Chefs start annual #BourdainDay tribute to the late Anthony Bourdain

Chefs José Andrés and Eric Ripert announced plans on Thursday for an annual “Bourdain Day,” a tribute to the late Anthony Bourdain on his birthday, June 25.

“We decided to celebrate his birthday instead of June 8 — because that was obviously a sad day — to highlight his many contributions,” Ripert told NBC’s “Today.”

“We don’t want people to take advantage of it [Bourdain’s death]. That’s why we have been proactive in creating this day. We have made it easy for everyone to celebrate Anthony.”

{mosads}Bourdain, best known for his show “Parts Unknown,” died on June 8, 2018, of apparent suicide.

Ripert and Andrés told “Today” that to honor Bourdain’s life, fans around the world can upload a video or picture of themselves toasting to “Tony” on social media including the hashtag #BourdainDay.

The two chefs posted a video on Instagram Thursday to announce the annual tribute.

View this post on Instagram

IMPORTANT!! JUNE 25th – #BOURDAINDAY On this day we will celebrate the Life, Legacy & Birthday of our Dear Friend Anthony. Wherever you are & whoever you’re with, on 06/25 join @chefjoseandres & I by taking a moment to post & share your tributes & memories of Anthony using #BourdainDay & wish him Peace, Love and a very Happy Birthday on his journey. Regram / Spread the word! Cheers!

A post shared by Eric Ripert (@ericripert) on May 30, 2019 at 4:00am PDT