Storer didn’t consult with Zucchero before he wrote the pilot but showed off the set before filming.

Source: https://chicago.eater.com/2023/3/6/23627370/joseph-zucchero-mr-beef-on-orleans-obituatry-the-bear-italian-beef-river-north

Zucchero died unexpectedly on March 1 at Rush Medical Center while undergoing treatment for cancer, said his son, Christopher Zucchero, who is a co-owner of the restaurant.

Source: https://www.columbian.com/news/2023/mar/07/founder-of-chicago-beef-shop-that-inspired-the-bear-dies/

Zucchero died unexpectedly on March 1 at Rush Medical Center while undergoing treatment for cancer, said his son, Christopher Zucchero, who is a co-owner of the restaurant.

Source: https://www.columbian.com/news/2023/mar/07/founder-of-chicago-beef-shop-that-inspired-the-bear-dies/