On Saturday, People announced that beloved Food Network chef Carl Ruiz had passed away at age 44.
Back in June, Ruiz opened his new restaurant La Cubana in New York City, which specializes in authentic Cuban cuisine.
The restaurant released a statement Sunday night, remembering Ruiz as a “mighty force”.
“On behalf of the La Cubana family, with heavy hearts, we are deeply saddened to share the passing of our beloved Executive Chef Carl Ruiz.
“No words can fully express our sadness at the sudden loss of our dear friend and brother.”
“Beyond his immense culinary talent, Carl’s larger-than-life personality never failed to entertain, enlighten, and uplift every person he encountered along his #Ruizing adventures.”
The statement continues.
“His fierce intellect and infectious humor knew no bounds. He was a mighty force of down home Cuban cuisine, and lived life to the fullest, just as he cooked—with ‘dancing always’ as the most important ingredient.”
“Here at La Cubana, Carl paid proud tribute to his Cuban roots each night, and it is here that Carl’s legacy, undeniable spirit and passion for his culture will live on. We hope we make you proud, Carlito.”
Many celebrity chefs have extended their condolences on social media, including Ruiz’s friend, Guy Fieri.
“I’m heartbroken that my friend chef Carl Ruiz is gone,” Fieri wrote .
“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.”
“Over the years, I’ve met a lot of great people but a friend like Carl is one in a hundred million. Carl ’The Cuban’ Ruiz will forever live on in my heart and in those of all who loved him.”
Southern cook Paula Deen decided to go a different route.
While appearing on Montana morning radio show “The Big J Show” on Monday, Deen was asked about Ruiz.
“No, I’m not [familiar with Ruiz],” she replied. “But I’m so sorry to hear that.”
Deen then felt it was appropriate to make a joke about Ruiz’s passing, saying: “You know, they say the restaurant business will kill ya. No pun intended,” she laughed.
Naturally, this joke did no go over well and fans immediately took to Twitter to fire back at Deen’s remarks.
Fans felt the comment was incredibly insensitive and tasteless.
“Does your cookbook include a recipe that cures Diarrhea Of The Mouth?” asked one Twitter user.
“When will you learn to shut your mouth? Or else show some decency. Chef Carl Ruiz was truly loved by many and your tasteless (pun intended) comment shows a lack of class and heart,” wrote aother.
Clearly, it didn’t go over well.
This is not the first time Deen has been under fire.
Deen’s entire Food Network empire crumbled after a stream of racist allegations back in 2013.
