Oregon’s culinary community is in shock as news spreads of the tragic passing of Naomi Pomeroy, a renowned chef and owner of the critically acclaimed restaurant, Beast, in Portland. Pomeroy, known for her innovative and globally-inspired cuisine, was found drowned in the Willamette River on Saturday evening, leaving friends, family, and fans of her work in stunned silence.

According to authorities, the 48-year-old Pomeroy was kayaking on the river with a friend when she got caught in a strong current and lost consciousness. The friend managed to grab onto a nearby rock, but was unable to save Pomeroy, who was swept away by the water. Her body was recovered several hours later, with an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident ongoing.

Pomeroy, a resident of Portland, was born and raised in the city, and was widely respected for her contributions to the local food scene. Her restaurant, Beast, was a beloved fixture in the city’s culinary landscape, earning a James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in the Pacific Northwest in 2014. Under her helm, the restaurant received widespread acclaim for its unique, farm-to-table approach and innovative menu, which showcased the best of Oregon’s local produce and products.

Pomeroy’s love of food and dedication to her craft were evident in every aspect of her work, from her commitment to sourcing ingredients from local farmers and producers to her passion for creating unique and delicious dishes. Her cookbook, “To the Plate,” was published in 2017 and received critical acclaim, showcasing her expertise and creativity.

Throughout her career, Pomeroy was known for her kindness, humility, and generosity, often sharing her knowledge and expertise with up-and-coming chefs and culinary students. Her influence extends far beyond the restaurant, with her mentorship and guidance having touched countless lives in the culinary community.

As news of her passing spreads, tributes have poured in from across the culinary world, with chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts alike taking to social media to express their shock and sadness. The Oregon Food and Wine community, in particular, has been rocked by the loss, with many of Pomeroy’s colleagues and friends sharing stories of her kindness, generosity, and passion for food.

In a statement, the Oregon Food and Wine Foundation described Pomeroy as “a true pioneer and trailblazer in the culinary world,” saying, “Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the countless plates she inspired.”

As the culinary world mourns the loss of this remarkable chef, her friends, family, and fans will remember Naomi Pomeroy for her boundless passion, creativity, and dedication to the art of cooking. Her restaurant, Beast, will remain closed for the foreseeable future, as the community comes together to process this tragic loss.