On June 8, 2024, renowned California food critics Allan Borgen and Isabelle “Izzy” Busse perished in a fatal car accident in Laclede County, Missouri. Their 2023 Chrysler Pacifica was hit by a semi-truck on Interstate 44 around 6:45 p.m., resulting in the immediate death of 75-year-old Borgen. Busse, 54, was rushed to a local hospital but later succumbed to her injuries.
Borgen and Busse were acclaimed for their radio show, “Let’s Dine Out,” on KCAA. The show, noted for its exploration of local restaurants, particularly in the Inland Empire region of California, showcased the duo’s passion for food and commitment to local eateries.
KCAA’s general manager, Mark Westwood, shared his grief on social media, stating, “Everyone at KCAA is profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of our friends and colleagues. Saturday afternoons at 4 p.m. will never be the same without Let’s Dine Out. They will be greatly missed.”
Borgen’s legacy in the food industry extended beyond his radio show. He also hosted “Table for Two” on KVCR-TV and authored restaurant reviews for various local newspapers. His son, Michael Borgen, spoke to the Los Angeles Times, highlighting his father’s dedication to people and improving the dining experience. “He was passionate about restaurants, but his greatest concern was for people,” Michael said. “His love for food was immense. Besides having a heart of gold, he always wanted to make others feel good.”
Colleagues and community members paid tribute to Borgen’s distinctive Hawaiian shirts and his constructive, friendly approach to food criticism. Lillian Vasquez, a producer and host at KVCR, praised Borgen’s positive impact on the community, stating, “He typically highlighted positive aspects in each review. While he would mention areas for improvement, he was generally a very positive reviewer, and owners recognized him as a friendly critic.”
The pair’s commitment to promoting local restaurants earned them the respect of many owners. Borgen, in particular, was remembered for his dedication to supporting small businesses. “Thinking about the owners, they had someone that was their friend, that was gonna help them along and say, ‘This is okay to eat here in the Inland Empire.’ “We have some fantastic hidden gems and wonderful, beautiful restaurants, and he always made an effort to highlight them,” Vasquez added.
The Missouri Highway Patrol’s report did not disclose the condition of the semi-truck driver involved in the collision. The investigation into the circumstances of the accident is still underway.
The untimely deaths of Allan Borgen and Izzy Busse have left a substantial gap in the food community. However, their significant contributions and enduring legacy will continue to shape the industry.