FEMALE CHEFS TO TAKE ‘ LEADERSHIP ROLES’ AT BATALI

SNACKS AND SIDES

Renowned chefs and restaurateurs Lidia Bastianich and Nancy Silverton are moving into “leadership roles” in Batali & Bastianich Hospitality Group (B&B), Eater reports.

The restaurant empire is making widespread changes following several sexual misconduct allegations against famous chef Mario Batali, and claims that business partner Joe Bastianich (Lidia’s son) played a role in fostering a “boys’ club” culture at the establishments.

Batali has since “stepped away from” operations but remains a financial partner in NYC- based restaurants such as Babbo and Del Posto.

According to Eater, the company detailed the coming adjustments in a letter dated Dec. 22, which was signed by partners Joe Bastianich, Lidia Bastianich and Silverton.

In addition to the change in leadership, the restaurant group is also reportedly planning to rebrand, which will include a name change. “Though we cannot yet address specific initiatives, we are in the process of making strategic changes in an effort to improve the culture of our organization,” Silverton said in a statement.

The Los Angeles- based chef has an established history with Batali and Joe Bastianich — they founded the Mozza Restaurant Group in 2007. Lidia Bastianich, also a successful cookbook author and TV host, has been involved with B& B properties since the group was established in 1998.