A top Michelin star chef has died suddenly, as tributes from prominent figures of the British culinary scene have poured in.
Paul Kitching, who won Michelin accolades, passed away this week aged 61.
His partner Katie O’Brian said his death came as a “total shock” and that she and the staff at their 21212 restaurant were trying to come to terms with ‘industry legend’s’ passing.
O’Brien issued a statement on all 21212's social media platforms with a photo of the chef and the heartbreaking news.
She wrote: "My love has gone. But what a love x."
And in another message sent to customers, Katie said: “Dear friends, It is with heavy heart that I write to let you know that I've lost my love - Paul - who sadly passed away yesterday.
"The death has come as a total shock to us at 21212 and we are trying to come to terms with the passing of a legend within our industry. Paul was an inspirational figure to everyone who ever had the pleasure of meeting him or working with him and we are all devastated."
Paul was known as a trailblazer at his restaurant ventures - well-known for his acclaimed 21212 restaurant in Edinburgh.
The joint opened in 2009 and received a number of awards - including best new restaurant in the UK, a Michelin star between 2009 and 2019, four AA rosettes and was named Catering in Scotland's Restaurant of the Year.
Paul was also awarded the Prince Philip medal for services to the catering industry.
Before moving to Edinburgh, Paul and Katie ran Juniper in Altrincham, Greater Manchester.
The restaurant became the area's only Michelin-starred restaurant, and ranked in the top 20 restaurants in The Good Food Guide and was England's Restaurant of the Year.
Heartbroken friends, fans and diners have been sending Katie messages of condolence and paid tribute to the foodie genius of Paul on social media.
And tributes from the restaurant world have poured in for the talented chef.
Mark Poynton who worked with Paul at Juniper posted: "What a man, absolutely heart broken is an understatement, had an amazing time learning from Paul at Juniper."
Chef Dean Banks, of the Pompadour in Princes Street Waldorf Astoria, said: "A true inspiration to thousands of chefs who passed through his doors and to many more.
"Paul taught me there are no rules in cooking. Lemon tart with Chicken, STP with venison are a few that I mention a lot. Paul will live on through his cooking and teaching."
He added: "Paul was my last Head chef before I went out on my own and was truly part of creating me and my style.
"My condolences to all who loved him and to all who look up to him as one of the greats. He will be missed dearly."
The Michelin Guide wrote on Twitter : "Paul Kitching was kind, clever, hugely talented and infectiously enthusiastic.
"He was also a true maverick and his passion and creativity were evident in every dish he created. Our heartfelt sympathies go to Katie and all his family."
Chef Gary Usher, who runs the Elite Bistros restaurants group across the north west, said on Twitter: "This is awful news I’m so so sorry. He was so kind to me when I needed an arm around me more than ever.
"He was one in a million & a genius too."
Michelin Star chef Michael O'Hare wrote on Instagram : "A true avant-garde and free thinker. What a guy." Manchester chef Andrew Nutter said: "Gutted to hear this. What a legend".
Meanwhile, Gordon Ramsay previously described Paul as "pure talent, driven by a great creative energy; a powerhouse of the north", while food critic Jay Rayner said: "Paul Kitching is on more than nodding terms with genius."
