Tributes have been pouring in for well-known Irish restaurateur, Derek Ryan, who founded the Yamamori chain in Dublin.
Before opening the first Japanese restaurant in city centre in the 1990s, Mr Ryan was a carpenter and ran a waste company.
The first restaurant was opened on South George’s Street and after a few years, the business began booming and two further Yamamori restaurants popped up on Ormond Quay and in a second premises on George’s Street.
Since the news of his passing on Thursday, February 10, hundreds of people have been issuing their condolences to the family and publishing their fond memories of the ‘hard-working’ and ‘kind’ businessman.
One person wrote: “Derek was one of the nicest people I ever worked for.
“He was held in the highest esteem by everyone who worked for him as a true gentleman who valued and respected all his staff, irrespective of title or position.
“May he rest in peace. Sincere condolences to Emma, Julie, Rob and Graham, and all the Ryan family at this difficult time.”
A second mourner wrote: “Derek was a great man. We always got on so well and enjoyed many a laugh together.
“I always admired his can-do attitude, ethos of hard work and interest in the wider world.
“A very forward-thinking man especially when it came to establishing Yamamori almost three decades ago. He will be sorely missed.”
A third said: “Very sad to learn of the passing of Derek Ryan.
“Mr. Suave as I would refer to him to friends. Dublin culture throughout the 90’s and 00’s owes a lot to Derek.
“Although we didn’t know him personally he was a staple of life on George’s street and he will be missed as part of that furniture .
“My sincere condolences to the Ryan family and Yamamori family at large . Be at peace in power.”
Derek Ryan’s funeral is due to take place today in Dublin.
