Roger Duarte, the Miami food entrepreneur behind George Stone Crab and My Ceviche, was among seven people killed in a helicopter crash in Kenya on August 19. Duarte was 42. The crash happened near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County, northern Kenya, at about 9:13 a.m. local time, according to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
Five Americans were among those killed. The helicopter was carrying guests of luxury safari company &Beyond when it crashed while flying toward the Ewaso Nyiro River. Kenya’s Air Accident Investigation Department is investigating the cause of the crash, which remains unknown.
Duarte’s Legacy in Miami’s Culinary Scene
Duarte’s deep connections to Miami’s restaurant community are evident through both his personal and familial ties. His family has a longstanding presence in the city’s food industry, further highlighted by his marriage to Nicole Valls Duarte, a member of the Valls family, known for their ownership of the iconic Versailles and La Carreta restaurant chains.
The impact of Duarte’s work was felt widely, with tributes pouring in from friends and colleagues within Miami’s business and culinary sectors. Lee Schrager, a prominent figure from the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, reflected on his 12-year acquaintance with Duarte, emphasizing his dedication, strong work ethic, and deep love for his family.
