Australian chef Bill Granger, widely hailed as the “godfather” of avocado toast, has passed away at the age of 54.
Granger, a self-taught cook from Melbourne, left an indelible mark as a celebrated global restaurateur and food writer over his remarkable 30-year career.
Surrounded by his wife and three daughters, Granger breathed his last in a London hospital on Christmas Day. Fondly remembered as the “King of Breakfast,” he transformed unpretentious food into a sunshine-filled delight that resonated globally. His family shared the news on Instagram, stating, “He will be deeply missed by all.”
Granger’s legacy extends beyond his 14 cookbooks and multiple television cooking shows. The visionary chef opened over a dozen restaurants worldwide, earning admiration not only from his devoted fanbase but also from celebrity peers. Tributes from figures like Hugh Jackman, Matt Preston, and Jamie Oliver poured in, highlighting Granger’s kindness, liveliness, and charm.
Nigella Lawson, a fellow food author and TV chef, expressed devastation for Granger’s family, emphasising his impact on the culinary world. Granger’s influential career began in 1993 when he opened his first restaurant, Bills, in Sydney at the age of 23. Bills gained fame for its simple yet exquisite dishes, including the iconic avocado toast and ricotta pancakes.
His influence extended globally with cafes in Japan, Korea, and London, forming the Granger & Co. chain. Granger’s accolades included the Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of his significant contributions to tourism and hospitality.
Reflecting on his journey in a 2019 interview, Granger marvelled at the extraordinary success stemming from his passion for cooking breakfast classics. Credited with popularising avocado toast, Granger shared his method, emphasising ripe avocados, citrus, sea salt, and coriander for freshness.
Bill Granger leaves behind a lasting legacy in the culinary landscape, survived by his wife and business partner, Natalie Elliott, and their three daughters.