Tribute to Rose Gray

On behalf of all of us at Fifteen we would like to pay a tribute to Rose Gray, MBE, the co-owner and founder of The River Café, who sadly passed away on February 28th. Fifteen owes much to Rose, who was a passionate, creative and highly talented chef and mentor.

Many Fifteen staff over the years have had the privilege of working with her from Jamie, who started our restaurant, to other chefs like Tobie Puttock – co-founder of Fifteen Melbourne – and front of house staff.

All of us who worked with Rose have fond memories that will be treasured forever. She inspired so many people and her legacy will live on in restaurants around the globe, such was her influence. She was exceptionally good at promoting young talent and the fact she was a patron of our charity is no surprise. People who work at Fifteen say they feel part of the Fifteen family but the alma mater was undoubtedly The River Café.

Rose, together with her business partner Ruth Rogers, made their restaurant a truly family affair. Their partners and children were all involved in the business across many levels and any new staff, who came to work there, fast became integrated into the family-like atmosphere. Her loss will be greatly felt by all, especially Ruthie, and our thoughts are with everyone at The River Cafe. We would like to extend our heartfelt sympathies to her husband, David, and her children Hester, Lucy, Ossie and Dante.