Jacques Pépin

Jacques Pépin is a legendary French chef, author, educator, television personality, and artist. Born in 1935 in France, he began his culinary journey in his parents' restaurant and later became personal chef to French heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle. After moving to the U.S. in 1959, he worked at Le Pavillon and became a beloved culinary icon. Over his illustrious career, Pépin has authored over 30 books, including the classic La Technique, and earned 16 James Beard Foundation Awards. He’s been awarded France's highest honors, including La Légion d'Honneur, and the prestigious Julia Child Award. A longtime friend of Julia Child, they starred in the Emmy-winning Julia and Jacques Cooking at Home. In 2016, Pépin founded the Jacques Pépin Foundation, continuing his legacy of culinary education. He has inspired generations, both in the kitchen and through his artwork, and still calls Connecticut home.