Donation protected
For more than 40 years, Chef Frank DeCarlo has poured his heart into New York City and Long Island’s culinary community. Together with his beloved wife Dulcinea (“Dulcy”) Benson, Frank created and ran the legendary restaurant Peasant in Nolita, where his pioneering wood-fired, rustic Italian cooking captured the spirit of a city and inspired a generation of chefs.
Frank is now facing his most difficult challenge: he is suffering from liver failure and requires a liver transplant. Dulcy, his partner in life and in craft, is carrying this burden on her own; emotionally, physically, and financially. Now, they need us.
Before Peasant: The Making of a Chef and a Friend
Before the world knew him as the chef behind Peasant, Frank DeCarlo was already living the values that would define his legacy. Born in New Jersey, and every bit a true New Yorker with deep Italian roots, he learned early that food was love, community, and connection.
Whether cooking for family, riding a motorcycle with friends, or welcoming anyone who needed a place at his table, Frank built a life around generosity and joy. Peasant wasn’t the beginning of his story it was the continuation of a lifetime of giving, carried forward with Dulcy at his side.
Frank’s Legacy
- Peasant (1999 – 2019): Built almost entirely by Frank’s own hands, Peasant became one of NYC’s most iconic restaurants. Its soulful, wood-fired cooking attracted fellow chefs, celebrities, and devoted locals. Recurring diners included: Daniel Boulod, Eric Ripert, Anthony Bourdain, Alain Ducasse, Martha Stewart, Jeffrey Chodorow, Marc Forgione, Danny Meyer, Tyler Florence, Jean Georges, and legendary chef, Jean-Louis Palladin, after one meal at Peasant, asked to study in Frank’s kitchen, then shot his last cookbook at Peasant - the book was unfinished due to Chef Palladin's passing.
- Mentorship & Community: Countless chefs, restaurateurs, and food lovers were shaped by Frank’s generosity, humility, and relentless passion for craft. Peasant was a place families ate and where families were created.
- Resilience: After 9/11, when the city was shaken to its core, Frank and Dulcy opened Peasant’s doors to offer food, comfort, and connection.
- Beyond NYC: Together they extended their vision to Long Island with ventures like Barba Bianca, drawing from their love of fishing, local farms, and the sea.
Frank’s influence stretches far beyond his restaurants. He built bonds through food and life, quietly giving support to those in need and nurturing friendships that lasted decades. Many celebrity chefs and lifelong friends have shared countless hours at Peasant’s tables, warmed by the fire he so carefully tended.
Why We’re Raising Funds
After a lifetime of giving, with humility and without seeking recognition, it is our turn to give back. Frank and Dulcy are now facing potentially overwhelming medical expenses, transplant related costs, and essential living needs.
Your support will:
- Help cover urgent medical bills and transplant costs
- Provide relief for Dulcy as she supports Frank through this journey
- Honor and sustain the legacy of a chef who gave so much to his community
How You Can Help
If you’ve ever been moved by a meal, inspired by a chef, or comforted by the community, this is your chance to give back.
- Donate whatever you can.
- Share this campaign widely.
- Send your love and prayers to Frank and Dulcy.
Frank once built Peasant’s hearthstone, feeding our city with tradition, love, and humility. Now, it is our turn to help rekindle his spark and carry him through this battle.
Let’s stand by Frank and Dulcy. Let’s give back to a couple who gave us all so much.
Please donate and share today.
Co-organizers (3)
Damen Seminero
Organizer
New York, NY
Dulcinea Benson
Beneficiary
Stacy Pisone
Co-organizer