‘Contribution To Community Is Immeasurable’
[Updated] Pembroke East Central MP Walter Roban extended his condolences following the passing of hospitality icon Arthur Smith, saying his “contribution to our community is immeasurable.”
Mr Roban said, “The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party joins with our fellow Bermudians and all who love Bermuda in celebrating the life of a culinary and hospitality icon Mr. Arthur Smith, commonly known to many as “Butchie”.
“With his world renowned restaurant Art Mel’s, Mr. Arthur “Butchie” Smith’s recipe for Bermudian Fish Sandwich became synonymous with our island and a “must sample” for countless visitors to our shores.
“As a businessman, role model, husband and father, “Butchie’s” contribution to our community is immeasurable. We mourn his passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.”
Update 6.33pm: OBA Chairperson Lynne Woolridge said,“It was with great sadness that we learned today of the death of one of Bermuda’s best known chefs, the venerable Arthur ‘Art’ Smith – the legend behind Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy.
“Known around the world for creating Bermuda’s best fish sandwich, he truly was the ‘Best of Bermuda’ – not only because he won that accolade 15 times – but also because of his hard work, humility and dedication to family and community.
“It’s said that if a person builds a better mouse trap, the world will beat a path to their door. Such was the case with Mr. Smith’s fish sandwich. Despite never advertising or even having a sign for the first 17 years of his business, people from across Bermuda and visitors from around the world beat a path to his door for those towering fish sandwiches on raisin bread.
“Mr. Smith embraced and displayed true Bermudian entrepreneurial spirit not only in starting his café but also expanding to St. George’s with the opening of the second Spicy Dicy a few years ago. The accolades from around the world, including from top chefs, are a testament to his vision, drive and desire to succeed.
“On behalf of the One Bermuda Alliance and all of Bermuda, I offer condolences to his family, friends and loyal customers. Mr. Smith’s legacy will live on for generations and no doubt will continue to evoke in all of us that feeling of being proud to be Bermudian.”
