A public report from the Los Angeles County medical examiner states that Jonathan Whitener, the chef at Here’s Looking at You in Koreatown and All Day Baby in Silver Lake, passed away at the age of 36.
According to the medical examiner’s case file, Whitener was found dead at home on February 7, 2024, however the cause of death is not yet known. Lien Ta, Whitener’s business partner and co-owner of the two restaurants, was contacted by Eater, but she did not respond. Here’s Looking at You said on Instagram on February 8 that business would be closing “due to family reasons.”
How did Jonathan Whitener die?
The Los Angeles County medical examiner-coroner has confirmed Jonathan Whitener’s terrible death. According to reports, he was discovered dead at his home, causing a sad day for his colleagues, admirers, and the culinary profession as a whole.
Jonathan Whitener’s actual cause of death has not been made public. Nonetheless, the deep impact of his absence remains, emphasizing the huge loss felt by the culinary community and all who respected his work.
Who was Jonathan Whitener?
Jonathan Whitener was a well-known chef whose legacy goes beyond his work as a chef; he left behind a rich tapestry of culinary brilliance, creativity, and invention that will continue to inspire future generations of cooks and food enthusiasts. His culinary vision and creative passion will be greatly missed, but his legacy will definitely live on.
Whitener’s origins can be traced back to the unincorporated village of Midway City in Orange County, where he spent his early years. From humble beginnings, he rose to become a chef de cuisine at Animal before establishing himself as a chef partner in Los Angeles. His diversified upbringing and significant experience have created his distinct culinary vision, establishing him as an industry innovator.