MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis barbecue legend Nick Vergos has died, The Rendezvous restaurant announced Thursday.
Vergos, 67, had been battling cancer, according to reports.
He was the son of Charlie Vergos, founder of iconic Memphis restaurant The Rendezvous, and was a critical part of the restaurant located in an alley across from The Peabody hotel.
It is with the heaviest of hearts that – after a hard fought battle with cancer – we announce the passing of Nick Vergos – a restaurant icon, a philanthropist, an amazing chef, but, most importantly, a father, a son, a husband, a brother, an uncle, a cousin and a friend to many. pic.twitter.com/Lnti3t4DGQ
— The Rendezvous (@Rendezvous_Ribs) September 5, 2019
Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland extended his sympathies.
“Today, Memphis lost a restaurant legend. I’ve known Nick Vergos for more than 25 years and knew his commitment to his family and their iconic Rendezvous. He will be missed,” Strickland said. “Thoughts and prayers to his wonderful mother, wife, children, and the entire Vergos family.”
Today, Memphis lost a restaurant legend. I’ve known Nick Vergos for more than 25 years and knew his commitment to his family and their iconic Rendezvous. He will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to his wonderful mother, wife, children, and the entire Vergos family.
— Mayor Jim Strickland (@MayorMemphis) September 5, 2019
Make-A-Wish Mid-South said Vergos was instrumental in their efforts to help children battling illness.
“Year after year, he went above and beyond what anyone would’ve expected to ensure that our wishes were top-notch, our events were well supported and that no child with a critical illness was turned down for a wish,” the organization said.
WREG’s Mike Ceide saw Vergos at a University of Memphis Tigers exhibition game in the Bahamas recently.
“Though he was sick, he wasn’t passing up a chance to see his beloved Tigers, for what turned out to be the last time,” Ceide said.
