The San Diego culinary community is grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Gianna Isabella Buzzetta, an acclaimed executive pastry chef at the Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie in Carlsbad. Buzzetta, 26, passed away on March 24, 2025, following a tragic hiking accident at Makaleha Falls Trail in Kapa‘a, Hawaii.
A Passion for Culinary Excellence
Buzzetta was a rising star in the culinary world, known for her remarkable talent and dedication. Her contributions to Jeune et Jolie’s prestigious Michelin star accreditation showcased her artistry and commitment to excellence. Colleagues and fellow chefs describe her as a creative force, whose desserts delighted guests and reflected her deep passion for her craft.
Beyond the kitchen, Gianna’s warmth and generosity extended to her volunteer work at animal rescue shelters, where she dedicated time and care to animals in need. Those who knew her say she carried a spirit of kindness that touched everyone around her.
Tragic Hiking Accident in Hawaii
Buzzetta had traveled to Hawaii with her partner and was hiking the Makaleha Falls Trail, a location she had long dreamed of visiting. During the excursion, a tragic accident occurred, prompting an immediate rescue effort by first responders.
The Kauai Fire Department’s Rescue 3 crew airlifted Buzzetta from the remote waterfall site to Wilcox Memorial Hospital in Kauai. Due to the severity of her injuries, she was later transported to The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu via emergency flight. Despite the extensive efforts of medical teams, she succumbed to her injuries, leaving her family and loved ones devastated.
A Community in Mourning
News of Buzzetta’s passing has sent shockwaves through San Diego’s culinary scene and beyond. Friends, colleagues, and diners who had the privilege of experiencing her work have expressed their grief and admiration for her talent.
Her family, devastated by the loss, has received an outpouring of love and support from the community. A GiveSendGo fundraising campaign, launched to assist with medical expenses, emergency travel, life flight costs, and funeral arrangements, has raised nearly $17,000 in support of the Buzzetta family.
“Her light will shine through the lives she touched,” her family shared in a statement, finding solace in the immense support they have received during this difficult time.
Honoring Gianna’s Legacy
Gianna Isabella Buzzetta leaves behind a lasting legacy—one of passion, creativity, and selflessness. Her work in the culinary world and her deep compassion for both people and animals will be remembered by those whose lives she impacted.
A memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days, giving family, friends, and the community a chance to celebrate her life and the joy she brought to so many.
As the San Diego culinary world mourns this immeasurable loss, Gianna’s legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched and the artistry she shared with the world.