Emeril Lagasse

About

Emeril Lagasse is a renowned American chef, restaurateur, and television personality. Born on October 15, 1959, in Fall River, Massachusetts, he developed a passion for cooking early in life. Lagasse's culinary journey began with formal training at Johnson & Wales University, followed by stints in fine dining restaurants across the Northeast and in France. He gained prominence as the executive chef at Commander's Palace in New Orleans before opening his own restaurants, including Emeril's and NOLA. His restaurants are celebrated for their bold fusion of French, Spanish, Caribbean, and Portuguese cuisines. Lagasse's rise to fame was also fueled by his charismatic television presence, hosting popular shows like Emeril Live and Essence of Emeril. His catchphrases, such as "Bam!" and "Kick it up a notch!", have become iconic. Beyond television, Lagasse is a prolific cookbook author and philanthropist, having established the Emeril Lagasse Foundation to support children's educational programs. His culinary empire includes numerous restaurants and a line of kitchenware, solidifying his status as one of the most recognizable chefs in the United States.