Carl Ruiz was a celebrated American chef, restaurateur, and popular TV personality, best known for his work on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games and other culinary competitions. With a passion for food deeply rooted in his family’s traditions, Carl Ruiz became a notable figure in the culinary world, leaving behind a lasting legacy after his untimely passing at the age of 44 due to cardiovascular disease.
Carl Ruiz Net Worth and Profile Summary
| Full Name: | Carl Ruiz |
|---|---|
| Born Date: | 4 April 1975 |
| Death day: | 21 September 2019 |
| Birth place: | Passaic, New Jersey, |
| Zodiac Sign: | Aries |
| Gender: | Male |
| Profession: | Celebrity chef, Television personality |
| Country: | USA |
| Height: | 5 feet 9 inches (1.75m) |
| Weight: | 70 kg |
| Marital Status: | Divorce |
| Divorce | Marie Riccio |
| Father’s Name: | Yezzid Ruiz |
| Mother’s Name: | Elisa Ruiz |
| Sibling: | George Ruiz |
| Net Worth | $3 million |
Carl Ruiz’s Net Worth
Carl Ruiz accumulated a notable net worth of approximately $3 million through his culinary expertise, television appearances, and entrepreneurial ventures. His talent in the kitchen, combined with his charisma on screen, made him a favorite among food lovers and television viewers alike.
Early Life and Family Background
Born in Passaic, New Jersey, Carl Ruiz was raised in a culturally rich family, with his father, Yezzid Ruiz, originating from Colombia and his mother, Elisa Ruiz, from Cuba. This blend of cultural influences played a pivotal role in shaping his passion for food, especially Latin American flavors. Carl often watched his mother and grandmother cook, developing a deep-rooted love for culinary arts from a young age. His brother, George Ruiz, noted that Carl’s earliest culinary inspirations came from the food traditions passed down by the women in his family.
Education and Culinary Training
Carl Ruiz’s formal education began at Collegiate School, where he completed both his primary and high school studies. He later attended the prestigious Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York City, where he honed his culinary skills and broadened his knowledge of international cuisines. This training laid a strong foundation for his professional journey as a chef.
Carl Ruiz’s Career in the Culinary World
Early Career and Growth in New Jersey
Carl Ruiz embarked on his culinary career as a sous chef at a New Jersey restaurant named Dish in Clifton. His commitment to quality and innovative approach to cooking quickly earned him a reputation, leading to his promotion as executive chef at Sabor in North Bergen, New Jersey, in 2002. That same year, he took on a role as consulting chef for Stephen’s Cafe in North Bergen, where he was instrumental in the restaurant’s relaunch.
Rising Through the Ranks
Carl continued to make strides in the culinary scene, assuming the position of executive chef at Son Cubano, another prominent restaurant. In 2011, he became senior chef at Brick Oven in Morristown, New Jersey. His unique approach to Latin and Italian fusion cuisine gained him widespread recognition and further solidified his career.
Marie’s Italian Specialties: A Personal Venture
Alongside his then-wife, Marie Riccio, Carl Ruiz co-founded Marie’s Italian Specialties, an Italian deli and cafe located in Hickory Square Mall in Chatham Township, New Jersey. They launched this venture on October 10, 2011, and quickly gained a following for their authentic Italian dishes. The restaurant’s popularity skyrocketed after it was featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, bringing national attention to their culinary creations.
Television Stardom on Food Network
Carl’s friendship with Guy Fieri led to several appearances as a judge on Food Network. He became a frequent guest judge on shows like Guy’s Grocery Games and Guy’s Ranch Kitchen, where his humorous, lively personality and culinary expertise won over audiences. His time on Food Network helped establish him as a beloved figure in both the restaurant industry and the television world.
Founding La Cubana
In June 2019, Carl Ruiz opened his final restaurant, La Cubana, in the Meatpacking District of New York City. Specializing in traditional Cuban dishes, La Cubana was a tribute to Carl’s Cuban heritage and showcased his dedication to delivering authentic Latin flavors. With vibrant decor and a menu filled with Cuban classics, La Cubana quickly became a popular destination for lovers of Latin cuisine.
Personal Life and Legacy
Carl Ruiz married Marie Riccio, with whom he shared a love for Italian cuisine, but the couple later divorced. Despite their separation, they continued to maintain a mutual respect. Carl’s sudden passing in September 2019 shocked fans and colleagues alike. His death, attributed to cardiovascular disease, marked the end of a vibrant life filled with culinary achievements.
Carl Ruiz’s Influence and Impact on Culinary Culture
Carl Ruiz’s influence extended beyond his restaurant kitchens and television appearances. He was known for his lively spirit, dedication to authentic flavors, and his ability to bring joy to every meal he prepared. Carl’s life and career continue to inspire aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts, reminding the world of the power of passion and cultural heritage in culinary arts.
Remembering Carl Ruiz
Though his life was short, Carl Ruiz left an indelible mark on the culinary industry. His infectious personality and dedication to his craft will be remembered by fans and colleagues who admired his love for food and his commitment to sharing that love with others. Carl Ruiz’s legacy lives on in the dishes he created, the people he inspired, and the restaurants he built—testaments to a chef whose passion for food truly knew no bounds.
