Michelin-starred chef James Kent is dead at 45. Kent’s wife revealed in a statement on Monday that he suffered a fatal heart attack over the weekend.
Additionally, over the weekend, Saga Hospitality Group, which is the holding company of Kent’s two restaurants, Crown Shy and Saga, and his cocktail bar, Overstory, shared a photo of Kent on Instagram.
“We are heartbroken to share that James Kent passed away unexpectedly earlier today,” the company wrote in the caption of the photo.
“The Saga Hospitality Group family is focused on supporting each other and most importantly Kelly, Gavin and Avery as we grieve James’ loss. Crown Shy, Saga and Overstory will be closed tomorrow: Sunday, June 16th. Celebrate Father’s Day with your loved ones.”
Michelin-Starred Chef James Kent Dead by Heart Attack
The death of Kent has heavily impacted countless individuals who have crossed paths with the chef. Many people shared their condolences in the comments section of Saga Hospitality Group’s Instagram post.
“I’ve lived in the same building for 7 years and chef James Kent was a big part of the community 💔” one person wrote. “I was a regular at his restaurants and would always see him in the elevator—always a kind smile and hello.”
“When the pandemic hit, he served our building incredible 3-course $10 meals every day for over a month — his meals were what I would look forward to every day during a scary time for everyone ❤️ he had a kind and generous soul. this is sad.”
Another shared a comment with their story/experiences with Kent.
“They say when someone passes you see how many people they’ve affected, and there is no question you have made an unforgettable impact in thousands of people’s lives. I was just an extern in 2010 and you were the only person who was kind during a time when people were not very kind,” another person wrote.
“It was my first day and I’ve never been in a kitchen like emp before and you gave me your skull cap bc they were out of them. I don’t know how we will be grieving your loss, and I know everyone cannot even fathom what your family is going through right now,” the person continued.
“When you read all the comments of how much you mean to everyone I think it hurts even more. There are no words.. I’m sure you are hanging out with LB now and catching up on everything.”