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Chef Anthony Graffeo Obituary

It's with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of a culinary legend of the ACF Epicurean Club of Boston, Chef Anthony Graffeo CEC, AAC, HOF. A dear friend, past President, Chairman and a Member Board of Directors for over 40 years.


He is survived by his wife Chef Denise Graffeo, CEC, AAC, HOF and a large family.


Chef Graffeo started working in the restaurant industry at the age of 14 as a dishwasher in the North End of Boston, working hard to support his family. His efforts paid off, as he soon received a promotion and continued to grow into a chef. During his career, he worked at some of Massachusetts’ finest locations such as: Victoria Dining Restaurant, Eastern Yacht Club, The Wharf Restaurant, Polcari’s Restaurants and The Hotel Vendome.





He was a nationally acclaimed chef with many accomplishments and awards including:


  • Induction into the American Academy of Chefs Culinary Hall of Fame 2011.

  • Fellow of the American Academy of Chefs, 44 years.

  • Member of the American Culinary Federation and Epicurean Club of Boston for 52 years.

  • Member of the Les Amis d’ Escoffier Society Boston, 34 years.

  • Served for 10 years as a Board Member and an Officer of the ACF Massachusetts Chefs de Cuisine.

  • Served over 40 years as a Board Member and an Officer of the ACF Epicurean Club of Boston.

  • The Lawrence A. Conti, CEC®, AAC®, HOF, Chair’s Achievement Award 2010.

  • Northeast Regional Hermann G. Rusch Chef’s Achievement Award, 2006.

  • ACF Epicurean Club of Boston Award of Merit, 2005.

  • American Culinary Federation President’s Medallion, 2001.

  • ACF Epicurean Club of Boston President’s Medallion, 1991.

  • Chef of the Year twice, 1981 and 1989.

  • A Vietnam Veteran.


Tonys Wake

Wake is Friday 4 to 8 pm

(781) 233-0300


In lieu of flowers please send a donation to the Anthony Graffeo Culinary

Scholarship Fund a 501c(3) non-profit.




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