Emeril's Son Becomes James Beard Award Semifinalist at 22

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E.J. Lagasse, the 22-year-old son of legendary chef Emeril Lagasse, has been named a James Beard Award semifinalist for Emerging Chef. Just three years after taking over his father's flagship restaurant Emeril's in New Orleans, Lagasse has earned national acclaim for his work in transforming the restaurant into a refined tasting-menu destination that reimagines classic New Orleans flavors through a modern fine-dining lens.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are considered the Oscars of the food world, and Lagasse's nomination at just 22 years old signals that the next generation of the Lagasse family is not simply inheriting a legacy, but actively reshaping it. Lagasse's work has already drawn critical praise, with The New York Times awarding the restaurant three stars and praising his vision, execution, and ability to honor his father's culinary legacy without being constrained by it.

The details

Shortly after taking over Emeril's in 2023, Lagasse closed the restaurant for extensive renovations, reopening it as a tasting-menu destination that features a progression of courses punctuated by elaborate amuse-bouches, tableside presentations, and nods to classic dishes from the restaurant's original 1990 opening. The transformation has drawn critical acclaim, with The New York Times describing the experience as lavish, exuberant, and deeply rooted in the traditions of New Orleans cooking.

• Lagasse became chef and co-owner of Emeril's in 2023.
• Emeril's underwent extensive renovations and reopened in 2023.