Roberto ‘Loli’ Linguanotto, the pastry chef who created 'Tiramisu', no more

Roberto “Loli” Linguanotto, the celebrated pastry chef widely regarded as the co-creator of the iconic Italian dessert Tiramisu, recently passed away at the age of 81. Linguanotto died on July 28, 2024, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the culinary world. He worked at Le Beccherie, a renowned restaurant in Treviso, northern Italy, which is often credited as the birthplace of Tiramisu.

While the exact origins of Tiramisu are a subject of debate, many believe that Chef Linguanotto, along with Alba di Pillo, the wife of the restaurant's owner, crafted what is now considered the classic version of the dessert. Their collaboration resulted in a treat that became a symbol of Italian culinary excellence.

Luca Zaia, President of the Veneto Region, paid tribute to the late chef on Instagram, stating, “I join in mourning for the passing of Roberto ‘Loli’ Linguanotto, pastry chef who marked the breakthrough of the Trevigiana and Veneta pastry shop by rediscovering and relaunching Tiramisu, a traditional product today of culinary excellence recognized worldwide. The credit for the success of such a scale also goes to his pastry mastery and his willingness to make our Venetian delicacy unique and inimitable. To his family and friends, as well as those who appreciated him, my closeness and sympathy go to him.”

According to the BBC, Chef Linguanotto revealed that Tiramisu was created by accident while he was making vanilla ice cream. He accidentally dropped mascarpone cheese into a bowl of eggs and sugar and found the mixture’s taste pleasant. Linguanotto shared the accidental creation with Alba di Pillo, and they decided to enhance it by adding ladyfinger sponges soaked in coffee and sprinkled with cocoa, resulting in the dessert beloved by many today.

Le Beccherie’s website notes that Tiramisu was the product of extensive experimentation by Alba di Pillo and Chef Linguanotto between 1971 and 1972. Alba was inspired to create the dessert after tasting a delightful combination of zabaglione and coffee prepared by her mother-in-law. Together, she and Linguanotto perfected the recipe, with the original Tiramisu at Le Beccherie being circular in shape.
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The first official mention of Tiramisu as we know it today appeared in a 1981 issue of Veneto, a local food publication. Gigi Padovani, a renowned Italian journalist and food writer, highlighted that it was the Venetians who popularised the dessert globally, bringing it to the attention of food enthusiasts worldwide.
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Roberto “Loli” Linguanotto's contribution to the culinary world extends beyond the creation of Tiramisu. His dedication to his craft and his ability to transform simple ingredients into a world-renowned dessert have left an indelible mark on the food industry. His legacy lives on through the millions of people who enjoy Tiramisu, whether as a comforting treat or a luxurious dessert.
As we remember Chef Linguanotto, we celebrate not only his culinary achievements but also the joy and delight he brought to countless people through his creations. His story is a testament to the creativity and passion that define the culinary arts, reminding us that sometimes, the most beloved dishes can come from unexpected beginnings.
(Images courtesy: Canva & Instagram/@robertololilinguanotto)