We are deeply saddened by the passing of acclaimed chef and restaurateur Gerry Hayden yesterday at the age of 50. “Chef Gerry Hayden had a profound influence on our culinary community both as a leader in the farm-to-table movement and as a man whose battle with ALS inspired everyone who saw him continue to do what he and his wife Claudia loved—to create a delicious and noteworthy restaurant,” said James Beard Foundation president Susan Ungaro. “We are proud to have had him as a friend and supporter of our mission.” Hayden cooked several times at the Beard House and at our annual Chefs & Champagne event, and was a four-time James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. Since 2006, Hayden has been running the lauded North Fork Table & Inn in Southold, New York, with his wife, Claudia Fleming. He will be sorely missed, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.
