Jeffrey H. Blank

1950 - 2025

Jeff Blank, the fearless and wildly creative chef who helped define Austin's culinary identity through his landmark restaurant Hudson's on the Bend, passed away on Sunday, May 11 at the age of 74. A trailblazer of bold, Southwestern flavors and wild game cuisine, Jeff leaves behind a legacy as rich and layered as the meals he so passionately crafted.

Born in Pittsburgh, raised in Houston by George and Dorothy Blank, his love of food and adventure took root early, blossoming in the snowy peaks of Snowmass, Colo., where he co-founded the Wineskin Restaurant in 1974. It was there he crossed paths with the likes of Jimmy Buffett, with whom he shared more than a few wild nights and unforgettable stories, most of which are probably better left untold. Jeff always said Aspen taught him how to have fun maybe a little too much fun.

But it was in Austin, that Jeff found his true culinary home. In 1984, Jeff opened Hudson's on the Bend. What started as a rustic outpost just outside the city quickly grew into one of Austin's most beloved and iconic restaurants of the era and one of the most acclaimed in the country. Known for its exotic game-centric focus, Jeff's fearless cooking drew national recognition, earning accolades from Conde Nast Traveler, Wine Spectator, and food lovers far and wide.

Jeff's creativity extended beyond the kitchen. He authored two cookbooks, Cooking Fearlessly, and Fired Up!, and brought joy to thousands through special appearances, festivals, and his irrepressible sense of fun. But despite his success, he remained deeply grounded in the things that mattered most: family, friendship, and an intensely loyal heart.

Jeff was a devoted husband to Sara, the love of his life, whose warmth, wisdom, and tireless dedication made their home a haven. Together, they created a life filled with laughter, hospitality, and beautiful chaos.

He was a loving father to Andrew and Kristen, who carry forward his strength, creativity, and generous spirit. He beamed with pride over his grandchildren Weston, Emery, and Carter, each a spark of light in his later years, and Sara's daughter Addie, and granddaughter Wren, whom he cared for with warmth and generosity, and who he loved like his own.

Jeff's life was also marked by enduring friendships, none more meaningful than his bond with Abel Garcia, his right hand and a lifelong friend. Their camaraderie, built on mutual respect, laughter, and countless shared hours behind the stove and in the garden, was a testament to Jeff's loyalty and big-hearted nature.

Though he retired in 2016 due to health concerns, Jeff's influence endures in every corner of Austin's food scene - including the literally thousands who learned the art of wild game in his cooking school classes - and in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a man who lived life boldly, fed people abundantly, and loved deeply.

Jeff Blank is survived by his wife Sara; his son Andrew and his wife Laura; his daughter Kristen and her husband Brent Warner; and his grandchildren Weston, Emery, and Carter. He also leaves behind Sara's daughter Addie, her husband Whitt Langstaff, and their daughter Wren; and his older sister, Joanne Loveland of Chandler, Arizona. Jeff is remembered by a wide circle of family, friends, and fans who will miss him dearly.

In honor of Jeff's legacy, the family asks that you raise a glass, savor something spicy, and remember the joy of a meal made with heart and maybe one of those stories he told with a twinkle in his eye. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to PBS.

A Celebration of Jeff's Life will be held on Sunday, June 1 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Jeff and Sara's home.