TRIBUTES have been paid to a "passionate and strong" restaurant boss after her sudden death.
Paula Tabourel passed away in her sleep from heart failure at her Perth home on Saturday night, aged 53.
The popular businesswoman owned Cardo restaurant, on the city's South Street, after bringing many other successful eateries to the area.
She leaves behind husband Herve, and children Max and Roxanne.
In a heartbreaking post on the restaurant's Facebook page, shattered Roxanne led tributes to her "incredible" mum.
She said: "As most of you already know, my mother Paula Tabourel, the face of Cardo passed away on Saturday the 20th of November.
"My family and I would like to thank you all for your incredible words of support and all the the love we have received. It is a true testiment to the incredible woman my mum was.
"The funeral has been arranged for Tuesday the 7th of December meaning the restaurant will be shut on that day.
"We would honestly love for as many of you to be there, to share with us in our pain and to pay respects to the most incredible woman to have ever lived. It would mean the world to my father, brother and I to see you all there."
Other tributes have now flooded in from across the city and beyond.
One said: "We were heartbroken at the weekend to hear of the passing of Paula Tabourel. Paula and Herve have brought many successful eateries to Perth over the years and have always had the magic touch, their most recent being Cardo.
"Paula – such a passionate, strong, independent, engaging & downright fabulous woman. Your passing highlights the vulnerability of us all.
"Herve along with you children, Max & Roxanne, we send our love and strength to help you through this inconsolable time.
"Rest in peace Paula – thoughts of you will always bring a smile. The world, but Perth especially, is certainly a smaller place without you in it."
Another added: "Very fond memories of Paula Tabourel who died at the weekend.
"A great character who always gave you a fabulous welcome.
"My prayers are with Herve, Roxanne and Max. RIP"
And a third wrote: "Paula was so full of life, an amazing advocate for Perth and the hospitality industry, a warm and friendly woman and a passionate businesswoman and entrepreneur.
"Many of the restaurants we eat in today were dreamt up and kick started by Paula and Hervé.
"I shall really miss her warm welcome in the cafe, her friendly chats, her amazing service, her outspoken passion and her smile. She really was a force of nature."
Cardo restaurant will close on the day of Paula's funeral to allow staff to attend, with a wake planned at the premises after the service.
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