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Dick Brennan Sr., a member of the famed family of restaurateurs, beloved 'Irishman' and co-mastermind behind Commander's Palace transformation into a world renowned dining institution, has passed away of natural causes at the age of 84. Among Brennan's many achievements—including the invention of Commander's beloved jazz brunch, founding the super krewe Bacchus, and influencing a generation of chefs including Frank Brigtsen and Emeril Lagasse–David Lee Simmons also reports:
Along with his sister Ella, Mr. Brennan in 1984 co-wrote "The Commander's Palace New Orleans Cookbook." Under their direction, Commander's Palace won in 1993 a James Beard Award for outstanding service and in 1996 for outstanding restaurant.
Brennan's children Dickie Jr. and Laurel run the successful branch of Brennan's restaurants including Tableau, Palace Cafe, Bourbon House, Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse, and Mr. B's.
It's been a rough week for industry farewells, with Bacchanal cofounder and Bywater trailblazer Chris Rudge also passing away unexpectedly, and the ever-gracious longtime Arnaud's executive Lisa Sins sadly succumbing to cancer.
