Chef Carl Ruiz's Family Sets Up Foundation for Aspiring Chefs After His Death
By Gary Trock on September 22, 2019 at 1:51 PM EDT
The culinary world is collectively mourning the loss of Chef Carl Ruiz, who unexpectedly died at the age of 44, however his legacy will live forever with a new foundation established in his name.
Ruiz's NYC restaurant, La Cubana, made the announcement Sunday afternoon that a foundation would be set up following their beloved executive chef's untimely death.
"To honor the work you loved so much Chef, La Cubana will continue your work in establishing The Carl Ruiz Scholarship Foundation for aspiring chefs."
As we reported, Ruiz died on Saturday of a suspected heart attack while in Maryland.
His final Instagram post was dedicated to some delicious crab cakes he had eaten from a local favorite, BackFin Blues.
"Delicious Crab Cakes with collard greens and red beans and rice. Heaven," he captioned the decadent looking food.
Fans and friends of the star keyed in on his use of "heaven," and were overcome with emotion over the situation.
Culinary personality Eddie Zamora commented on the photo, "Please let it not be true," while other fans expressed the same sentiment.
As we reported, Guy Fieri released a heartbreaking statement about the loss of his friend, who had been featured on multiple episodes of "Diners, Dive-Ins and Drives," and "Guy's Grocery Games."
"I’m heartbroken that my friend chef Carl Ruiz is gone. I have no words to describe what a great friend he was to me and my family. His ability to make me laugh and smile under any circumstances was only outshined by his talent as a chef. Over the years, I’ve met a lot of great people but a friend like Carl is one in a hundred million. Carl ’The Cuban’ Ruiz will forever live on in my heart and in those of all who loved him."
Ruiz's restaurant is also ready to carry on his memory through his delicious dishes, and told fans:
"Here at La Cubana, Carl paid proud tribute to his Cuban roots each night, and it is here that Carl's legacy, undeniable spirit and passion for his culture will live on. We hope we make you proud, Carlito."
