A top Scottish chef who was regarded as a trendsetter In the culinary industry has tragically died at the age of 48.
Gary Goldie was a house name in the hospitality industry and as an expert forager, he was widely credited for bringing the wild food scene to Scotland and made many TV appearances.
The talented cook picked up many accolades along the way, making a name for himself in the kitchen of luxury hotels after working under top chefs in Europe.
While working at the Ardanaiseig Hotel he earned its restaurant 3 AA rosettes and went on to win Scottish Hotel Chef of the Year.
He went on to set up his own restaurant focusing on his foraging passion and back to his roots in Oban and in recent times has been part of the Taste of Argyll kitchen - a field to folk café with 5 star ratings, as well as the Isle of Eriska Hotel and Spa.
Gary's family said in a statement: "Gary has died very suddenly at the age of 48, survived by his loving family, children Jodi, Gaz, Isabelle, and granddaughters Mya and Cecilia.
"Gary was incredibly talented. His love and passion for foraging, married well with his amazing, natural talent for cooking. His achievements were many and his reputation and knowledge crossed the culinary world.
"At this sad time, kind comments from chefs all over Scotland clearly show how respected he was. Some claim that Gary was instrumental in sparking the wild food scene in Scotland.
"Above all he was a family man and there are few words to describe the grief that his colleagues, friends and family are feeling.
"We have certainly lost a true talent and a genuine, loving person."
Many have paid tributes to Gary following his sudden death from across the world. Ardanaiseig Hotel said: "It’s with great sadness we heard of the passing of our former Head Chef Gary Goldie.
"Gary and his family were for many years a staple in the daily life of Ardanaiseig. Attaining 3 rosettes and Head Chef of the Year at the Scottish Hotel of the Year Awards among some of his commendations.
"Gary was very passionate about cooking; that’s clear to anyone who met him and his love of foraging kept the menus interesting and vibrant. The loss of his talent and knowledge will be felt across hospitality.
"Gary’s biggest passion was, of course, his family who we all hold dear in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
"Rest in Peace Chef."
Italian chef Paolo Balbinot who wrote: "I feel so sorry for Gary, his family and friends. He introduced me to foraging and thanks to him I became the chef I am today. Years ago we took different paths but I always remembered with nostalgia the moments we spent together in the kitchen and in the woods. He was for sure one of a kind and a real talented chef. Rest in peace Gary! x"
Gary McLean-Quin, chair of Hotels of the Year, said: "Heartbreaking to hear the news if the passing, a day before his birthday, of brilliant and still-young chef, expert forager, and highly original music maker, Gary Goldie. A charming, modest, witty, and hugely creative man. Condolences and sympathy to his family and many friends."
Gary was also part of the Scottish music scene, playing in the Hip Hop group, The Jakeybytez. They said: "It's took us all a few days to process the sad news that our friend and brother Gary Goldie has passed away. We shared some amazing times in the studio, chilling together and doing gigs across the land!
"He had such a passionate personality that was infectious to anyone he spent time with and many a time we watched in awe as he just freestyle a verse in one take or whipped us up delicious food with ingredients none of us knew existed!
"He opened his door to us many a time and since we all first met all those years ago has considered us as brothers just like we did him."
GoFundMe has been set up to help Gary’s family with costs, https://gofund.me/708379e4. His family said they were grateful for all support by messages and donations received so far.
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