One of the most prominent names from UAE’s café scene, Gérard Reymond passed away on Wednesday. He was 68.
The owner of the iconic Gérard Café in Jumeirah had played an integral role in building the burgeoning café culture in the UAE. Having founded the Café Gerard chain in 1978, Reymond went on to open six different branches across the country in four decades.
Born in Toulon, France, Reymond first arrived in the UAE in 1978 with his love for baking leading him to open his first coffee shop in Sharjah in the same year.
Known for engaging with his customers, the well-loved pastry chef would often spend a major part of his day chatting with people at his café.
While the exact cause of his death is yet to be ascertained, waiters at the coffee shop confirmed that Reymond had been unwell for some time.
A condolence meeting will be taking place on Saturday, 12 September, from 9am to 5pm at Gérard Café, Magrudy’s Centre.
"In our remembrance of a legend in Dubai. Our great Gérard who touched so many hearts. We already miss you. Love you papa,” read a statement posted on the café’s social media accounts.