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July Round-Up

Who can resist a summertime soirée? No matter where you are in the country, the produce is never better than in the good ole summertime, and chefs love to make use of the exquisite ingredients of the season! We were very fortunate to have four fantastic venues host memorable dinners in support of the JPF’s mission in July.

A plate of food at Oak & Reel's 90/90 dinner (Photo by Abby Gadbaw)

July 17, 2025 at Oak & Reel in Detroit, MI

The acclaimed Oak & Reel transformed its dining room into a celebration of French culinary mastery for this sold-out special edition of Oak & Reel’s The Culinary Collective series. Chef Jared Gadbaw, the two-Michelin-starred chef-owner, welcomed guest chefs Danny Combs and Dan Williams. The evening showcased a collaborative six course tasting menu that blended the distinct perspectives of the three accomplished chefs, each bringing their refined approach to classical French technique. The dinner perfectly embodied Jacques’ legacy of precision and artistry, creating an elegant tribute that honored both tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit’s culinary renaissance.

Diners at Holly Hill Inn's 90/90 dinner event

July 20, 2025 at Holly Hill Inn in Midway, KY

The charming Holly Hill Inn hosted a sold-out “Joyeux Anniversaire du Bluegrass” celebration that brought French joie de vivre to Kentucky’s horse country. Chef Ouita Michel collaborated with Chef Marc Puil of La Deauville Bistro and Martine Holzman of Martine’s Pastries for Kentucky’s only 90/90 tribute to Jacques. Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the inn’s gardens before a three-course dinner served at communal tables. The evening concluded with an elaborate cake by Chef Martine, styled as a bourbon barrel topped with a chef toque and a figure of Jacques. The evening perfectly capturing Jacques’ spirit of exceptional food and drink shared among friends.

Diners at the Frank Family Vineyards 90/90 dinner event

July 26, 2025 at Frank Family Vineyards in Calistoga, CA

The picturesque Frank Family Vineyards created a stunning tribute to Jacques that perfectly married French culinary artistry with Napa Valley’s finest wines. Chef Christina Machamer, a trained sommelier herself, crafted an elevated menu inspired by Jacques’ classic recipes for guests gathered at the renowned winery. The evening began with a reception on the patio, where guests enjoyed canapés and glasses of bubbly with breathtaking vineyard views. The celebration continued with a four-course dinner, each dish expertly paired with Frank Family’s estate wines to create a sophisticated wine country experience that honored Jacques’ legacy of excellence.

Chefs preparing meals at BOKA Group's 90/90 dinner event (Photo by Maureen Sanderson)

July 28, 2025 at BOKA Restaurant Group in Chicago, IL

The iconic Girl & The Goat became the stage for a powerhouse collaboration as four of BOKA Restaurant Group’s most celebrated chefs united to honor Jacques. Chef Stephanie Izard joined forces with her celebrated Chicago colleagues, Lee Wolen (Boka Restaurant), Gene Kato (Momotaro), and Chris Pandel (Swift & Sons). The evening featured a family-style dinner with wine pairings, where the quartet presented playful interpretations of Jacques Pépin classics. Communal seating created a warm, convivial atmosphere, while Chef Urban of Chicago’s Silver Fork at Center on Halstead provided guests with perspective on what a grant from the JPF can mean to Community Kitchens and the people they serve.

90/90 Press

The media took notice of these celebrations, too:

  • Napa Valley Focus featured the Frank Family Vineyards celebration
  • The popular bourbon website FredMinick.com promoted the Holly Hill Inn dinner as a destination for Woodford Reserve.

Every 90/90 event advances the JPF’s mission to increase access to culinary education for all, and we are so grateful for the support of the host chefs and the guests who attended these celebrations!

90/90 Nationwide in June

As summer heated up, so did the Jacques Pépin Foundation’s 90/90 Campaign! From JPF Grantee organizations, like House of Bah Foundation and Philabundance Community Kitchen, to intimate gatherings with culinary legends, each host raised vital funds and awareness for culinary education initiatives that change lives—proving that great food and meaningful impact go hand in hand.

