Jacques Pepin is a legendary French-American chef, author and television host, best known for PBS cooking shows and 24 James Beard Foundation awards.
A master of classical French technique who champions simple, economical everyday home cooking. This profile looks at Jacques’s background, career and signature approach.
TL;DR
- French-American, born 1935
- Known for PBS cooking shows and 24 James Beard Foundation awards
- From 1956 to 1958 he served as personal chef to three French heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle.
- He received France’s Legion of Honour in 2004 and was the first recipient of the Julia Child Award in 2015.
- A master of classical French technique who champions simple, economical everyday home cooking.
Jacques Pepin key facts
| Name | Jacques Pepin |
| Nationality / born | French-American, born 1935 |
| Known for | PBS cooking shows and 24 James Beard Foundation awards |
| Location | New York, USA |
| Style | A master of classical French technique who champions simple, economical everyday home cooking. |
Background and career
He was born in Bourg-en-Bresse, France, and grew up helping at his family restaurant, Le Pelican. From 1956 to 1958 he served as personal chef to three French heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle.
Recognition and legacy
He moved to the United States in 1959 and spent a decade as director of research and development for Howard Johnson’s. He received France’s Legion of Honour in 2004 and was the first recipient of the Julia Child Award in 2015.
Signature style
A master of classical French technique who champions simple, economical everyday home cooking. It is an approach that has made Jacques a distinctive figure in the food world.
Jacques in context
Jacques Pepin is one of the chefs featured on Pickup Table 4, alongside Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali.
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Jacques Pepin FAQ
Who is Jacques Pepin?
A legendary French-American chef, author and television host.
Where is Jacques based?
New York, USA.
What is Jacques known for?
PBS cooking shows and 24 James Beard Foundation awards.
What is a notable fact about Jacques?
He was born in Bourg-en-Bresse, France, and grew up helping at his family restaurant, Le Pelican.
What is Jacques’s style?
A master of classical French technique who champions simple, economical everyday home cooking.
