Ritz-Carlton Portland Chef Lauro Romero dies
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Lauro Romero, described by many as a Portland food scene trailblazer, died Friday. He was 42.
He most recently joined the Ritz-Carlton Portland as the chef at Bellpine, the 20th floor restaurant at Portland’s newest skyscraper. In a statement on their Instagram account, Ritz-Carlton Portland said:
“He was the light of Bellpine and a true trailblazer in establishing Portland’s culinary scene. He meant so much to so many both in and out of the kitchen. As a leader, Lauro always involved his team in celebration, highlighting achievements and showcasing talents. He was an incredible mentor, teaching with compassion and kindness. And most importantly, he was a fun and wise friend to all. His smile was contagious and his generosity was boundless. Always a hug and an ear to lend. Our thoughts remain with his two daughters and family.”
Romero opened the pop-up Clandestino, formerly operating out of the Dame Collective, in December 2022. It was there he was noticed by the New York Times Food Columnist Melissa Clark for the Whole Grilled Dorado, which they named as one of their “23 of the Best American Dishes of 2023.”
In their Instagram post, Clandestino said he died “peacefully in his sleep” Friday morning:
“Many of us were lucky to call Lauro a leader, mentor, friend, and collaborator over his lauded career. He was a true inspiration and a pioneer going on to not only make his mark on the Portland food scene, but also went as far as transforming what it looks like. Lauro led with quiet confidence, always sure of who he was, showing boundless creativity and an incomparable talent. This is what made him a mentor to so many in this industry, and his humor, goofiness, and humility is what drew so many to him.”
He had also previously been the executive chef at República and head chef at King Tide Fish & Shell before that. Romero joined executive chef Pedreo Almeida at Bellpine in May 2023.
The cause of his death was not immediately released. A GoFundMe has been set up for his wife and family to cope with the immediate and upcoming expenses.
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