Guests dining at Le Voltaire French Restaurant (Photo by Kevin Kabore)

June 1, 2025 at House of Bah Foundation at Le Voltaire French Restaurant in Omaha, NE

Nebraska’s exclusive 90/90 celebration was a day-long tribute at Le Voltaire French Restaurant, featuring both elegant brunch and innovative dinner menus. Chef Djibril Djamil Bah-Traore, founder of JPF Grantee House of Bah Foundation, collaborated with Le Voltaire’s Wilson Calixte and Cedric Fichepain to present European classics in the morning and vibrant Afro-French fusion cuisine for dinner. The celebration honored Jacques while showcasing House of Bah Foundation’s transformative work in empowering immigrants and refugees through culturally affirming culinary education in America’s heartland.

Chefs in the kitchen at the Publican (Photo by Katie Karpowicz)

June 4, 2025 at The Publican in Chicago, IL

The award-winning Publican transformed its iconic Fulton Market space into a French culinary showcase as Chef Paul Kahan orchestrated a collaborative five-course tribute. Six talented chefs from One Off Hospitality’s acclaimed collective—including Thomas Hollensed, Kyle Huff, Dylan Patel, Rob Levitt, Greg Wade, and Natalie Saben—each contributed to a menu featuring Jacques-inspired classics like Duck à l’Orange and Crepe Cake. Donnie Madia, a founding partner of the storied Chicago restaurant group One Off Hospitality, shared a heartfelt account of what Jacques has meant to him through the years. The celebration perfectly captured Jacques’ philosophy of simple, exceptional ingredients prepared with precision and served with warmth.

Chef with platter of chicken at Cafe Yaya

June 5, 2025 at Galit & Café Yaya in Chicago, IL

Michelin-starred Chef Zachary Engel collaborated with Chef Bill Kim (Urbanbelly) to serve his acclaimed Middle Eastern cuisine in the elegant event space at his new Cafe Yaya. The four-course menu was served in Galit’s signature communal style and featured creative wine pairings from boutique Middle Eastern winemakers. The fusion honored Jacques’ influence on Engel’s early cooking career while showcasing the unexpected connections between French technique and Middle Eastern flavors. Dina Altieri from JPF Partner Catalyst Kitchens Network and Margot Neibes from JPF Grantee Inspiration Corporation were on hand to share their perspective on how culinary workforce development uplifts Chicago’s neighborhoods and dynamic restaurant scene.

Chefs preparing a table of meals (Photo by Kate Morrison)

June 10, 2025 — Philadelphia Friends of Jacques Pépin (organized by High Street Hospitality Group) in Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia’s culinary luminaries united at JPF Grantee Philabundance Community Kitchen for an inspiring celebration that embodied Jacques’ commitment to culinary education. High Street Hospitality Group’s Eli Collins led an extraordinary collaboration with Nicholas Bazik (Provenance), Abigail Dahan (Provenance), Chris Kearse (Forsythia), Shola Olunloyo (Studio Kitchen), Greg Vernick (Vernick Food & Drink), and Christopher Curtin (Éclat Chocolate). The dinner took place in the training center with students actively participating in the prep and plating, demonstrating the strength of the Community Kitchen’s vocational program. This mission-driven evening epitomized Jacques’ belief in food as a pathway to empowerment.

A plate of food with asparagus, pork and mole sauce

June 12, 2025 — Dinner in the Garden with Rick Bayless in Chicago, IL

The legendary Rick Bayless opened his Bucktown home for an intimate al fresco celebration that perfectly captured the spirit of Jacques’ love for sharing meals with friends. The Chef and his wife Deann created a magical garden party atmosphere and served exceptional wines alongside a menu of lovingly prepared regional Mexican cuisine. This rare private dinner showcased the warm hospitality and authentic flavors that have made Bayless a champion of Mexican culinary traditions, creating an evening of connection and community.

Chef Lee Anne Wong and friends

June 21, 2025 at Koko Head Café in Honolulu, HI

The beloved Koko Head Cafe became the setting for a once-in-a-lifetime Hawaiian collaboration as Chef Lee Anne Wong paid tribute to her time working alongside Jacques at the French Culinary Institute with an incredible menu of French classics. Wong joined forces with culinary legends Roy Yamaguchi (Roy’s Hawaii), Robynne Maii (Fête), and Michelle Karr-Ueoka (MW Restaurant) for an evening that brought together some of Hawaii’s most celebrated chefs. This special 90/90 dinner made Honolulu part of the nationwide movement honoring Jacques, with Wong’s personal connection to the maestro adding heartfelt authenticity to the tropical tribute.

