Nashville Honors Jacques Pépin on His 90th Birthday

News Summary

Nashville is set to celebrate culinary legend Jacques Pépin’s 90th birthday with a series of fundraising events honoring his 75-year career in the culinary world. The Jacques Pépin Foundation is hosting 90 chef-hosted events nationwide, with four special gatherings in Music City. The festivities include a multicourse brunch, a wine-paired dinner, and an intimate dinner inspired by Pépin’s culinary creations, providing a unique opportunity to support culinary education for under-resourced individuals.

Nashville Celebrates Culinary Icon Jacques Pépin’s 90th Birthday

A culinary legend is about to turn 90, and Nashville is ready to throw a party! Jacques Pépin, one of the most significant French chefs of the 20th century, is being honored with a series of fundraising events across the country, including four spectacular gatherings right here in Music City. This is a special way to celebrate his incredible 75-year career as a chef, restaurateur, and culinary educator.

Who is Jacques Pépin?

For those who might not know, Jacques Pépin is regarded by many to be a candidate for the culinary “Mount Rushmore.” Over an astonishing career, he has published more than 30 cookbooks and graced our television screens as a cooking show host and judge on competitive shows. But perhaps what he cherishes most is teaching aspiring cooks.

Pépin has been active at the Culinary Arts Program at Boston University and was the dean of special programs at the International Culinary Center in New York City. His influence in the culinary world has shaped countless chefs and food lovers, making him a cherished figure in the industry.

A Journey Through History

Did you know that Jacques Pépin once served as a personal chef to the French President Charles DeGaulle? Quite the fancy gig! He also had an opportunity to take on a similar role for U.S. President John F. Kennedy but chose a consulting position at Howard Johnson’s instead. Talk about humble beginnings!

Pépin is known for his polite nature, spending time to thank kitchen staff and engage with fans. His humble demeanor has truly won over hearts, making him not just a culinary icon but a beloved personality in the food community.

The Jacques Pépin Foundation

In recognition of his immense contributions to culinary education, the Jacques Pépin Foundation (JPF) was created. This foundation provides free online instructional videos, grants, and valuable resources aimed at workforce development. It also partners with community kitchens to help strengthen their programs and support aspiring hospitality professionals.

Nashville’s Festivities

As part of the festivities to celebrate Pépin’s milestone birthday, the JPF has launched a nationwide fundraising campaign featuring a staggering 90 chef-hosted events across the U.S. Nashville is excited to join in the fun with four distinct events that aim to raise money and honor this culinary genius.

The kickoff event rolled out on January 15 at Margot Cafe & Bar, where culinary fans enjoyed a delightful three-course lunch inspired by Pépin’s recipes but with a Southern twist, thanks to the talents of chefs Margot McCormack and Hadley Long.

Upcoming Culinary Events

Mark your calendars for the remaining delicious events:

A multicourse brunch hosted by James Beard Award-winning chef Maneet Chauhan alongside Chopped champion chef Brian Riggenbach. Priced at $115 per person.
A four-course wine-paired dinner featuring chefs Tandy Wilson and Margot McCormack, offering Southern-inspired Italian comfort food. Surprise take-home gifts await diners! This experience is priced at $150 per person.
An intimate four-course dinner at Bad Idea, hosted by chef Colby Rasavong, inspired by Pépin’s culinary creations, with reservations available soon.

More Than Just a Celebration

Beyond just delicious food and the joy of celebration, these events have a purpose. The JPF aims to create opportunities and build a sense of community through culinary education, especially for under-resourced individuals. This celebration not only shines a spotlight on Jacques Pépin but also helps empower the next generation of chefs.

So, next time you enjoy a meal in Nashville, think of the culinary magic Jacques Pépin has sprinkled across kitchens everywhere! With great food and a fantastic cause, come celebrate a true culinary icon and support a brighter future for aspiring cooks.