Freelance Food & Drinks Writer

Thanks, John

Like most of Kansas City’s culinary community, I was stunned yesterday by the news of chef John McClure’s death. Like most, my mind’s filled with things I wish I could tell him.

John McClure, chef and owner of Starker's Restaurant

Like, thanks for teaching me how to cut up a chicken. Thanks for calling it like you saw it, for always cheering on those around you. Thanks for the spinach churros, and for having me ’round to Starker’s to taste mezcal.

Thanks for making my daughter’s 8th birthday so special. For donating snickerdoodles when I asked. For saying “yes” to every interview request, as if helping someone else was the most important thing you could do that day. Thanks for being you. Just…thanks.