Chefs Reneé Touponce and Natalia Vallejo preparing food (Photo by Catherine Dzilenski)

June 25, 2025 — Stone Acres Dinner hosted by Renée Touponce and Natalia Vallejo in Stonington, CT

A truly magical evening unfolded under the summer stars at the historic Stone Acres Farm as Jacques himself attended this heartfelt tribute hosted by Chef Reneé Touponce and Chef Natalia Vallejo. The outdoor celebration featured Puerto Rican-inspired cuisine honoring Jacques’ late wife Gloria, whose Cuban and Puerto Rican heritage introduced him to new flavors. Chicken livers a la Gloria and arroz con pollo with platano leaves were high points of the menu, and chocolate flan cake with orange and hazelnuts made a sweet finale. This extraordinary dinner demonstrated how Jacques’ legacy continues to inspire chefs while supporting culinary education.

Wrapping Up

With participation from so many amazing chefs and inspirational Community Kitchens all over the country, the June 90/90 Celebrations served as a great reminder that people everywhere are invested in the JPF’s mission and work.

A Magnificent May 2025

A spectacular month of coast-to-coast celebrations brought together diverse culinary voices united in support of the Jacques Pépin Foundation’s mission to expand access to culinary education. From intimate fine dining experiences to collaborative chef showcases, May’s 90/90 Celebrations demonstrated the transformative power of culinary workforce development in communities nationwide.

Plates of food at River Bar

May 4, 2025 at River Bar in Westerly, RI

The month began with a waterfront celebration hosted by Chef James Wayman and his team highlighting local Rhode Island farms and Narragansett Bay producers. The evening featured a welcome cocktail reception followed by a five-course plated dinner, including a particularly lovely dish of lobster-creamed local oysters with spelt potato bread and fried ramps. Each course was complemented with beautifully paired wines to accompany the chef’s creations. Jacques himself joined guests for this delicious evening, along with Ben Dubow, Executive Director of Forge City Works. With opportunities to dine with Jacques and to connect directly with a local JPF Grantee organization, this was an especially meaningful and memorable evening.

Mark Tarbell and Barbara Fenzl

May 8, 2025 at Tarbell’s in Phoenix, AZ

In the Arizona desert, Chef and JPF Board Member Mark Tarbell poured his three decades of culinary expertise into a very special menu honoring Jacques in the beautiful Tarbell’s dining room. The evening began with a sparkling wine greeting before the sophisticated five-course menu and paired wines, showcasing the restaurant’s longstanding commitment to using the best local ingredients. Co-hosted with culinary educator Barb Fenzl and with a special appearance from Edwin Donnovan Jimenez, Director of Social Enterprises at the JPF Grantee UMOM New Day Center, the dinner highlighted the vital connection between established restaurants and culinary education.

Dining station at the Casa Teresa 90/90 dinner event

May 12, 2025 at Casa Teresa x The Square in Washington, DC

Washington’s culinary scene came alive with an innovative walk-around dinner experience featuring five distinguished guest chef stations and a very special appearance from Chef-Owner Jose Andrés at The Square. Chef Rubén García led a collaborative celebration alongside Kevin Tien (Moon Rabbit), Matt Conroy (Lutèce), Isabel Coss (Lutèce), Claudio Foschi (Oyamel), and Carlos Delgado (Causa). This progressive feast format allowed guests to engage directly with each chef while experiencing diverse interpretations of French techniques through modern and multicultural lenses. DC Central Kitchen was represented by Workforce Development Director Mikeya Kirksey, who shared her impressions of how being a JPF Grantee organization has uplifted the DCCK program and its students. The evening perfectly embodied the Foundation’s belief that culinary education creates opportunities for people from all backgrounds to share their unique perspectives with the community.

Diners sharing food at Bad Idea

May 13, 2025 at Bad Idea in Nashville, TN

Chef Colby Rasavong’s intimate four-course dinner on Bad Idea’s balcony made for another delicious night in Music City. Attendees were treated to a menu of creative interpretations of Jacques’ iconic recipes, including a delicate Comté and Gruyere soufflé. Drawing from his Lao heritage and extensive fine dining background, Rasavong demonstrated how culinary education creates pathways for chefs to honor traditional techniques while expressing their personal culinary voices. The intimate setting allowed for meaningful connections between guests, and reinforced the Foundation’s belief that communities are stronger with great food and warm company.

