Food - Drink
Gael Greene's Death Has The Food World Shaken
By BRIANNA CORLEY
After decades of publishing insightful writing about food and leading non-profit charity projects, legendary restaurant critic Gael Greene has died of cancer. Her death has sent shockwaves through the culinary world, and colleagues are reflecting on Greene's tremendous impact on the food industry.
Greene, who began working for New York Magazine in its infancy, wrote food columns filled with dynamic phrasing and clever quips that made her an icon. Her writing spurred the likes of Ben & Jerry's to better their culinary craft, and she also co-founded the non-profit organization Citymeals on Wheels alongside legendary chef James Beard.
Citymeals on Wheels works to bring food and support to New York's elderly residents, and the organization's executive director, Beth Shapiro, said that Greene "built tremendous influence as a food critic, at a time when fewer doors were open to women." Food writer Jay Rayner, who worked with Greene on "Top Chef Masters," also spoke his piece.
In a touching tweet, Rayner called Greene "sharp, brilliantly acerbic [...] hugely informed, witty and underneath the hat and all, a total delight." Literary figures also paid tribute to Greene; Jason Diamond, author of "The Sprawl," tweeted that Greene was "one of a kind. So smart, bawdy, funny, and fun to read. Absolute icon."