PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland culinary community is mourning the loss of Justin Woodward, a celebrated chef and James Beard Award nominee, who passed away at the age of 43.
Woodward, best known for his years leading the kitchens at Castagna and OK Omens, died from liver failure related to alcoholism, his family confirmed in an obituary shared online.
Remembering a Creative Force in Portland’s Culinary Scene
OK Omens, where Woodward most recently served as head chef, announced his death on Instagram Monday. “He was a deeply loyal friend and he will be mourned and missed by us all,” the restaurant wrote.
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Woodward spent nearly 15 years shaping Portland’s fine dining scene, first at Castagna, one of the city’s most influential restaurants, and later at its sister wine bar, OK Omens. His cooking blended artistry and precision, earning him national recognition and multiple James Beard Award nominations, including Rising Star Chef in 2013 and Best Chef: Northwest from 2015 through 2018.
In a 2023 interview with KOIN 6 News, Woodward reflected on his passion for creativity and flavor. “I want the food to be obviously delicious,” he said, “but I also want it to be exciting and beautiful.”
A Legacy of Excellence and Authenticity
Throughout his career, Woodward was known for his inventive approach to Pacific Northwest cuisine, seamlessly combining local ingredients with global inspiration. Colleagues and fellow chefs described him as a visionary whose dishes were both elegant and emotionally resonant.
“Justin helped define what Portland dining could be,” one former colleague said. “He was always pushing boundaries, but never lost sight of what made food meaningful.”
A Message of Openness and Hope
In their statement, Woodward’s family shared candidly about the circumstances of his death, hoping his story will encourage compassion and understanding for others facing addiction.
“There is often shame associated with these struggles, and we hope this transparency will help inspire others to get help when needed,” the family said.
Advocates and members of Portland’s restaurant community echoed that sentiment, noting that substance abuse and mental health challenges are common in the high-pressure world of hospitality — and that openness like this helps reduce stigma.
Honoring His Memory
A funeral service for Justin Woodward will be held on October 13 near his home in Oceanside, California. His family and friends are inviting those who knew him to celebrate not only his career but the warmth and artistry he brought into their lives.
Woodward leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the kitchens he led — one built on creativity, generosity, and an unrelenting love for his craft.
