Tributes flow for chef
In 1999, he was headhunted to become the head chef of Aqua Luna Bar and Restaurant at Sydney’s East Circular Quay, receiving rave reviews for his “dynamic” and “bigflavoured” menus.
He would open the awardwinning La Sala (The Room), a modern Italian restaurant, in Woollahra in 2005.
O’Donoghue worked alongside Simpson in London in the Nineties before the River Cafe colleagues were reunited for The Best.
“You could tell physically that he wasn’t well,” O’Donoghue said.
“I’d say ‘You’ve got to look after yourself a bit better’ and he would say, ‘What are you talking about? There’s nothing wrong’. He was always cheeky and charming. To that extent, socially his problems were well hidden.
“It’s a real tragedy, he was such a talented person. He really was one of the best chefs I’ve worked with.”
His peer and friend Jason Roberts wrote of his loss on Facebook paying tribute to the #younggun. “Devastated ...... RIP Darren Simpson !!! The world has lost another brilliant mind!!!! Sorry for those of you who maybe seeing or hearing this now ...”
Friend and journalist Shonagh Walker shared memories of her mate “Dazzler” writing: “I hope I wake up tomorrow and this is a dream” and “I know the last few weeks have been hell for you. You will never be forgotten. #love you xxxx”
Rick Stein’s wife Sarah responded to Walker’s post: “Lovely words Shonagh Walker. I am in such shock, loved Darren. Had such fun times with him and ... very generous xx”