Cuban Cuisine Legend and NYC Chef, Carl Ruiz, Has Died

Legendary celebrity chef Carl Ruiz of New York’s La Cubana restaurant has passed away at the age of 44. At this time the cause of death is unknown. Ruiz was considered a larger than life figure who had a deep passion for connection through food, and was widely known for his regular appearances on the Food Network. He was beloved by the culinary community and he was seen as a trailblazer, always looking to expand the conversation about food.
According to the La Cubana website:
“Paying tribute to his Cuban roots, Carl Ruiz’s latest restaurant venture, La Cubana, which opened June 2019 in NYC’s Meatpacking district, is a vibrant new dining destination where authentic Cuban cuisine, vintage cocktails, and live Latin music set the stage for a colorful, old-world Havana-inspired experience. In addition to serving dinner, La Cubana will also host a signature Cuban brunch each weekend.”
La Cubana, NY
Many of Carl’s peers have come forward in the wake of his tragic passing to offer their thoughts. Most notably, Guy Fieri:
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. pic.twitter.com/einY8qp7wf
— Guy Fieri (@GuyFieri) September 22, 2019
In an interview for the NY Times, Carl’s brother George notes that the passion for cooking stemmed from their Cuban mother and grandmother, who were “culinary artists in their own way, even if they didn’t have a degree.” This passing down of tradition is a point of pride for many of us within the greater Latinx community.
It is what keeps our cultures alive. We are grateful to those who work hard to preserve these stories like modern day historians. Ruiz carried the torch for over 25 years, celebrating his Cuban roots and inspiring everyone, including Latinos to be proud of who they were.
Even though he is no longer with us, we hope that his spirit is still “dancing always.”
Rest in power, chef.