Let’s face it—there’s something undeniably charming about celebrity chef friendships. Fans have long speculated about the romantic relationship between Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiis. Sure, they’re both culinary superstars, but are they more than just friends? Spoiler alert: they’re not dating, but here’s why the rumors won’t go away.
Over the years, the dynamic duo has consistently fueled fan theories with their close-knit bond. They’ve worked together on countless projects, including the hit show Food Network Star, where their chemistry shines through. But let’s rewind to the early days when their partnership first sparked some drama. Back in 2006, they teamed up for Iron Chef America, and, well, things didn’t exactly go as planned.
In a recent episode of her podcast, Beyond the Plate, Giada opened up about that infamous competition. “We lost, and he thought it was hilarious,” she confessed. “He didn’t seem to care much about the loss, but I was devastated. I didn’t speak to him for eight months—yes, eight months!”
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Giada admitted her frustration stemmed from Bobby’s casual attitude toward their defeat. “I took that competition seriously,” she explained. “It wasn’t just any show—it was huge at the time. I poured my heart into preparing for it, and I felt like Bobby didn’t give it his all. It was just another TV gig for him, while I treated it like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Bobby’s lack of remorse only added fuel to the fire. “He never apologized or even acknowledged that we lost,” Giada continued. “I was so upset, I decided I didn’t want anything to do with him anymore. But as you can imagine, time heals all wounds. Now, we’re great friends again, and we hang out regularly.”
Even though they’ve patched things up, the rumors refuse to die down. After Giada’s divorce from Todd Thompson in 2015 and Bobby’s split from his third wife, Stephanie March, people started connecting the dots. Around the same time, an insider claimed they were spotted on a romantic date in NYC. “They were holding hands under the table and looked incredibly cozy,” the source told Radar Online. “They carved their initials in a secret spot on the wall and had a fantastic time together.”
Insiders also noted how inseparable they seemed. “They spend so much time together, even when work keeps them apart,” another source revealed. “They’re constantly texting and calling each other.”
View this post on InstagramBetween takes on #nextfoodnetworkstar 😜 @bobbyflay @foodnetwork
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During an appearance on Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live, Giada addressed the dating rumors head-on. “Bobby and I have worked together for years, and we’re great friends,” she joked. “But I’m too smart to date him. Let’s just leave it at that.”
Stephanie and Bobby (left) and Giada and Tom (right). (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Today, both chefs have moved on from their past relationships. Bobby is currently dating actress Heléne Yorke, while Giada has found love with TV producer Shane Farley. Although they’re not romantically involved, their friendship remains strong. Who knows? Maybe one day they’ll surprise us all and give love another shot. Until then, we’ll keep cheering them on from the sidelines!