Popular US-based Ghanaian chef and restaurant owner Chef Big Mo dies

The Ghanaian community at home and abroad is reeling from the heartbreaking news of the passing of Chef Big Mo, the charismatic culinary force behind the famed Osu RE Grill in the Bronx, New York.

Known not just for his mouthwatering grills but for his larger-than-life personality, Chef Big Mo was more than a chef, he was a cultural ambassador, a community pillar, and a friend to many.

Chef Big Mo
Chef Big Mo

His restaurant, nestled at 1344 E Gunhill Road, wasn’t just a place to eat, it was a sanctuary for Ghanaians in the diaspora craving a taste of home.

From sizzling suya to smoky jollof, his dishes told stories of heritage, resilience, and celebration. Celebrities, business moguls, and everyday patrons alike flocked to his eatery, drawn by the aroma of authenticity and the warmth of his welcome.

Chef Big Mo, Derek Luke, Ghanaian chef, Social media, New York restaurant, Chef Mo and Derek Luke
The late Chef Big Mo with Hollywood actor Derek Luke and fans on the street. Photo source: @osu_r.e_grill Source: Instagram

The news of his untimely death was confirmed by Ghanaian blogger Phylx Entertainment and veteran musician Prince Bright of Buk Bak fame, both of whom took to social media to share emotional tributes.

“Your name will be mentioned in the Book of Days,” Prince Bright wrote, calling on loved ones to gather for a candlelight vigil at the restaurant on Sunday, July 6, 2025, from 7 to 9 p.m.

The cause of death remains undisclosed, but the outpouring of grief has been overwhelming. Tributes have flooded in from stars like Afia Schwarzenegger, Bernard Aduse Poku, and Ameyaw Debrah, each sharing memories of a man whose kitchen was always open and whose heart was even bigger.

Chef Big Mo’s legacy lives on, not just in the recipes he perfected, but in the lives he touched. His story is a reminder that food is more than sustenance; it’s connection, culture, and love served hot off the grill.

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King Bygone is a Celebrity and Entertainment Blogger, freelance publicist, social media marketer, event promoter, and entrepreneur. Over the years, he has established himself as a key figure in Ghana's digital media landscape.