Plate with 90/90 dinner series menu at Tiro A Segno

May 14, 2025 at Tiro A Segno of NY in New York, NY

The oldest Italian heritage organization in the United States provided an historic backdrop for Chef Massimiliano Convertini’s tribute dinner with Italian influences. The evening began with a pre-dinner cocktail reception followed by a five-course meal, creating ample opportunity for guests to learn about both the Jacques Pépin Foundation and the Tiro A Segno Foundation’s missions. This collaboration between two educational organizations highlighted how culinary training serves as a bridge between cultures and generations. The intimate setting within this private club emphasized the Foundation’s role in creating networks that support culinary professionals and build communities.

Chef preparing food at Mixtli's 90/90 dinner event

May 19, 2025 at Mixtli in San Antonio, TX

San Antonio’s first Michelin-starred restaurant showcased the artistry of regional Mexican cuisine through the collaborative work of Chef partners Diego Galicia and Rico Torres. Their specially curated tasting menu demonstrated how Jacques’ techniques could enhance traditional Mexican flavors and preparations, and sommelier Hailey Pruitt’s wine selections created a beverage experience that complemented the cuisine. The enchilada totonaca dish, with sweet potato, salsa macha, and a savory crêpe made a perfect example of the harmony between French technique and Mexican flavors, and the evening reinforced the Foundation’s commitment to supporting culinary education that honors cultural heritage.

Plate of food at Fiola's 90/90 dinner event

May 20, 2025 at Fiola in Washington, DC

Michelin-starred Chef Fabio Trabocchi and Executive Chef Antonio Mermolia created an intimate dining experience in Fiola’s private dining room. The exquisite tasting menu featured fine ingredients and preparations inspired by Jacques, all paired with selections from Fiola’s award-winning wine list. A white Burgundy wine poured alongside a creamy omelet topped with caviar and parmesan foam was a standout pairing, but the favorite dish of the evening was delicate ravioli filled with foie gras. The guests shared stories of their personal connections to Jacques over a selection of dainty bonbons and mignardises, making a heartwarming end to the elegant evening.

Plate of food at Provenance's 90/90 dinner event

May 20, 2025 at Provenance in Philadelphia, PA

Chef Nicholas Bazik presented a once-in-a-lifetime tasting menu that highlighted his unique blend of classical French techniques with subtle Korean influences from his wife Eunbin’s heritage. Burgundy snail with spring peas, hazelnuts, and Bordelaise combined the tender bounty of spring with the decadence that French cuisine is known for, making for a delicious study in contrasts. John Gonzalez, CEO of Cathedral Kitchen, shared how being a JPF Grantee organization has opened doors for his program’s participants and their communities in Camden, NJ. The evening truly demonstrated that culinary education creates opportunities for meaningful life changes as well as exciting creative expression for people everywhere.

Server with plate of food at Emmer and Rye's 90/90 dinner event

May 22, 2025 at Emmer & Rye in Austin, TX

This popular Austin eatery hosted a special Breaking Bread evening where Tavel Bristol-Joseph and Kevin Fink returned to celebrate Jacques’ legacy with iconic dishes from his cookbooks. The informal à la carte menu made the celebration accessible while still bringing great food made from local ingredients to the Austin food scene. This approach reflected the Foundation’s work to make culinary education available in diverse formats and settings. Bella Kirchner, VP of Client Programs & Services at the Central Texas Food Bank, spoke with attendees about the impact of their program’s JPF Grant for their workforce development students.

Diners at Asador Bastian's 90/90 dinner series

May 27, 2025 at Asador Bastian in Chicago, IL

Chef Doug Psaltis transformed the historic 1883 Flair House into a stage for Spanish-influenced culinary artistry, with Chefs Christian Eckmann and Hsing Chen joining to create a five-course Jacques-inspired menu. Two seatings at the communal Chef’s Table featured pristine seafood and Txuleton beef sourced from small farms, expertly paired with Spanish wine selections. From soufflé to Crêpes Suzette, the menu bridged French technique with Basque inspiration. The collaborative approach among the three chefs demonstrated how culinary education fosters professional relationships that elevate the entire industry, supporting the Foundation’s efforts to create networks of skilled culinary professionals.

