Nadia Santini, the pioneering Italian chef who earned three Michelin stars at the historic restaurant Dal Pescatore in Runate, Canneto sull’Oglio, died on November 2, 2026, at the age of 72. She was the first female chef in Italy to attain the Michelin guide’s highest rating, maintaining the distinction uninterruptedly since 1996.
Family Announcement and Tributes from Dal Pescatore
The family shared the news through the restaurant’s Instagram account, stating that Santini passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones. “Nadia, surrounded by her dearest affections, fell asleep in peace and ascended to heaven,” the family wrote in the statement. “She carved a deep furrow in our lives directed toward sensitivity, empathy, and love. We are grateful to her for educating us in moral rigor, the work ethic, and simplicity. Thank you Nadia, thank you Mamma.”
Santini had lived with an illness for about twenty years, a struggle known to her husband and co-proprietor, Antonio Santini, who described the loss coming amid ongoing health battles. The chef passed away at age 72, following a career at the helm of the Mantovan institution.
From Humble Beginnings to Culinary History
Born Nadia Cavaliere in 1954 in San Pietro Mussolino, in the Vicenza area, she grew up in a family of farmers with humble origins. After studying food science at a women’s technical institute, she met Antonio Santini, marrying him in 1974 and entering the kitchen of the family business originally founded in 1925 as a simple inn along the Oglio river.
🔴 "Nadia, circondata dai suoi più cari affetti, si è addormentata nella pace ed è salita in cielo. Ha tracciato un solco profondo nelle nostre vite volto alla Sensibilità, all’Empatia e all’Amore. Le siamo grati per averci educato al rigore morale, all’etica del lavoro e alla… pic.twitter.com/m88AoanAmZ”
Working as a self-taught cook, Santini honed her skills alongside her mother-in-law, Bruna, combining an innate talent with rigorous study of local ingredients. The restaurant navigated difficult early periods with empty dining rooms during the transition to fine dining before achieving its first major milestone, earning its first Michelin star in 1982, followed by the second in 1988, and the third in 1996.
Global Recognition and Signature Dishes
Under Santini’s direction, Dal Pescatore became the longest-retaining three-star restaurant in Italy, anchoring its menu in the culinary traditions of the Po Valley and Mantovan territory. Signature preparations such as agnoli in broth, pumpkin tortelli, risotti, and freshwater fish dishes became symbols of Italian cuisine worldwide.
In 2013, Santini received international acclaim when she was named Veuve Clicquot World’s Best Female Chef during The World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards. The Michelin Guide later awarded her the Chef Mentor title in 2022 for her contributions to training new generations of cooks. The restaurant also joined prestigious circuits including Relais et Châteaux and Le Soste.
The Future of Dal Pescatore in Runate
The culinary and familial legacy of Dal Pescatore passes to the next generation. Santini leaves behind her husband Antonio and their sons Giovanni, born in 1976 and currently serving as chef of the restaurant, and Alberto, born in 1983, who works in the dining room.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nadia Santini
When did Dal Pescatore receive its third Michelin star?
Dal Pescatore was awarded its third Michelin star in 1996, making Nadia Santini the first female chef in Italy to achieve the rating.
Where was Nadia Santini born?
Nadia Santini was born in San Pietro Mussolino, in the Vicenza province, in 1954 to a family of farmers.
Who currently runs the Dal Pescatore restaurant?
The restaurant is managed by her husband, Antonio Santini, alongside their sons Giovanni, who works as the chef, and Alberto, who works in the dining room.
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