Santa Barbara’s culinary world woke up to sad news Saturday morning, learning that Chef James Sly had passed away due to complications after a stroke.
Anyone who ever dined at the eponymous restaurant he operated with his wife, Annie, in Carpinteria from 2008 to 2018 had to sense the end of an era of classic, delicious dining. Many restaurant owners and hospitality professionals are sharing memories.
“He was a wonderful friend, an amazing chef, mentor, and restaurateur who will always have my highest respect,” said Frank Ostini of the Hitching Post 2 and Hitching Post Wines. “James was a great supporter of local wines, always giving me guidance and instilling confidence in my style, as both a chef and winemaker. The Santa Barbara culinary scene lost one of its best.”