San Diego Culinary Community Devastated by Tragic Loss of Gianna Isabella Buzzetta, Acclaimed Pastry Chef at Michelin-Starred Jeune et Jolie, Following Fatal Hiking Accident in Hawaii

SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego culinary world is in shock after the tragic passing of Gianna Isabella Buzzetta, a rising star in the culinary industry. The 26-year-old executive pastry chef, renowned for her work at the Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie in Carlsbad, passed away on March 24, 2025, following a heartbreaking hiking accident at Makaleha Falls Trail in Kapa‘a, Hawaii.

Buzzetta, who had made a name for herself with her innovative desserts and exceptional skill, was beloved by colleagues and friends in the industry. She was a beacon of creativity and passion in the kitchen, known for her meticulous attention to detail and dedication to her craft. Her artistry elevated Jeune et Jolie to new heights, earning accolades and recognition for both the restaurant and herself.

The tragic accident took place while Buzzetta was hiking with friends, an outdoor activity she had reportedly enjoyed in her free time. The circumstances surrounding her death are still under investigation, but the loss has left the culinary community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from all corners of the industry.

A Bright Future Cut Short

Buzzetta’s remarkable career was marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence. After earning her culinary degree, she honed her craft in some of the finest kitchens in the United States before joining Jeune et Jolie, where she became the executive pastry chef. Her ability to blend flavors and textures in new and exciting ways made her desserts a key component of the restaurant’s success. Her work was described as both visually stunning and delicious, a perfect reflection of her passion for food.

“She had an extraordinary talent and an even greater heart,” said a fellow chef who worked with Buzzetta at Jeune et Jolie. “She had a way of making everyone around her better, and she always brought a sense of joy and purpose to the kitchen. It’s hard to believe she’s gone.”

Buzzetta’s talents were not limited to the kitchen; she was also a mentor to many young chefs, offering guidance and support to those who looked up to her. Her impact on the San Diego culinary scene was profound, and her passing has left a void that will be felt for years to come.

Tributes and Remembering Gianna

As news of her death spread, tributes began to flood in from colleagues, mentors, and friends, all remembering Buzzetta for her talent, kindness, and infectious energy. Social media platforms were flooded with posts celebrating her life and work, with many sharing fond memories of her time in the kitchen and beyond.

Buzzetta’s family, including her parents and siblings, are understandably devastated by the loss. In a statement released by her family, they expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community.

“Our hearts are broken,” the family said. “Gianna was a beautiful soul, and her passion for life was evident in everything she did. We ask for privacy as we grieve the loss of our beloved daughter and sister. We will cherish her memory forever.”

A Celebration of Her Life

Plans are currently underway for a celebration of Buzzetta’s life, with family, friends, and colleagues coming together to honor her legacy. Those who knew her best are committed to ensuring that her spirit lives on through the work she left behind, the people she mentored, and the lasting impact she had on the culinary world.

For those who wish to pay their respects, a memorial service is scheduled to take place in San Diego, where Buzzetta’s life and career will be celebrated by the many who had the privilege of working alongside her.

The Loss Felt Beyond the Kitchen

Though her life was tragically cut short, Gianna Isabella Buzzetta’s influence will continue to be felt in kitchens across the country. Her passion, dedication, and artistry have left an indelible mark on the culinary world, and her legacy will live on in the desserts she crafted, the chefs she mentored, and the joy she brought to everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

As the San Diego culinary community grieves, it will also remember the young woman who poured her heart into every plate she created and brought beauty to life with every dessert she made.