Jacques’ Received French Chevalier of the Legion of Honor On 57th Birthday

Jacques received the French Chevalier of the Legion of Honor — The highest decoration in France on his 57th Birthday at the French Consulate in New York.

“I’m blessed to do what I love to do every day and am being recognized for it.   Representing the culture of food and excellence from my country makes me proud to wear my french flag and honored to receive the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur.  The General Consul of France Mr. Bertrand Lortholary and his lovely wife Laurence Mezin, hosted a beautiful cocktail party for my friends and  I at the French Consulate in New York where I was given this prestigious medal. My dear friend whom I consider my family, Jacques Pepin, whom is also a Legion of Honor recipient bestowed the medal on me. ”

I have been in this profession for over 40 years and I feel very lucky with all the blessings I have received during this time. In the culinary industry in America, there are only a handful of Legion of Honor recipients.  They are Julia Child, Jacques Pepin, Andre Soltner, Alice Waters, Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, Eric Ripert, Dorothy Hamilton, Nina and Tim Zagat.   I am so proud to be part of such an extraordinary group. I truly am living the American dream.  Merci to my wife, my family in Bandol, France and California, and all my dear friends.  Many of whom flew in from all over the country just for this occasion.  There are many special people that were not able to come, but are significant in helping change my life to be where I am today.  To all of you, Merci beaucoup. -Jacques Torres 

Photos by Eric Vitale Photography