Naomi Pomeroy, a beloved chef and influential figure in Portland’s culinary scene, tragically drowned in the Willamette River near Corvallis, Oregon. Known for her exquisite palate and dedication to excellence, Pomeroy was pivotal in establishing Portland as a hub for innovative dining experiences in the mid-2000s. Her acclaimed restaurant, Beast, founded in 2007, became a model for intimate, French-inspired dining and a catalyst for attracting aspiring chefs, particularly women, to the city.
Pomeroy’s culinary journey included being named Food & Wine’s Best New Chef in 2009 and receiving a James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Pacific Northwest in 2014. Her appearances on popular cooking shows like “Top Chef Masters” further solidified her reputation as a formidable talent in the kitchen.
Beyond her culinary achievements, Pomeroy co-owned Portland’s celebrated cocktail bar, Expatriate, and was active in advocacy efforts for the restaurant industry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. She co-founded the Independent Restaurant Coalition to support relief efforts for restaurants and their employees nationwide.
Tragically, Pomeroy’s life was cut short while tubing on the Willamette River. Despite extensive search efforts, her body has not yet been recovered. Her passing has deeply impacted the culinary community and beyond, with tributes pouring in for her generosity, innovation, and advocacy.
Pomeroy is survived by her husband, Kyle Linden Webster, their daughter August, and her extended family. Her legacy as a pioneering chef and influential cultural figure in Portland will continue to resonate in the hearts of many who knew and admired her.
