NY Food Legend, Punk Rocker Dead at 54
A very popular figure in the punk rock and New York food scene had died.
Justin Chearno, a founding member of The Four Horsemen and former member of the band Pitchblende, has passed away.
He was only 54 years old.
Long Way
Chearno had a rather interesting road in his professional career.
He started out as a guitarist for Pitchblende, a punk rock band that was formed in 1991.
The group only lasted until 1995, but they did manage to put out three albums during that time.
I am not sure if Pitchblende was before its time or came along too late, but its particular version of punk was not what DC wanted at the time, as this style was more welcomed in cities like New York and Chicago.
The band broke up after a 1994 tour that was less than successful, to be kind, even though the band was getting accolades from critics and plenty of airtime.
Chearno became a revolving door for bands, but he seemingly found a new passion.
He is a founding member of The Four Horsemen in New York, which opened to rave reviews.
Chearno served as the wine director for the restaurant, which was considered one of the best brunch spots in New York, that is if you could get a reservation.
The restaurant announced Chearno’s death, stating, “It is a loss for the entire food and wine community, here and abroad, as Justin helped champion, teach, and connect so many people — from winemakers to chefs and so many more.
“We will mourn, and grapple with, this unimaginable loss forever.”
The restaurant was gearing up for its 10th anniversary, which was to include the rollout of its first cookbook, “The Four Horsemen: Food and Wine for Good Times from the Brooklyn Restaurant.”
Chearno was also part of another venture to open yet another restaurant by the end of the year, but how they will move forward on that project has not yet been announced.
Rest in peace, sir.