Plate of food at Giusto's 90/90 dinner event

May 30, 2025 at Giusto in Newport, RI

The month concluded with a spectacular waterfront celebration with Jacques enjoying a collaborative dinner hosted by Chef Kevin O’Donnell and featuring Giusto’s Executive Chef William Rietzel and Pastry Chef Sarah LaRose, with guest chefs Robert Andreozzi (Pizza Marvin), Basil Yu (Yagi Noodles), and Eric Brown (Frank and Laurie’s). The five-course tasting menu with beverage pairings began with passed canapés, including an old-fashioned tête de cochon (much to Jacques’ delight) and Champagne against Newport’s stunning sunset views. Each chef contributed their individual style while drawing heavily from classic French cuisine, creating a perfect finale for the month.

90/90 Press

We even caught the eye of some local media outlets in May! Emmer & Rye’s dinner was the featured event in Eater’s round up of upcoming specialty dinners in Austin, with Austin Monthly also reporting.

May’s extraordinary 90/90 events celebrated Jacques and the JPF’s far-reaching impact across diverse communities and culinary traditions. Each celebration reinforced our shared commitment to expanding access to professional culinary training that transforms lives and strengthens communities through the power of food.

April’s Extraordinary Events

The sun was shining on the JPF in April as eight restaurants dear to the Foundation hosted memorable tributes to Jacques in support of our mission.

Claudine Pépin, Rollie Wesen, Daniel Boulud and Jacques Pépin

April 6th, 2025, at DANIEL in New York, NY

What an extraordinary night! Chef Daniel Boulud and his team put on an incredible show of hospitality, generosity, and joie de vivre at this New York City institution. Guest chefs Cosme Aguilar (Casa Enrique), Emma Bengtsson (Aquavit), Rawia Bishara (Tanoreen), Rachel Bossett (Dirt Candy), Matt Hoyle (Nobu), and JJ Johnson (FIELDTRIP) contributed to the menu of cocktail reception hors d’oeuvres and the five-course seated dinner. The exquisite food and paired wines were outshone only by the warmth of the company and excitement of the live auction, when Chef Daniel himself took the microphone to encourage the bidders vying for his Park Avenue Crawl dining experience. The gifts collected at this event will single-handedly support dozens of the JPF’s Principal Grants, meaning the impact of this one night will be felt by organizations and individuals nationwide for years to come.

Guests at the Perini Ranch 90/90 dinner

April 12, 2025, at Perini Steakhouse in Buffalo Gap, TX

At this Texas ranch steakhouse, Chef Bruno Davaillon presented a five-course seated dinner paired with French wines. Held in conjunction with the Buffalo Gap Wine & Food Summit, the celebration commemorated Jacques’ previous visit to Buffalo Gap while showcasing Davaillon’s mastery of French technique. The contrast of the elegant cuisine with the rustic dining room made the evening a dynamic example of the way Jacques’ teachings reach people in all corners of the culinary world.

A tray of oysters at the Oberlin 90/90 dinner

April 14, 2025, at Oberlin in Providence, RI

This Providence hot spot radiated sophisticated beauty on a beautiful spring evening as the team provided first-class food and service. Guest chefs included Sky Haneul Kim (Gift Horse), Maria Meza (Dolores), Beau Vestal (New Rivers), Nikhil Naiker (NIMKI), Nick Gillespie (Dune Brothers Seafood), and Cassie Piuma (Sarma). The evening began with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, followed by an eight-course dinner, with dry-aged Rhode Island duck au poivre with blook orange and nurungji consommé as a highlight of the meal. Jesse Rye, Executive Director of JPF Grantee Farm Fresh Rhode Island, shared in the festivities with Providence food lovers.

