‘Food Buddha’ Rodelio Aglibot passes away in Ohio

Chef Rodelio Aglibot, 52, died March 28 in Cincinnati, Ohio. FIREFIN POKESHOP

CHICAGO – Internationally renowned Filipino American chef and restaurateur Rodelio Aglibot, 52, the television “Food Buddha,” died of cardiac arrest Saturday, March 28 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Family and friends posted that his death doesn’t appear to be COVID-19 related.

Aglibot is known for River North Pan-Asian hotspot Sunda, FireFin Poke Shop and other Chicago restaurants. He recently opened E + O New Asian to Cincinnati.

According to Chicago Eater, he influenced many Chicago’s chefs including Ray Espirtu (Isla Pilipina), Lawrence Letrero (Bayan Ko), and James De Marte (Pisolino).

Aglibot earned the moniker Food Buddha for his appearance and how he answered the questions. It became his brand and the name of his TV show.

The son of a US Navy cook, he was born in the Philippines and spent his early years in Hawai’i. He went to high school and college in Los Angeles before pursuing cooking as a profession.

“My brother was such a gift. God used him to show His love through him — through his food, random texts/calls that would uplift people, his presence and ability to make you feel like you were his best friend (and you truly were),” his sister Ruby Byers told Eater Chicago. “God used him to connect people to other people and opportunities that have impacted lives across the globe. Rodelio Aglibot was really a blessing to so many.”