Produce Pete, Beloved New York City Grocer and Chef, Passes Away at 80
The culinary world mourns the loss of a true icon as Peter Napolitano, widely known as Produce Pete, has died at the age of 80. The beloved grocer and chef was a fixture on New York City television for over three decades, sharing his expertise on fresh fruits and vegetables with countless viewers.
A Life Dedicated to Fresh Produce
Born in Bergenfield, New Jersey, in February 1945, Peter Napolitano became a household name through his weekly segment on NBC affiliate channels. For more than 33 years, he appeared on Weekend Today in New York, offering practical advice on selecting the freshest produce and sharing cooking tips that resonated with home cooks across the region.
His warm personality and genuine passion for his work earned him the affectionate nickname Produce Pete, a moniker that even members of his own family adopted. Steven Bognar, the managing editor of NBC 4 New York, confirmed Napolitano's passing in a social media post, expressing that his warmth, kindness and love for his work will be missed by all of us.
Cause of Death and Health Struggles
While the exact cause of Peter Napolitano's death has not been officially disclosed, it is known that the television personality had been battling a serious heart condition. In June 2025, his Facebook page revealed that Produce Pete was suffering from heart issues and had undergone a triple bypass surgery at the Cleveland Clinic.
The social media update at the time expressed optimism about his recovery, stating: After many doctors visits he was sent to Cleveland clinic and had successful triple bypass surgery, we think he will have a quick recovery and are so pleased everything went so well. However, it remains unclear whether his passing is directly linked to these pre-existing health concerns.
Legacy of a New York Food Icon
Produce Pete's impact extended far beyond the television screen. Amy Morris, the Senior Vice President of News for NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47, highlighted his community involvement, noting that viewers frequently connected with him at health expos, food drives, and farmers markets throughout New Jersey.
His obituary on NBC paints the picture of a man who was truly beloved by his audience and colleagues alike. Tributes have been pouring in from across the food industry and beyond, celebrating his decades of service as a trusted source of culinary wisdom.
Napolitano's legacy includes:
- Over 33 years of weekly television segments on NBC affiliates
- Countless cooking demonstrations and produce selection tips
- Regular appearances at community events and farmers markets
- A reputation as one of New York's most recognizable food personalities
As news of his passing spreads, fans and colleagues remember Produce Pete not just as a television personality, but as a genuine educator who made the world of fresh produce accessible to everyone. His contributions to New York's culinary landscape will continue to inspire home cooks and food enthusiasts for generations to come.
