“You know, in 1975 I couldn't get a job in New York City because I was ...” — Emeril Lagasse Quote

You know, in 1975 I couldn't get a job in New York City because I was American. The kitchens were predominantly run by French, Swiss, German, and basically I got laughed at. I had education, I had experience, but got laughed at because I was American.

My family... always had the value of the family table and these cultural influences of growing up.

I don't limit myself.

I'm not a TV guy. I'm a restaurant chef and a businessman.

I've always done food that can work in a set time frame. The message I'm trying to get across is, it doesn't have to take three days to do this. With planning, you can do a lot and really have quality food every day.

By the way, the secret of speaking French is confidence. Whether you are right or wrong, you don't hesitate.

There are no French Puritans.

The French Revolution will be found to have had great influence on the strength of parties, and on the subsequent political transactions of the United States.

I don't want people to think I missed the French Open because I didn't want to go because I was just tired.

Back home everyone said I didn't have any talent. They might be saying the same thing here but it sounds better in French.