The culinary world is mourning the loss of Chef Kenny Callaghan, a revered figure in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Kenny, a New York resident, was the owner of Eatright Hospitality and a highly respected restaurant consultant. His passion for food, mentorship, and hospitality left an indelible mark on the industry and all those who had the pleasure of working with him.
Kenny’s career spanned decades, beginning with his education at Johnson & Wales University, where he earned degrees in Culinary Arts and Foodservice Management. His journey led him to the prestigious Union Square Hospitality Group, where he spent over 20 years in various leadership roles, including Executive Chef and Partner at Blue Smoke and Director of Culinary Operations at Union Square Events. His expertise and dedication helped shape some of New York’s most beloved dining establishments.
Throughout his career, Kenny was known not just for his culinary mastery but for his warmth and generosity. Rob Duguay reflected on his impact, writing, “I learned a lot from Chef Kenneth Callaghan ‘Kenny.’ He was a gentle soul, a bon vivant, and a good listener. Any musician who played in Jazz Standard (or anyone who ate upstairs in Blue Smoke) have been beneficiaries of his masterful cuisine. I’ll miss our chats and his zest for life…rest in peace, Chef.”
Amy Mills shared her deep sorrow, recalling their long-standing friendship and shared love of barbecue: “So incredibly sad to wake up to the news about Kenneth Callaghan. We met in 1999 and quickly became family. We smoked barbecue together in Murphysboro, Manhattan, Aspen, Austin, Las Vegas, Denver, Memphis, Charleston, South Beach, and more, making so many memories. Kenny and Mike Mills had such a close, father/son type of relationship — they truly adored one another. I have no doubt he greeted Kenny in heaven with one of his huge hugs. Such a loss for our BBQ family.”
For over a decade, Kenny played a pivotal role in the Big Apple Barbecue Block Party and hosted the legendary “Kenny Callaghan Invitational” wrap-up parties, a testament to his vibrant spirit and deep connections within the culinary world.
His influence will continue to live on through the countless chefs and restaurateurs he mentored, the establishments he helped build, and the many lives he touched. The restaurant industry, and all who knew him, have lost a truly remarkable soul.
Rest in peace, Chef Kenny Callaghan. Your legacy of passion, kindness, and culinary excellence will never be forgotten.