News of Kent Taylor’s death last Thursday brought an outpouring of tributes to the Texas Roadhouse founder and longtime CEO from parties ranging from politicians to sportscasters, with plenty of remembrances from restaurateurs in the mix. Taylor took his own life after struggling with the effects of a COVID infection, including tinnitus. Here’s a sampling of the reaction to the passing of the maverick chief executive.
GJ Hart, CEO of Torchy’s Tacos, former president & CEO of Texas Roadhouse
Kent was a legend in the restaurant industry, a truly one-of-a-kind, selfless and deeply creative leader who had the tenacity and the fortitude not just to succeed in this business, but to build one of the most respected restaurant companies in the world. I am very fortunate to have been on that journey with Kent for so many years at Texas Roadhouse, where he became like a brother to me. My life and my family’s lives are what they are in no small part because of Kent Taylor and the many wonderful people of Texas Roadhouse. (Statement to Restaurant Business)
Mitch McConnell, Republican Leader of the U.S. Senate, fellow resident of Taylor’s home base of Louisville, Ky.
Kent Taylor didn’t fit the mold of a big-time CEO. He liked it that way. Kent built a billion-dollar company with creativity, grit and a lot of bold risks. When they paid off—which they almost always seemed to—he gladly shared the results. Our city has lost a groundbreaking visionary and an inspiring entrepreneur. (From a statement)
Dick Vitale, college-basketball sportscaster
I'm in shock as Kent Taylor loved helping others. He helped us @TheVFoundation. He supported my gala & I had fan time when I was a keynote speaker at his annual event (via Twitter.)
Greg Fischer, mayor of Louisville
Kent’s kind and generous spirit was his constant driving force whether it was quietly helping a friend or building one of America’s great companies in [Texas Roadhouse].He was a maverick entrepreneur who embodied the values of never giving up and putting others first. My deepest condolences to Kent’s family and many, many friends. (Twitter)
Todd Graves, co-CEO and founder, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
Kent was a visionary, a legend in the restaurant world that so many of us respected. He succeeded at all levels of the business while always remaining an Operator at heart. His accomplishments at Texas Roadhouse created a legacy that will not be forgotten. (statement to Restaurant Business)
Jim Mazany, CEO of SPB Hospitality, parent of the rival Logan’s Roadhouse chain
I have always had a deep amount of respect and admiration for Kent, who founded and built one of America’s most successful family dining brands. Kent is a true legend in our industry, a man who blazed the path for so many of us who followed. (statement to RB)
Jessie Black, MSW
Pour out a Kenny’s Cooler and some honey cin cin butter for Kent!!! Worked for TXRH for 3 1/2 years, 3 stores, 2 states & met some of my best friends through this company. Corporate serving is whack but Kent Taylor built a family w/ TXRH that can’t go unnoticed. (Twitter)
Black Box Intelligence
The legacy he leaves on [Texas Roadhouse], and the industry will be felt for years to come. (Twitter)
Texas Roadhouse
During the pandemic, he gave up his entire compensation package to help support his frontline workers. This selfless act was no surprise to anyone who knew Kent and his strong belief in servant leadership. He was without a doubt, a people-first leader. His entrepreneurial spirit will live on in the company he built, the projects he supported and the lives he touched. (website statement)
Updated: This version of the story includes input from former Texas Roadhouse CEO GJ Hart.
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