Chef E.J. Lagasse

Chef E.J. Lagasse’s New Orleans Culinary Story

Son of legendary Chef Emeril Lagasse, E.J. is making a splash in the culinary scene in his own way.

E.J. fell in love with food at a very young age. Growing up, he worked in the kitchens of his father’s restaurants, including at Meril in New Orleans and Emeril’s Coastal in Florida.

After graduating from culinary school at Johnson & Wales, he spent time refining his skills in some of the world’s most renowned kitchens including Core by Clare Smyth in London and Frantzén in Stockholm.

Randy Schmidt, Courtesy of Emeril's

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Randy Schmidt, Courtesy of Emeril's

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Zack Smith, Courtesy of Emeril's

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(1) Emeril's, (2) Emeril's, (3) Chef E.J. Lagasse

In 2022, E.J. returned to New Orleans to take the helm as Chef, Co-Owner where he leads the day-to-day restaurant operations at Emeril’s. Following an extensive renovation in 2023, the flagship reopened with a refined menu that pays homage to the restaurant’s rich culinary heritage while incorporating innovative techniques and modern adaptations of Chef Emeril’s classics. The Emeril’s experience is a multi-course tasting menu highlighting seasonal ingredients. Emeril’s stands alone as the only restaurant in the MICHELIN Guide American South to receive two MICHELIN Stars, a distinction that recognizes exceptional cuisine worth a special journey.

12HRS in New Orleans - A 2 Michelin Chef Shows us Where He Eats | Ft. Chef E.J. Lagasse - Emeril's

12HRS in New Orleans ft. Chef E.J. Lagasse

Adding to the celebration, in 2025 Chef E.J. received the MICHELIN Young Chef/Culinary Professional Award, sponsored by Sysco. The recognition underscores Lagasse’s vision and leadership in carrying forward his family’s culinary legacy while charting a bold, modern path for New Orleans dining.

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Chef E.J. Lagasse

Chef E.J. Lagasse’s New Orleans Culinary Story