Celebrity chef, Mario Batali
Celebrity chef Mario Batali stepped away from his eponymous gastronomic empire Monday, after multiple women accused him of sexual misconduct over the course of at least two decades.
In allegations published by the food website Eater, four women speaking on condition of anonymity said Batali — recognizable for his generous physique, flaming red ponytail and signature orange Croc shoes — groped them and made inappropriate comments.
One of the most famous figures in American cuisine, the 57-year-old Italian-American is a popular TV personality whose empire includes 26 establishments nationwide, as well as cookbooks, cookware and food products.
Controlled by private shareholders, the group does not publish its accounts but US media has estimated its worth to be at least $250 million.
Three of the women interviewed by Eater worked for Batali’s restaurant conglomerate.
Chef Mario Batali Leaves Food Empire Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations
