Restaurateur Bill Granger has passed away aged 54

The Staff Canteen

Editor

Chef and restaurateur Bill Granger, who passed away at the age of 54, is being fondly remembered by the culinary world.

Bill, originally from Australia, operated five Granger & Co restaurants in London, with his first one in Notting Hill opening its doors in 2011, offering a menu spanning brunch and relaxed all-day dining.

A statement from his family read: "It is with great sadness that the family of Bill Granger announce his passing on 25 December at the age of 54. A dedicated husband and father, Bill peacefully left us in a London hospital, surrounded by his wife Natalie Elliott and three daughters, Edie, Inès, and Bunny."

Bill Granger's journey in the culinary world began when he left art school in 1993 to open his inaugural restaurant, "Bills," located in Sydney's Darlinghurst. The eatery quickly gained fame for its breakfast offerings, particularly served around a communal table.

In 2002, The New York Times bestowed the title of 'the egg master of Sydney' upon Granger, lauding his scrambled eggs as "as light as the breath of an angel."

His culinary empire expanded internationally in 2008, ultimately encompassing 19 restaurants in various countries, including Tokyo, London, and Seoul.

Aside from his restaurant ventures, Bill Granger was a prolific author, penning 12 cookbooks that collectively sold over a million copies.

He also starred in five television series that reached audiences in more than 30 countries.

Tributes have poured in from fellow industry professionals, with chef and TV personality Nigella Lawson describing him as "the loveliest man", emphasising the joy he brought through his food, books, and welcoming spaces.

Jamie Oliver reflected on Granger's warm and charming personality, noting his pioneering style in cooking. Granger's legacy in the culinary world remains a source of inspiration and admiration for many.

"This is devastating news, i'm so sad to hear this, what a guy he was... a wonderful human, kind calm soul. I admired everything he represented in food I remember the first time I met him many moons ago he couldn’t have been nicer and his food so good," Jamie explained.

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