Jacques Pepin, Marissa Ain and guests at the 90/90 dinner at l'escale

April 27, 2025, at l’escale in Greenwich, CT

Chef Frederic Kieffer presented an exquisite five-course menu with beautifully paired wines at this Côte d’Azur-inspired restaurant. The evening began with drinks on the waterfront patio, featuring a silent auction of items from Jacques and the JPF. The classical French menu was a delicious treat for Jacques and all the guests to enjoy, and a spectacular 3-tiered birthday cake—topped with a handcrafted figure of a rooster in a chef’s toque—made a uniquely Jacques-inspired finale.

Plate of food at Yono's 90/90 dinner

April 27, 2025, at Yono’s in Albany, NY

Restaurateur Dominick Purnomo and Chef Ian O’Leary crafted a remarkable menu inspired by Jacques’ dozens of cookbooks. A cocktail reception was followed by four courses with exquisite wines, including an elegant muscadet poured alongside a scallop crudo with preserved lemon and mint. Guests were delighted by the top-notch service, the delicious food, and the sparkling company.

Chef preparing dessert at Centrolina 90/90 dinner

April 27, 2025, at Centrolina in Washington, DC

Chef Amy Brandwein presented a special four-course dinner with guest chefs George Madosky (a.kitchen+bar), Cedric Maupillier (Barbouzard), Chris Morgan (Joon), and celebrated cookbook author Joan Nathan. The menu featured some of Jacques’ favorite seasonal ingredients in innovative Italian and French preparations, such as a bright ramp vichyssoise with lobster and asparagus, and a decadent foie gras appetizer inspired by a classic opéra cake dessert. Lucy Van Fahnestock from the DC-area Together We Bake joined for an evening that beautifully celebrated Jacques’ philosophy of technique-driven cooking that transcends cultural boundaries.

Jacques Pepin at Donahue's 90/90 dinner

April 29, 2025, at Donahue’s Madison Beach Grill in Madison, CT

Jacques’ hometown haunt came to life for a warm and welcoming 90/90 dinner on the Connecticut shoreline. The menu was designed to highlight classic French dishes, including a frisée salad, veal tenderloin, and poached pear tart. Although some people may only imagine Jacques in an extravagant dining room with white tablecloths and sparkling chandeliers, this casual event at Jacques’ local pub with his local crowd was an extra special evening for him and everyone there.

Guests at Briscola Trattoria 90/90 dinner

April 30, 2025, at Briscola Trattoria in Brooklyn, NY

A vibrant crowd of Brooklyn food-lovers enjoyed a magnificent night of Jacques-inspired dishes from chef-proprietor Silvia Barban, cooking alongside chefs Mavis Jay Sanders, Gerald Sombright (Troon), and Bilena Settepani. The family-style dinner featured a menu that danced between Italy and France with rustic elegance, including herbed cannelloni stuffed with caramelized onions, and a glorious St. Honoré dessert of puff pastry, cream, and caramel. Project Renewal’s City Beet Kitchen Executive Director, Barbara Hughes, attended the event to spread her organization’s mission to fellow New Yorkers.

90/90 Press

These 90/90 events also appeared in local media outlets:

With a busy month of meaningful celebrations and collaborations, it was a true pleasure to see Jacques’ philosophy of mentorship and nurturing new talent at dinners across the country.

Jacques Celebrated at Gramercy Tavern’s 90/90 Dinner

What a spectacular way to launch our 90/90 Celebration Campaign! Our dinner at Gramercy Tavern on Sunday, October 6, 2024 was absolutely magical, with Jacques himself in attendance, and friends of the Foundation and coming together to #celebratejacques in marvelous fashion. The event sold out with 110 guests, and everyone enjoyed a seated five-course seasonal menu with wine and spirit pairings, including a welcome toast with Westward Whiskey. The menu included many of our generous partners, including HINE Cognac, Comté PDO, Joseph Cartron Créme de Cassis, Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water, and S.Pellegrino Sparkling Mineral Water.

Chef Mike Anthony and Danny Meyer shared heartfelt remarks about Jacques’ incredible impact on the culinary industry and how they were honored to support the Foundation. As the Founder and Executive Chairman of Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG), Danny embodies the spirit of the JPF’s mission to bring excellence in culinary education to more people. New York City culinary training programs, including JPF Grantee Emma’s Torch, count on USHG as one of their primary employment partners for graduates of their training programs. Danny and his amazing crew at Gramercy Tavern are a testament to the power of prioritizing education and integrity in the hospitality industry, and we were thrilled to celebrate Jacques with them!

