'Top Chef Masters' Winner Floyd Cardoz Dies After COVID-19 Diagnosis

Famed Chef Floyd Cardoz died on Wednesday at just 59. His spokesperson told People magazine he passed away due to complications from the coronavirus.

Cardoz, who won “Top Chef Masters” Season 3, was admitted to a hospital a week ago, and later tested positive for COVID-19.

He posted an update on Instagram last Wednesday apologizing for a previous post that he feared may have caused alarm. It appears the earlier post was deleted.

“Sincere apologies everyone,” the chef wrote. “I am sorry for causing undue panic around my earlier post. I was feeling feverish and hence as a precautionary measure, admitted myself into hospital in New York. I was hugely anxious about my state of health and my post was highly irresponsible causing panic in several quarters. I returned to New York on March 8th via Frankfurt.”

Cardoz was born in India, moving to NYC in 1997. He made a name for himself with the popular restaurant Tabla, before opening North End Grill, Paowalla, and Bombay Bread Bar. His most recent establishments were in Mumbai, including the Bombay Canteen and Bombay Sweet Shop.

“Top Chef” host Padma Lakshmi remembered him warmly on Instagram, writing, “I am beyond saddened to wake up today and hear the news of my dear friend @floydcardoz's passing. Floyd made us all so proud. Nobody who lived in NY in the early aughts could forget how delicious and packed Tabla always was. He had an impish smile, an innate need to make those around him happy, and a delicious touch. This is a huge loss, not only for the professional food world, but for Indians everywhere. My heart goes out to his wife Barkha and their whole family. RIP.”

Hugh Acheson, who competed against Cardoz, tweeted, “Floyd. You were a gem. You were an amazing human and chef. You were a father and husband full of love and grace. I am so sorry. I love you. Rest in Peace my friend.”

Food Network star Alex Guarnaschelli called the news “devastating.” She tweeted, “I can't process it. A true gentleman in every sense and a great credit to the chef community. He will be sorely missed.”

Danny Meyer of Union Square Hospitality Group, who worked closely with Floyd, tweeted, “Love you so much @floydcardoz.”