Fedele (Phil) J. Panzarino

Fedele (Phil) Panzarino passed away peacefully on the evening of Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Born in the Bronx, New York, to Vito and Angelina Panzarino, Phil’s love for cooking was nurtured from a young age by his mother, sparking a passion that would define his life’s work.

Phil pursued higher education in the culinary arts and quickly distinguished himself as a master of his craft. He was recruited by Restaurant Associates, where his extraordinary talent led him to work at renowned establishments such as the Four Seasons. He also served as head chef at what is now Terrace on the Park, overseeing the preparation of more than 22,000 meals daily during the World's Fair.

Beyond the kitchen, Phil was an educator and mentor, sharing his expertise as a professor at New York College of Technology in Brooklyn. His guidance helped shape some of today’s premier chefs, leaving an enduring legacy in the culinary world. Never one to remain idle, he later founded FJP Associates, a restaurant consulting firm, where he continued to influence and elevate the industry he so dearly loved.

Phil is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley, and his devoted sons, Philip (Christine) and Richard. He was a proud grandfather to Nicholas and Gianna and is also remembered fondly by his many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his cherished parents, Vito and Angelina, as well as his dear siblings, Pasquale (Pat), Domenica, Rose, and Angelina (Lea).

Phil’s passion for cooking, dedication to teaching, and unwavering love for his family will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, both in and out of the kitchen.

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