We hope our guests enjoyed the evening as much as we enjoyed having them with the JPF and Jacques. While Jacques enthusiastically supports our 90/90 Celebrations, he will not be attending all of them, so this was an especially meaningful event. We look forward to celebrating with his supporters nationwide as we honor Jacques’ passion for culinary education through these special experiences. It was truly a beautiful beginning to our 90/90 adventure, and we can’t wait for many more to come!

To find out about all upcoming 90/90 Celebrations, please visit our 90/90 events page.

90/90 Celebrations Coming to New York

Join the Jacques Pépin Foundation as we kick off the 90/90 Celebration Campaign in the city that never sleeps — and really knows how to eat! There’s no better place to launch our nationwide campaign than the bustling and beautiful home of some of our country’s top chefs and restaurants.

With 90 ticketed dinners celebrating 90 years of Jacques, our goal is to raise a record amount of funds to advance the JPF’s mission of improving lives through culinary education.

Kickoff Dinner

Join Jacques Pépin, Claudine Pépin and Rollie Wesen for a legendary kick-off 90/90 dinner at Gramercy Tavern, hosted by Executive Chef Mike Anthony and Danny Meyer, Founder and Executive Chairman of Union Square Hospitality Group. This four-course seated dinner in New York City’s beloved restaurant will showcase contemporary American cuisine and seasonal ingredients. This is the first dinner in the series leading up to Jacques Pépin’s 90th birthday. Be a part of culinary history and join this celebratory event!

Get tickets

Next Up

Can’t make it to the Gramercy Tavern event? Curious about other 90/90 dinners in New York City? Follow the links below for details on other fabulous 90/90 events.

  • Point Seven (10/25) — Don’t miss “Jacques Pépin’s 90/90 Culinary Celebration” at Point Seven — an evening set to be both unforgettable and inspiring. Hosted by renowned Chef Franklin Becker, this dining experience is a heartfelt tribute to the culinary icon Jacques Pépin.
  • King (10/28) — King is relaxed, simple and elegant. Chef Angeles’s menu for this 90/90 celebration will pay homage to Jacques Pépin’s hometown, Bourg-en-Bresse, and their traditional celebration of La Fête du Vincuit.
  • Craft (10/30) — Join Chef Tom Colicchio for an unforgettable night of food and drink inspired by Tom’s lifelong admiration of Jacques Pépin.

See the full calendar of upcoming events nationwide.

Stay Informed

Be the first to learn about upcoming events for our 90/90 Celebration Campaign. Sign up for updates.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?

Jacques will be dining at Marea in New York City on Thursday, June 6, 2024! To help us gear up for the 90/90 Dinner Series starting in the fall, Marea Restaurant has generously pledged 25% of their proceeds from that night to the Jacques Pépin Foundation.

The talented chefs at this acclaimed Central Park South restaurant are preparing special Jacques-inspired dishes in addition to their incredible a la carte menu of Italian seafood.

This promises to be an unforgettable night and a delicious way to get ready for the official 90/90 launch in the fall. We hope you’ll make a reservation and join us to raise a glass to Jacques on June 6th!

Celebrate Jacques’ 90th Birthday Nationwide

Chill the Champagne and stock up on birthday candles, because Jacques Pépin is going to turn 90 next year! That’s something to commemorate in and of itself, but at the Jacques Pépin Foundation we’re planning to celebrate both the man and the mission of the JPF.

Starting this fall, we are launching our biggest fundraising initiative ever: the 90/90 Dinner Series. We’re curating 90 ticketed dinners nationwide (including Hawaii!) to celebrate 90 years of Jacques. Our goal is to raise a record amount of funds to advance the JPF’s mission of improving lives through culinary education. Through job training in food service for people facing employment barriers nationwide, and improved health and food literacy for all, the gifts collected during this campaign will make a lasting change for the better.

With 90 dinners hosted by top chefs and restaurants across the country, plus home dinner parties hosted by YOU, and even live virtual events, there are going to be countless ways to celebrate Jacques’ lifetime of food education and joie de vivre. The party starts in October 2024 and runs through December 2025.

Everyone is invited to participate, so we hope you’ll join us in celebrating Jacques and the power of culinary education to improve lives and strengthen communities nationwide!