Lidia C Goldner

Lidia was born in 1943 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She attended international schools in Rio. She was fluent in five languages.

In 1966 Lidia joined Pan American Airlines based in New York. For the next 16 years, she flew worldwide with Pan Am as a Purser.

In 1979 she and the Pan Am flight crew were held hostage for weeks in Tehran at the InterContinental Hotel by the militia during the Iran Hostage Crisis. Finally, after many terrifying and tense episodes, Pan Am was able to negotiate their release.

Lidia studied Interior Design at Parsons School of Design in New York City. She especially used her design talents when together with her husband, Norbert Goldner, they created Cafe L'Europe in 1980 on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach. The restaurant opened to sensational reviews for superb food, ambiance, wine selections, and service. In 1995 they moved to a larger location at Brazilian Avenue and South County Road.

For 40 years Lidia brought style and creativity to all aspects of the Cafe L'Europe. Additionally, she had a special focus on the wine program. Lidia became a renowned wine expert and was honored with a multitude of international wine awards. In particular, she was very proud of the award, Circle Des Amis De La Veuve, from the Champagne House, Veuve Clicquot.

Additionally, Lidia received numerous local, national, and international awards for women's leadership and a vast array of hospitality awards, including the prestigious Nation's Restaurant News "Fine Dining Hall of Fame Award", and the ultimate recognition in restaurant awards, "The Ivy Award".

Her husband Norbert predeceased her in 2018. She is survived by close friends.

In honor of her request, no services will be held.