James Kent, the renowned chef behind some of New York's top restaurants, has passed away, his restaurants and hospitality group announced on Saturday.
"We are heartbroken to share that James Kent passed away unexpectedly earlier today," wrote Saga Hospitality Group in an Instagram post announcing the 45-year-old chef's death. Kent helmed some of the most luxurious restaurants in New York City including Crown Shy, Overstory, and Saga.
The Saga Hospitality Group family is focused on supporting each other and most importantly Kelly, Gavin, and Avery as we grieve James' loss," the post said, mentioning Kent's wife and children. The post ended with a message for followers to spend Father's Day with their loved ones.
The cause of Kent's death was not disclosed by the hospitality group or his family as of time of publication.
Harrison Ginsberg, the bar director and head of beverages for Kent's group of restaurants, also expressed his sorrow.
Kent was a New York City-born chef whose restaurants dominated the food scene and collected accolades including two Michelin stars for his noteworthy restaurant Saga, one Michelin star for Crown Shy, a downtown Manhattan eatery, and a spot on the ranking of the world's best bars for Overstory, a 64th floor bar on Wall Street. In 2010, Kent won the Bocuse d'Or USA.
Award-winning chef Gavin Kaysen paid tribute to Kent in an Instagram post recounting memories he shared with the chef.
