The hospitality industry is mourning and tributes have poured in for Auckland restaurateur Barton Littlejohn following the announcement of his death on Monday aged 57. He is survived by his wife Robyn and spas Zac and Tom.
Littlejohn grew up in the restaurant industry with his parents Valerie and Philip Littlejohn owning Wellington’s famous Orsini’s restaurant. It is where he got his first taste of what it takes to be successful in the industry.
Many heartfelt words have been shared by his peers. School friend and fellow chef Simon Gault honoured Littljohn on Facebook, "I am devastated to be posting the incredibly sad news that my long time school friend Barton Littlejohn passed away unexpectedly," his post read. "I have so many fantastic memories that will never be forgotten.”
Littlejohn was hailed as a mentor by many and all agree that his passing will be a huge loss to the industry.
