Ben Byruch, the restaurateur and husband to “Top Chef” alum Leah Cohen, is dead at the age of 44.
Pig and Khao, which Byruch co-founded with Cohen, announced the news on social media Thursday.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of Bren Byruch — husband to our chef and owner Leah Cohen, devoted father, son, brother, and friend to so many,” the Instagram post read from Pig and Khao. “Ben was the co-founder of Pig & Khao and its creative heart. His vision shaped who we are, and his warmth, passion and sense of humor touched everyone lucky enough to know him.
“We ask for privacy for Leah and the family during this time. We will miss him more than words can say.”
The family recently took a trip for the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, which ran from Oct. 16 through Nov. 8, 2026.
Cohen shared photos of the family, including Byruch.
“Second time in Hawaii and I’m even more in love… Getting to cook Filipino food in a place with such deep Filipino roots meant a lot to me, and so many people came up to tell me the food reminded them of home. This is my favorite festival to cook at, and the care you put into the festival, the chefs and the community really shows,” Cohen captioned the post.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think following my passion for cooking would lead to so many opportunities. I’m grateful I get to do what I love, travel the world, and make these memories with my family,” she added.
Cohen, who finished sixth on the fifth season of Top Chef, and Byruch married in July 2016.
Dining and Cooking