“Our hearts are broken”: Top chef dead at just 38
The founder of a popular Japanese burger chain Ume Burger has died suddenly aged 38.
Kerby Craig worked at Michelin star restaurants in the United Kingdom and Canada before coming back to Australia and started a new burger joint known as Ume Burger.
The company announced the devastating news on their Instagram page, revealing that Kerby passed away on June 9.
“With deep sorrow, we announce the unexpected passing of our founder, our dearest son and brother, mentor and friend, Kerby Craig,” they wrote.
“Words can barely express our grief. Today, as we celebrate his life well-lived we also acknowledge the 10 year anniversary of the Ume brand established by Kerby in 2012 with a much loved fine dining Japanese restaurant in Surry Hills.”
The business spoke about Kerby’s hard working ethic and passions from the age of 15, which eventually led to him creating the Ume Burger chain.
“Kerby strived to live out his passions and worked tirelessly to make Ume what it is today, bringing joy and fun to people through good food. He was driven and free-spirited, pursuing his goals with a determination very few people possess,” the post continued.
“From a young age, Kerby’s independent nature revealed he would pave his own way through life, forging beautiful friendships and experiences along the way. At the age of 15 he left school and began working as an apprentice chef at Tetsuya Wakuda’s Rozelle restaurant, sparking a formidable career and life-long love of food and hospitality.
“He worked his way through the best restaurants in London, Canada and Sydney to achieve what he set out to in his short life. There’s no easy passage to great success in hospitality, as many will know.
“The long hours and hard work in Michelin star restaurants in the UK and hatted restaurants in Sydney took Kerby to his first great achievement of earning 6 consecutive hats at Koi, Woolwich. Following his departure from Koi he opened Ume and won his very own hat as both chef and owner.
“Kerby’s devotion to cooking and business peaked through the creation of his pride and joy, Ume Burger. Through establishing Sydney’s premier fast-casual Japanese burger restaurant, Kerby created a living legacy that tens of thousands of foodies have experienced and loved, and will continue to across two landmark venues with a future vision we hope to deliver on.”
Kery was described as outspoken, passionate, carig, loyal and charismatic larrikin with a “larger than life personality”.
“For anyone who spent any time with Keby, you walked away feeling happy and full. He loved Sydney hospitality, Japan, his sweet dog Bobby, his popcorn, snacks and adored his family and friends.
“Kerby always found time for you, he had the biggest heart and an even greater laugh.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks for your condolences. We express our gratitude to all who have supported Kerby in his journey and supported his businesses. We respectfully request privacy at this difficult time. A proper tribute wll be made in the coming week.
“The Ume restaurants will be open for business as usual, just as Kerby would have wanted. We are bereft. He was our everything. Our hearts are broken. Rest in Peace.”
Images: Instagram