Jacques Pépin
Jacques Pépin is an internationally renowned chef, author of 30+ cookbooks, and host of 13 PBS-TV series. Born in Bourg-en-Bresse, near Lyon, France, he first began cooking as a child in his parents' restaurant Le Pelican. At age 13, he started his formal apprenticeship at the distinguished Grand Hotel de L’Europe. He then worked in Paris, training under Lucien Diat at the Plaza Athénée. From 1956 to 1958, Pépin was the personal chef to three French heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle.
In 1959, he moved to the United States and worked first at New York's historic Le Pavillon restaurant, then served for 10 years as director of research and new development for the Howard Johnson Company. He studied at Columbia University, earning an M.A. degree in 18th-century French literature in 1972.
He is the recipient of countless awards, including the American Public Television’s Lifetime Achievement Award, A Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award, and La Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest civilian honor. An American Masters film chronicling his life Jacques Pépin: The Art of Craft, debuted on PBS in May 2017. His most recent cookbooks include Quick & Simple, Menus: A Book For Your Meals and Memories, Poulets & Légumes, and A Grandfather’s Lessons. In 2016, his daughter and son-in-law created a foundation in his name that furthers culinary education in underserved communities; he is also an avid painter. Learn more at www.jp.foundation and www.jacquespepinart.com.