Anthony Sedlak, a driving creative force behind the Vancouver restaurant, The American Cheesesteak Co., passed away suddenly at the age of 29 at his North Vancouver home. One of Canada’s most vibrant young chefs, Sedlak leaves a legacy of culinary achievements.
“We are extremely saddened by Anthony’s passing,” said Andy Eng, co-owner of The American Cheesesteak Co. “He was a great chef, whose passion for food was inspiring. He literally nourished us and warmed our hearts. He left an unforgettable mark on the culinary world, but most importantly, he was an incredible person and a great friend. Anthony will be deeply missed.”
Sedlak spent a year, along with his partners, developing the concept and menu for The American Cheesesteak Co., which opened in Vancouver in October 2011. The restaurant was Sedlak’s much-heralded return to his West Coast roots. He had already established himself as one of Canada’s brightest culinary talents, after winning Food Network’s Superstar Chef Challenge in 2006, hosting four seasons of the series The Main, and writing a best-selling cookbook. With the launch of The American Cheesesteak Co., he brought to Vancouver a contemporary, gourmet take on one of his favourite regional dishes – the Philly Cheesesteak.
After the opening of The American Cheesesteak Co., Anthony went on to be involved in two television series produced by Force Four Entertainment Inc.: Family Cook Off (Food Network) and Million Dollar Neighbourhood (OWN). He recently re-launched the menus for the Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites.
“Anthony’s creativity, vision, and passion permeate every facet of our restaurant,” Eng said. “All of us at The American Cheesesteak Co. feel the huge void left by his passing. We are proud to be a part of Anthony’s incredible legacy.”
I had the pleasure of not only eating at one of Antony’s restaurants but had the opportunity of meeting Anthony. He was a gracious host that went out of his way to make you feel comfortable and welcome. It’s with a heavy heart that I put this post up but the one thing I do know is that Anthony Sedlak’s memory will live on in the hearts of the many people he touched not only personally but through his delicious food.
