Fans of Anthony Bourdain have been joined by former US president Barack Obama and UK celebrity chefs in mourning his loss.
The outpouring of grief comes after the 61-year-old TV chef, who wrote the bestseller Kitchen Confidential, was found dead in his hotel room in France on Friday.
In New York, handwritten notes, photographs and flowers have been left outside his old restaurant where he shot to fame.
“Low plastic stool, cheap but delicious noodles, cold Hanoi beer.” This is how Ill remember Tony. He taught us about food — but more importantly, about its ability to bring us together. To make us a little less afraid of the unknown. Well miss him. pic.twitter.com/orEXIaEMZM
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) June 8, 2018
One note said: "Thank you for what you gave to this world, a deeper understanding of culture and food.
"You have changed our lives forever. Love you forever."
Meanwhile, Mr Obama posted a picture of himself on Twitter eating noodles with Bourdain in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Mr Obama wrote: "He taught us about food – but more importantly, about its ability to bring us together.
"To make us a little less afraid of the unknown. We'll miss him."
In the UK, Jamie Oliver said that Bourdain "broke the mould".
Oliver wrote on Instagram: "I have to say I'm in total shock to hear that the amazing @anthonybourdain has just died.
"He really broke the mould, pushed the culinary conversation and was the mostbrilliant writer… he leaves chefs and fans around the world with a massive foodie hole that simply can't be replaced… rest in peace chef.
"Thoughts and love to all his family and close friends xxxxxxxxxxx."
Nigella Lawson wrote on Twitter: "Heartbroken to hear about Tony Bourdain's death. Unbearable for his family and girlfriend."
Heartbroken to hear about Tony Bourdains death. Unbearable for his family and girlfriend. Am going off twitter for a while
— Nigella Lawson (@Nigella_Lawson) June 8, 2018
And Gordon Ramsay said: "Stunned and saddened by the loss of Anthony Bourdain.
"He brought the world into our homes and inspired so many people to explore cultures and cities through their food."
Bourdain's partner, the Italian actress Asia Argento, 42, said: "Anthony gave all of himself in everything that he did.
"His brilliant, fearless spirit touched and inspired so many, and his generosity knew no bounds.
"He was my love, my rock, my protector. I am beyond devastated."
Bourdain had been in France working on an upcoming episode of his award-winning CNN series, Parts Unknown.
The broadcaster said in a statement: "His love of great adventure, new friends, fine food and drink and the remarkable stories of the world made him a unique storyteller.
"His talents never ceased to amaze us and we will miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and family at this incredibly difficult time."
:: Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.
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Sky News
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