Feb
19
Chef Dave Teichman
When we started GeekBrief.TV, we were living in Highland Park, IL. Next door to us was a restaurant called Bluegrass. We became friends with the owners, Jim Lederer and Dave Teichman. Dave was the chef. Not just any chef…an incredible chef! Before we started eating at Bluegrass, we were happy with the quality of food at just about any chain restaurant. After we had a taste of Dave’s Cajun/American/French/Asian fusion cuisine, we were forever changed. Dave made his own mozzarella and cut his steak from the slab. Heck, he made everything except the ketchup from scratch!
Chef Dave and Jim kept our bellies full for two years before we left the Chicago area to do GeekBrief.TV full time. We have never been able to replace Bluegrass because the food was so fantastic, and because the guys behind it hold a special place in our heart.
Dave just passed away completely unexpectedly. I don’t know all the details. I just talked to Jim for a few minutes. He’s been overwhelmed by the response all over the country by people whose lives Dave touched. From what I understand, Dave had a sore throat for a couple days. While at home, he collapsed as his throat closed up on him. He was in the hospital for over 15 hours before dying.
I’m in shock. He has a wife and two young daughters. The community will certainly rally around them, but it’s going to be a hard journey for them. I am very thankful that several months ago, Neal and I had a crazy, wacky idea to drive from Texas all the way to Chicago to participate in a BBQ event Bluegrass had. Some of you guys were there and got to meet these people who have meant so much to us. The video below is from that trip.
Our friend Warren, who has been learning from Dave since when we lived there, will be taking over the kitchen. He will do an awesome job! If you’re ever in Chicago and can make it to Highland Park, please support Jim and Chef Warren and the team at Bluegrass!
