The Chicago Tribune reports iconic chef Charlie Trotter, 54, was found dead in his home this morning. Known as a talented and detailed, tough leader who was both generous (he was named the James Beard Foundation's humanitarian of the year in 2012) and volatile, he closed his Charlie Trotter's restaurant last year after 25 years in business, saying he would pursue a master's in philosophy at the University of Chicago. (As a chef, he was self-taught.)
Accolades are arriving from Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel to chef friends, and Twitter posts include links to stories of Trotter adventures and well-loved quotes. An autopsy is set for Wednesday, the Tribune reported.
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2 comments:
My wife and I (and several of our children) visited his restaurant in Chicago numerous times in the 1990's and early 2000's and were always blown away. The entire experience -- food, service, atmosphere -- was amazing...every time. And, whenever one of our children was on a first visit, we were treated to a tour of the inner-workings of the kitchen--always right in the middle of a busy night, and Charlie and his staff were always incredibly gracious. We were sad to see his restaurant close last year and are particularly saddened to hear of his death. He was a true genius and master.
I too quite enjoyed Mr. Trotter's restaurant in Chicago and was sad to hear of his passing. As for your tours of the kitchen on busy nights, you DO realize that offering you such a tour is a polite way of getting you to leave your table, right? ...not to say that it's not a win-win since some kitchens are definitely sights to behold!
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