A fan-favorite Top Chef alum's restaurateur husband has died just days after sharing pictures on social media of him cooking.
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Ben Byruch, who co-founded the Pig and Khao restaurant with his wife, a former Top Chef contestant, Leah Cohen, passed away at 44, Pig and Khao confirmed in an Instagram post via PEOPLE on Nov. 12.
"We are heartbroken to share the passing of Ben Byruch — husband to our chef and owner, Leah Cohen, devoted father, son, brother, and friend to so many," the restaurant wrote. "Ben was the co-founder of Pig & Khao and its creative heart. His vision shaped who we are, and his warmth, passion, and sense of humor touched everyone lucky enough to know him."
"We ask for privacy for Leah and the family during this time. We will miss him more than words can say."
The cause of death for the 44-year-old wasn't revealed.
Of course, the comments section to Pig and Khao's post was filled with words of support from fans and friends.
"@leahscohen can't imagine what you're going through but here if you need anything," chef and TV personality Jordan Andino wrote. "Help with the business, childcare, a shoulder to lean on, a drink to celebrate life. He was incredible, and I am honored I got the opportunity to work with you both," he added.
"Leah, sending you my love and condolences. I'm here for anything you need. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Love you," Chef Ayesha Nurdjaja wrote.
"No words. I'm so, so sorry. Sending you all of our love,' a third onlooker added.
Ben Byruch's Passing Comes Just Days After Photos of Him and His Wife Cooking Together Were Posted on Social Media
The sad news follows the Food Network's Chefs Making Waves Instagram account posting a snapshot of Byruch just days ago. In the shot, he's collaborating with his wife, Cohen, who placed sixth on the fifth season of Top Chef, on cooking a Filipino dish while at the food, wine, and spirits festival.
"Tangled up in tradition! Leah Cohen is sharing the magic of Pancit Bihon, a beloved Filipino staple packed with flavor, rich cultural roots, and the joy of bringing people together — even at sea!" the Instagram account wrote alongside the photos, which also included snapshots of the completed dish and an audience looking on as the wife and husband cooked.
Despite the recent post, PEOPLE points out that the most recent Chefs Making Waves festival was held back in September.
Cohen and Byruch married in 2016, welcoming two sons in 2019 and 2022. Along with co-owning the Filipino-Thai restaurant Pig & Khao, the husband-and-wife team runs the Piggyback Bar in NYC.
