it is with tremendous sadness that I have to write that a wonderful young chef, and good friend, chef Phoenix, passed away early this morning. He was a young man with such depth in his heart, electric smile and laugh, and someone I deeply trusted, appreciated, respected, and enjoyed to be close. I worked with him for over a year at NADA, and was my first phone call when I landed at AJ's. Even though our last stop ended in a huge shit show, I valued him coming to work for me again.
The guy had such a wonderful attitude. He was almost never negative. He bought into the whole culture of respect and wanted to learn everything about becoming a chef.
Yesterday, we had lunch. We talked about AJ's, NADA, the interviews I was going on and trying to get him where ever I landed, food trucks, and how he loved his girlfriend. I am still in shock. I should have hugged him when I dropped him back off at his car.
In this year, I have lost my cousin January 28th, my aunt September 4th, and now Phoenix. My fucking heart and soul hurts.
Rest in peace my brother. I love you and will miss you
