September 21st 2024.
The world of food and cooking has lost a great talent with the passing of celebrity chef Greg Malouf at the age of 64. Many of us knew him from his appearances on the popular television show MasterChef, where he shared his expertise and love for food with audiences. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to this amazing chef and human being.
The news of Malouf's death was shared by former MasterChef judge George Calombaris on his Instagram page. He posted a photo of Malouf dressed in his chef's uniform, accompanied by a touching caption. Calombaris expressed his deep sadness at the loss of his colleague and friend, describing Malouf as a "giant of a human" and a "beautiful man." He also sent his love and strength to Malouf's family during this difficult time.
Malouf was a well-known figure in the culinary world, with a career that spanned many years and achievements. He was the second person in Victoria to receive a second heart transplant, which he underwent 21 years earlier. Known as the "Modern Middle Eastern Master," Malouf was a highly respected Michelin star chef who worked as a global consultant.
His love for cooking and sharing his culture's cuisine was evident in his regular appearances on MasterChef and Food Safari. Malouf was also an accomplished author, with six award-winning food books to his name, including Arabesque and Saha. His contributions to the culinary world will be greatly missed.
Tributes have already started pouring in for Malouf, with many expressing their sadness and admiration for the late chef. On Instagram, @georgekasimatis commented, "The master of Middle Eastern cuisine, a beautiful man. Deepest condolences to his loved ones. RIP Greg Malouf!" Fellow Australian chef Tom Sarafian also shared his thoughts, saying, "Greg was one of the most influential chefs Australia has ever seen. He put the misunderstood and underappreciated food of the Levant into the limelight." Journalist Stephen Quartermain also paid his respects, writing on Twitter, "Very sad to hear of the death of one of Australia's greatest ever chefs... Greg Malouf... aged just 64. The godfather of modern middle eastern cuisine. Condolences to his family and friends."
Born to Lebanese parents in Melbourne, Malouf was a trailblazer in the Australian culinary community, credited with popularizing Lebanese food around the world. He started his career as the head chef at O'Connell's, a high-end restaurant in South Melbourne, before becoming the Executive Chef at MoMo, a Middle Eastern restaurant, from 2001 to 2012. He received numerous accolades for his work, including "two hats" from The Age Good Food Guide between 1991 and 2010.
Malouf's health struggles were well known, having undergone a triple bypass surgery at the young age of 21 in 1981. He then had his first heart transplant in 1989 before receiving a second one in 2003. Despite these challenges, Malouf remained passionate about his craft and continued to innovate and inspire others.
In an interview with Tatler last year, Malouf reflected on the transformation of the food scene in Australia. He spoke about growing up in a Lebanese household, surrounded by the rich flavors of his culture's cuisine. He noted that the availability and appreciation of Middle Eastern ingredients, such as pomegranate molasses and za'atar, have significantly increased in recent years. Malouf also mentioned that he made a conscious effort to share and modernize these dishes for a new generation of diners.
The loss of Greg Malouf is a significant one for the culinary world, but his legacy will continue to live on through his work and the impact he had on those around him. He will be greatly missed, but his memory will be cherished by many. Rest in peace, Greg Malouf.
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