Kevin Gillespie, one of Atlanta's most famous and beloved chefs and restaurateurs, is fighting renal cancer.

Here is this morning's statement from Gillespie's team:

After months of not feeling well, Kevin Gillespie has been diagnosed with a rare form of renal cancer. In the coming weeks, Kevin will have surgery to remove one of his kidneys. He has surrounded himself with a team of incredible doctors and plans to return to his restaurants as soon as he is able. Until then, he is deeply grateful for your support. As he recovers, Kevin requests that he and family are afforded the time and space to fully restore his health.

An Atlanta native, Gillespie began his culinary education at the Art Institute of Atlanta. While executive chef and partner at Woodfire Grill, in 2009 Gillespie earned a spot on the Bravo series “Top Chef” for the show’s sixth season in Las Vegas. He was one of the season’s final three chefs, competing for the “Top Chef” title in Napa Valley and also was voted “fan favorite” by viewers.

In 2013, Gillespie opened his signature restaurant, Gunshow, in the Glenwood Park neighborhood of Atlanta. In 2015, he opened his second restaurant, Revival, in Decatur, and started his Red Beard Restaurants group. Gillespie’s Gamechanger opened in 2017 on the 200 concourse of Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Over the years, Gillespie has authored two books, "Fire in My Belly," and "Pure Pork Awesomeness," and has received numerous nominations and awards for his restaurants and writing.

Cold Beer, Gillespie’s latest restaurant and bar, is described as the sister to Gunshow, and will feature a beverage program from Mercedes O’Brien and a menu of shareable dishes. The space will include a rooftop patio and two patios adjacent to the Beltline.

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