The D.C. Restaurant Industry Remembers Mark Kuller

The D.C. restaurant industry was deeply saddened by the news yesterday that restaurateur Mark Kuller has died. Many have been expressing their condolences and memories on social media and on personal blogs. Eater is also collecting tributes sent to us here: if you have some words to share about Mark Kuller, send them to dc@eater.com.

"I remember the first time I met Mark, it was at Marcel's, at the time he wasn't in the restaurant business. I recall being so impressed by his knowledge of food and his love for wine. He was a true diner in every sense... it explains the success and reputation of his restaurants, and legacy, today." — Robert Wiedmaier, Chef / Owner, Marcel's

"I have known Mark since I was a young restaurant manager / sommelier working at Cafe Atlantico. I was immersed in a world of South American wine and Mark would come in for dinner and bring a bottle of fancy French wine, of which I knew nothing about and he would share it with me and tell me about it as he had dinner. I will always appreciate his generosity. And as I grew from a young manager to a Restaurateur, Mark always supported us and continued to encourage us. I will miss you Mark Kuller." — Todd Thrasher, EatGoodFood

"Mark was opening Proof at the very same time I was purchasing Cashion's and our paths crossed quite often (Proof opened about a week before we finalized the purchase of Cashion's). From that time on, every year a positive review was published he would take the time to CALL and congratulate us- it just became a 'thing' that we did towards eachother. There are few people in the industry that have (had) such a voracious appetite and passion for life and it was/is inspiring and contagious. He will be missed." — Justin Abad, Cashion's Eat Place

"I adored his energy and his love of all this delicious and delightful. Mark always had a smile and wisdom to share. My heart breaks for his family and friends. Keeping them all in my prayers and sending wishes of strength and peace." — Monica Bhide, food writer

"Mark had a deep passion for every detail of his restaurants we remember seeing him many an early morning on 14/S as we walked to cork market. He was always there going over every detail of build out with architects, builders, designers as he was creating his vision for Doi Moi." - Diane Gross and Khalid Pitts, Cork

Mark Kuller