Beloved Australian celebrity chef and celebrated MasterChef star Greg Malouf has sadly passed away at the age of 64. The heartbreaking news comes several years after Greg’s successful donor heart transplant. Celebrated as ‘Australia’s godfather of Middle Eastern cuisine,’ Greg’s profound love for traditional Arabic dishes made him a popular figure.
George Calombaris, the esteemed former MasterChef Australia judge, aged 45, took to Instagram on Saturday to share the devastating news of Greg’s demise. Accompanying an endearing photo of Greg clad in his chef whites, George shared: “Along with so many, today is a sad day for us all. We lost a giant of a human. A beautiful man. Yes, an amazing chef. I send love to his family”, reports the Mirror.
“I will miss the banter of all things Greek vs Lebanese food. RIP great man. See you on the other side. GC xxx”. A host of Greg’s contemporaries from the TV chef world have come forward to offer their condolences. “One of the giants,” composed fellow celebrity chef Miguel Maestre.
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Matt Moran, of The Great Australian Bake Off fame, expressed his sorrow with a crying face emoji.
Greg was born in Melbourne and was a Michelin Star chef – successful enough to be head chef at several successful restaurants. He also wrote several cookbooks and received much praise from critics throughout his incredible culinary career.
His final Instagram post was just two weeks ago, when he posted an image of artichoke and leek salad with Turkish chilli flakes, saying: “Fond memories of Turkey through Turquoise – a chefs journey through Turkey.”
Devastated fans added their tributes in the comments, with one saying: “Thank you for all the amazing knowledge you left us. Met you in Melbourne at your restaurant Momo, having a lovely celebration at my husband’s 25th anniversary (2004). Forever grateful for receiving us and taking care of our meal, plus your delicious dessert as a gift. May you rest in peace with God.”
Another wrote: “RIP Greg thank you for your art. You were a true pioneer of middle eastern cuisine. Inspirational,” while a third added: Such a good, kind man. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and wisdom. Momo nights were always fun…our wedding copper pot is on display…your in our memories forever.”
A fourth said: “We will miss you Greg, your contribution to the culinary arts will be remembered. Rest in Peace,” and a fifth simply stated: “Rest In Peace chef.”