in Occupational Studies degree.

Career

Early career

After graduating from the CIA, Burrell worked at several restaurants in New York City, including the famous Felidia under chef Lidia Bastianich. She then moved to Italy to further hone her culinary skills, working in various restaurants in the region of Emilia-Romagna.

Television career

Burrell's television career began when she was hired as a sous chef for Mario Batali on the show Iron Chef America. Her dynamic personality and expertise in Italian cuisine quickly made her a standout figure on the show. This exposure led to her own show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which premiered on the Food Network in 2008. The show focused on teaching viewers how to create restaurant-quality dishes at home.

In 2010, Burrell became a co-host of Worst Cooks in America, a reality cooking competition that aims to transform kitchen novices into competent cooks. Her role on the show further solidified her reputation as a skilled chef and engaging television personality.

Other ventures

In addition to her television work, Burrell has authored several cookbooks, including Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire & Empower. These books reflect her philosophy of making cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Burrell has also been involved in various culinary events and festivals, where she shares her expertise and passion for cooking with audiences around the country.

Personal life

Anne Burrell is known for her distinctive spiky blonde hair and vibrant personality. She is openly gay and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. In 2012, she publicly confirmed her relationship with her then-girlfriend, and in 2021, she married Stuart Claxton in a ceremony held in her hometown of Cazenovia.

Related pages

• Food Network
• Iron Chef America
• Culinary Institute of America
• Lidia Bastianich