The Edmonton culinary community is mourning the death of Brad Smoliak, a respected Alberta chef whose decades-long career extended far beyond restaurant kitchens. He was remembered as a chef, restaurateur, educator, entrepreneur, product developer, and passionate supporter of local food.

Brad died peacefully on August 11, 2026, at the age of 62, leaving behind his wife, Leanne Smoliak, as well as family members, friends, colleagues, students, and countless people who encountered his work throughout his career.

Over the years, Brad became an influential figure within Edmonton’s food scene. His professional journey included leadership and ownership roles connected with establishments such as Hardware Grill and the Royal Mayfair Golf & Country Club. He later continued sharing his culinary knowledge through Kitchen by Brad Smoliak, offering cooking classes, private events, and other food experiences.

His influence also reached the food-product industry. Brad developed recipes and products for clients across North America, with professional work involving The Little Potato Company, Kitchen Partners, and Nestlé. His expertise allowed him to contribute to culinary demonstrations, food events, product development, and community initiatives.

One of the memorable milestones of his career came in 2005, when Brad had the opportunity to cook for Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Alberta. The experience became a notable achievement in a career defined by dedication to food and hospitality.

Brad also played a role in promoting Alberta’s local food culture. His connection with Slow Food Edmonton reflected his appreciation for local ingredients, producers, traditional food practices, and the importance of supporting the people behind Alberta’s food system.

Teaching was another meaningful part of Brad’s life. Through cooking classes, demonstrations, and other educational opportunities, he shared his knowledge with aspiring cooks, food enthusiasts, colleagues, and members of the wider community.

In later years, Brad was associated with Fuge Sausage, an Edmonton business focused on sausage making and family food traditions. His involvement continued his longstanding connection with food, craftsmanship, and community.

For Edmonton’s culinary industry, Brad’s passing represents the loss of a respected professional whose influence reached multiple generations. His career demonstrated that the culinary profession could extend into education, entrepreneurship, community building, product development, and mentorship.

Beyond the restaurants, kitchens, and businesses associated with his career, Brad leaves behind relationships built through years of cooking and collaboration. Friends, colleagues, students, and fellow food professionals will remember the knowledge he shared and the experiences created around his work.

His professional accomplishments tell only part of his story. To those closest to him, Brad was a husband, friend, mentor, and family member whose presence meant far more than his professional résumé could capture.

As his family, friends, colleagues, and Edmonton’s culinary community grieve, Brad Smoliak’s influence will continue through the people he taught, the recipes and products he helped develop, the establishments he contributed to, and the many memories created throughout his career.

Brad Smoliak’s death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Alberta’s culinary history. His dedication to food, education, community, and hospitality leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to be remembered throughout Edmonton and beyond.