Ryan Smolkin was a restaurateur, entrepreneur, and social media personality who founded the restaurant chain Smoke’s Poutinerie, with over 100 locations in Canada.
- Died: October 29, 2023 (Who else died on October 29?)
- Details of death: Died of complications from a recent surgery at the age of 50.
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Ryan Smolkin’s legacy
Coming out of Smiths Falls, Ontario, Smolkin built his reputation on exploring creative ways to serve traditional foods, especially poutine, a dish of French fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy. Dubbing himself the “chief entertainment officer,” Smolkin founded Smoke’s Poutinerie in 2009. He quickly drew attention for piling poutine with all manner of toppings, including meat of all types.
Smolkin also created the World Poutine Eating Championship, which brought more attention to the popular regional dish. His rock ‘n roll themed marketing and personality helped Smoke’s Poutinerie expand to more than 100 locations. Smolkin was known for incorporating fun and music into what he did. He sang at his restaurants, played rock videos at company headquarters, and played air guitar during company conferences.
When not hosting eating competitions, coming up with unusual new dishes, and recording YouTube videos in which he ate whatever gravy-covered meal was put in front of him, Smolkin worked with We Care, a charity that helps give disabled children an opportunity to experience camping.
Notable quote
“Will it gravy?”—from many of Smolkin’s YouTube videos
Tributes to Ryan Smolkin
Full obituary: Toronto Star
