‘Top Chef' Alum Leah Cohen Confirms Husband Ben Byruch's Death at 44

Top Chef alum Leah Cohen is mourning the loss of her husband, Ben Byruch, after his death at the age of 44.

"We are heartbroken to share the passing of Ben Byruch - husband to our chef and owner Leah Cohen, devoted father, son, brother and friend to so many," Pig and Khao wrote via Instagram on Thursday, November 12. "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."

The statement, which was also shared on Cohen's Instagram page, continued, "We ask for privacy for Leah and the family during this time. We will miss him more than words can say."

Byruch's cause of death has yet to be revealed at the time of publication.

The announcement comes after the Food Network's Chefs Making Waves Instagram account posted a photo of Cohen cooking alongside Byruch at the cable network's food, wine and spirits festival held at sea. The last event took place from September 21 to September 28.

The couple - who share two children - also appeared at the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, which kicked off last month.

Soon after Byruch's death was announced, many in the food space offered their condolences and shared their fond memories of the restaurateur.

"@leahscohen can't imagine what you're going through, but here if you need anything," Chef Jordan Andino wrote in the comments section. "Help with the business, childcare, a shoulder to lean on, a drink to celebrate life. He was incredible and am honored I got the opportunity to work with you both🙏🏾🙌🏾."

Cook Adeena Sussman added, "Ben was such a generous soul. Will miss his talents and smiling presence."

Cohen appeared on the fifth season of Top Chef in 2009 and went on to marry Byruch in July 2016.

In addition to co-owning Pig & Khao, the couple also ran Piggyback Bar in New York City.

While Cohen's social media pages are primarily dedicated to sharing recipes and food content, the author previously shared a glimpse into her love story with Byruch.

"Got married 9 yrs ago in 🇵🇭 we also got married in NYC so we have 2 wedding anniversary dates and somehow we manage to forget them both, but not this year lol," she wrote via Instagram in July 2025. "@bbyruch for our 10 yr anniversary we need to go back to @shangrilaboracay!!"

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This story was originally published November 13, 2026 at 4:05 PM.